Top 10 Best Supply Chain Visibility Software in 2024
Supply chain visibility software is essential for businesses that need to track shipments, optimize operations, and stay ahead of potential disruptions. With real-time insights, these tools help reduce delays, minimize errors, and improve decision-making.
This blog highlights the top 10 supply chain visibility software solutions of 2024, each designed to enhance transparency, streamline workflows, and boost efficiency in a fast-paced market.
Criteria to Select The Best Supply Chain Visibility Software
When choosing the best supply chain visibility software, several key factors ensure the platform’s effectiveness and suitability for your business. Here’s what we considered:
- Real-time tracking capabilities: The ability to monitor shipments across multiple transportation modes is essential for visibility and proactive decision-making.
- Integration with existing systems: We prioritized platforms that easily integrate with other business tools like ERP, TMS, and WMS for seamless operations.
- User-friendly interface: The software should be intuitive and easy to use, reducing the time required for training and adoption.
- Scalability: The software should accommodate both current and future business needs, ensuring long-term value as your company grows.
- Customization options: Flexibility in features and configurations is crucial to meet specific business requirements.
- Support and training: Platforms offering reliable customer support and training resources ensure smooth implementation and ongoing success.
These criteria ensure the software not only meets immediate needs but also supports business growth and operational efficiency.
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Top 10 Real-Time Supply Chain Visibility Software
Software | Best For | Pros | Cons |
GoComet | Businesses of all sizes looking for an all-in-one solution with real-time visibility across all transportation modes. | – End-to-end shipment visibility with multi-modal tracking. – Actionable insights and data analytics to improve decision-making. – Streamlined communication and collaboration among stakeholders. | – Limited small carrier integration. |
FourKites | Enterprises with complex global supply chains requiring visibility and predictive analytics. | – Accurate live tracking with 95% shipment tracking accuracy. – Centralized data for easy access to important logistics information. – Clear and simple interface with a wealth of easily locatable data. | – Reporting tools are overwhelming and difficult to navigate. – Lacks personalized insights based on recurring customer or vendor relationships. |
Descartes MacroPoint | Businesses that need global trade management functionalities in addition to supply chain visibility. | – Quick access to organized, user-friendly information. – Innovative features for better customer insights. – Excellent, responsive customer support. | – Cannot duplicate multiple loads at once. – Cluttered interface with too many tabs. |
Shippeo | Businesses looking for a user-friendly platform with a focus on delivery tracking and improved customer service. | – Easy-to-use platform with intuitive dashboards and reporting tools. – Accurate ETAs and proactive exception management. – Strong carrier integrations for improved communication. | – May lack some of the advanced features of enterprise-level solutions. – Scalability may be limited for very large businesses. |
Project44 | Large enterprises with high-volume shipments requiring robust visibility and optimization tools. | – Scalable solution for managing complex logistics networks. – Advanced systems for optimizing transportation costs and carrier selection. – Strong integration with other transportation management systems (TMS). | – Can be expensive to implement and maintain. – May require significant IT resources. |
Overhaul | Businesses looking for a cloud-based platform with a focus on collaborative supply chain management. | – Visibility with multi-modal tracking and shipment status updates. – Streamlined communication tools for connecting with suppliers and vendors. – Easy-to-use interface with mobile app capabilities. | – May lack some of the advanced capabilities of more expensive solutions. – Reporting functionalities may be limited. |
Oracle Cloud SCM | Large enterprises with existing Oracle ERP systems seeking integrated supply chain visibility. | – Deep integration with other Oracle applications for a unified view of the supply chain. – Visibility with tracking and advanced data. – Scalable solution for managing global logistics operations. | – High upfront cost and implementation complexity. – Requires significant IT expertise to maintain. |
SAP Integrated Business Planning (IBP) | Enterprises with complex supply chains requiring integrated planning and visibility functionalities. | – Connects supply chain visibility data with demand forecasting and production planning. – Enables proactive risk management and scenario planning. – Integrates with other SAP solutions for a holistic view of the business. | – High upfront cost and implementation complexity. – May require significant IT expertise to configure and maintain. |
Infor Nexus | Businesses looking for a cloud-based platform with a focus on network visibility and collaboration. | – Visibility of inventory levels and shipment movements across the supply network. – Streamlined communication platform for connecting with trading partners. – Strong integration with other Infor solutions. | – May lack some of the advanced features of enterprise-level solutions. – Scalability may be limited for very large businesses. |
Blue Yonder | Enterprises with complex supply chains requiring advanced demand forecasting and visibility functionalities. | – Machine learning-powered platform for predicting demand fluctuations and supply chain issues. – Visibility with tracking and exception management. – Strong integration with other supply chain management systems. | – Can be expensive to implement and maintain. – May require significant data science expertise to leverage advanced features. |
1. GoComet
GoComet is an AI-powered cloud-based supply chain visibility software designed to simplify and optimize logistics management. It provides businesses with real-time shipment tracking, allowing users to monitor their cargo across all modes of transportation, including sea, road, air, and rail. The platform is particularly well-suited for companies seeking cost-effective yet powerful solutions to streamline supply chain operations.
GoComet’s intuitive interface ensures ease of use for teams with varying levels of technical expertise. Its emphasis on automation minimizes manual effort, enhancing operational efficiency. Additionally, its ability to integrate seamlessly with existing enterprise systems makes it an adaptable solution for businesses of all sizes.
Key Features:
- Real-Time Shipment Tracking: Track shipments in real-time with automated updates and accurate data, ensuring timely notifications and full visibility throughout the journey.
- End-to-End Process Visibility: Gain complete visibility into the logistics process, from shipment tracking to milestone monitoring, ensuring smooth coordination across all stakeholders.
- AI-Powered Optimization: Use AI to streamline logistics operations, automate tasks, and provide predictive ETAs, improving efficiency and reducing costs.
- Consignee Dashboard & Notifications: Access a dedicated dashboard for consignees with automated notifications to keep all stakeholders informed of key milestones and delays.
Limitations:
- Road Tracking Limitations: The platform’s road tracking features are less robust compared to its functionality for other transport modes, which may hinder end-to-end visibility for road shipments.
- No SKU-Level Tracking: The platform lacks SKU-level tracking, limiting visibility into the movement and status of individual stock-keeping units within larger shipments.
Ratings:
G2: 4.8/5
Gartner: 4.9/5
Testimonials:
“We have been using GoComet for a year and a half now and we love it. They offer unique features like Predictive ETA, bulk upload of trackings, real-time vessel tracking, Demurrage and Detention information, and much more. With all these features, the platform is still easy to use and understand. Their team is also very supportive and addresses any doubts we have efficiently and promptly.”
2. FourKites
FourKites offers supply chain visibility software that excels in predictive analytics and proactive management of shipments. It extends beyond transportation, covering yards, warehouses, and stores to provide end-to-end visibility. Its AI-powered capabilities enable businesses to anticipate disruptions, helping them respond faster to potential issues.
With a focus on global connectivity, FourKites integrates real-time data across various shipment modes. This ensures comprehensive monitoring and better coordination between stakeholders, which is especially beneficial for enterprises managing complex supply chains. The platform’s scalability makes it a reliable choice for growing businesses.
Key Features:
- Predictive Analytics: Leverage AI-driven insights to predict delays, identify bottlenecks, and proactively optimize logistics operations for smoother workflows.
- End-to-End Visibility: Monitor transportation, yards, warehouses, and stores in real-time, ensuring seamless tracking across the entire supply chain.
- Customizable Dashboards: Create tailored dashboards to focus on key metrics, enabling precise monitoring and quicker decision-making.
- Multi-Mode Shipment Tracking & Optimization: Track and optimize shipments across multiple transportation modes, ensuring seamless coordination and improved efficiency from start to finish.
Limitations:
- Training required: Users may need some time to familiarize themselves with the platform.
- Variable implementation time: Setup duration can vary based on integration needs and system complexity.
Ratings:
G2: 4.5/5
Gartner: 4.5/5
Testimonials:
“This is a great tool in first place which gives the live tracking and estimates the arrival based on current globcal situation. from my past experience of 6months using this tool, i can say its accuracy is 95% while tracking the shipments which is outstanding in the current global issues we are in. I like to have more insights based on user requirements like if the customer is receiving the material from same vendor again and again it should give him the details on his dashbaord without him checking.”
3. Descartes MacroPoint
Descartes MacroPoint specializes in providing global freight visibility and trade compliance tools. This software is ideal for businesses managing large-scale international shipments and complex logistics networks. Its integration with trade management solutions ensures seamless handling of customs and regulatory compliance.
Descartes MacroPoint’s visibility capabilities include multimodal tracking and predictive alerts for potential delays. The platform also facilitates better collaboration by connecting shippers, carriers, and consignees, enabling efficient management of supply chain workflows.
Key Features:
- Order Automation: Streamlines order entry to minimize errors and accelerate processing, improving overall efficiency.
- Real-Time Shipment Tracking: Provides up-to-the-minute tracking of shipments, ensuring full visibility throughout the transportation process.
- Carrier Management: Centralizes carrier details, rates, and performance metrics for easy access and improved decision-making.
- Invoicing & Reporting Tools: Offers comprehensive invoicing and reporting features, simplifying financial management and data analysis.
Limitations:
- Manual Load Entry: The system only supports duplicating one load at a time, which slows down the process of entering multiple loads. Enabling bulk load duplication would improve efficiency.
- Cluttered Interface: The interface has too many tabs, which can overwhelm users and slow navigation. Streamlining the layout by reducing the number of tabs would enhance usability.
Ratings:
G2: 4.6/5
Gartner: 4/5
Testimonials:
“Its precise and fast to understand, You can track the shippment. Interface, can be adjusted to be more user friendly. I wish I could duplicate multiple loads at once instead of just one at a time. If this could be changed, it would help me save time when entering loads into the system.”
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4. Shippeo
Shippeo is a supply chain visibility software that emphasizes customer-centric delivery tracking. It provides real-time updates on shipments, helping businesses maintain transparency with their customers. Its easy-to-use interface ensures a smooth onboarding experience for teams.
The platform’s delivery tracking focuses on accuracy, offering precise ETAs and proactive exception handling. Shippeo is particularly effective for businesses aiming to improve their customer service by ensuring timely and reliable delivery updates.
Key Features:
- Real-Time Tracking: Delivers accurate, real-time updates on delivery status and estimated arrival times (ETAs), ensuring you stay informed throughout the shipment journey.
- Seamless Carrier Integrations: Simplifies communication and data sharing with logistics partners by connecting with multiple carriers, enhancing collaboration and streamlining operations.
- User-Friendly Interface: Features an intuitive design that allows for easy navigation and quick adoption, enabling users to efficiently manage shipments with minimal training.
Limitations:
- Delayed Support and Communication: Support responses are often delayed, requiring follow-ups, and there is a lack of proactive communication from account managers, leading to potential inefficiencies.
- Customization Limitations: The platform offers limited customization to adapt to specific business needs, making it challenging to align with unique workflows.
Ratings:
G2: 4.7/5
Gartner: 4.8/5
Testimonials:
“Analysis tool very clear. Useful tool to provide real time feedback to customers. Not possible to overwrite some information from database (sometimes we need to manage some exceptions as Geocodes, time windows).”
5. Project44
Project44 is tailored for enterprises handling high shipment volumes. It provides advanced visibility solutions, automating manual processes and enhancing logistics efficiency. The software’s strength lies in its ability to handle large, complex supply chain networks while delivering actionable insights to optimize transportation.
The platform supports seamless integration with transportation management systems, enabling businesses to centralize their logistics operations. Project44 is particularly valued for its robust data accuracy and reliability, making it a trusted choice for global enterprises.
Key Features:
- Predictive Insights: Leverages machine learning to provide accurate delivery time predictions and identify potential delays, enabling proactive decision-making and improved operational efficiency.
- Effortless Carrier Onboarding: Streamlines the carrier onboarding process with the Onboarding Automation Center, ensuring 90% of carriers are integrated and operational within 30 days, minimizing setup delays.
- CO2 Emissions Monitoring: Tracks and calculates carbon emissions for all shipments, empowering businesses to implement sustainable logistics strategies and meet environmental goals.
Limitations:
- Delayed Support: Support responses are often slow, requiring follow-ups, and account managers lack proactive communication, impacting issue resolution.
- Complex Setup Process: Onboarding for ocean and road transport demands workflow adjustments, causing delays and unmet expectations.
Ratings:
G2: 4.7/5
Gartner: 4.8/5
Testimonials:
“It clearly give exact picture of our shiment status. Some shippling does not seen that must be covered.”
6. Overhaul
Overhaul is a visibility platform focused on risk management, compliance, and collaboration in supply chains. It provides a cloud-based environment where businesses can monitor and mitigate risks while maintaining clear communication with stakeholders.
The platform stands out for its ability to consolidate shipment data and provide actionable updates in real time. Its mobile accessibility ensures teams stay informed even while on the move, making Overhaul a practical choice for businesses prioritizing operational flexibility.
Key Features:
- Risk Management Tools: Proactively detects and mitigates risks like theft, delays, or route changes to protect shipments.
- Temperature and Time-Sensitive Monitoring: Tracks temperature-sensitive shipments and triggers alerts for quick action on delays.
- Collaborative Platform: Ensures seamless communication between all stakeholders, keeping everyone aligned and informed.
- Integrated Command Center: Centralizes operations with real-time insights like traffic and driver stops for better decision-making.
Limitations:
- Lack of Mobile App: Users cannot monitor shipments away from their computers as there is no dedicated app for mobile tracking .
- Limited Shipping Features: The platform lacks support for rail (train) shipments, does not verify peripheral readiness before shipping, and does not offer white-glove technical support .
Ratings:
G2: 4.6/5
Gartner: 4.7/5
Testimonials:
“Overhaul has a great product and support team behind it, however I have found the level of quality between each support office varies. Overhaul has recently expanded into some new territories adding support teams, however it seems these teams may not be quite as up to speed on all the proper procedures as some of the older offices.”
7. Oracle Cloud SCM
Oracle Cloud SCM integrates supply chain visibility into its broader suite of enterprise resource planning tools. It is ideal for businesses looking to unify logistics operations with other core business functions. The platform supports digital transformation with IoT-enabled applications and blockchain for enhanced data accuracy.
This software is particularly effective for organizations with global operations, offering tools to manage inventory, logistics, and fleet management seamlessly. Oracle Cloud SCM’s scalability ensures it can adapt to the growing demands of large enterprises.
Key Features:
- Predictive Analytics: Utilizes advanced analytics to identify risks and opportunities, enabling proactive decision-making.
- Real-Time Visibility & Transit Time Prediction: Leverages machine learning for accurate transit time predictions and up-to-date shipment visibility.
- Alternative Route & Carrier Insights: Provides insights into alternative routes and carriers to optimize shipping strategies.
- Global Shipment Optimization: Enables effective transportation planning and execution to optimize shipments across global networks.
Limitations:
- Complexity and Usability: Some features, like forecasting, are not intuitive, and users find it challenging to quickly become proficient with the system. Additionally, the local install requires configuration to work seamlessly with other environments.
- Slow Transition to Cloud: The focus has shifted toward their Cloud offering, which is still under development and lacks the full capabilities of the legacy system, causing usability and functionality gaps for current users.new system.
Ratings:
G2: 4.5/5
Gartner: 4.7/5
Testimonials:
“The information given, is useful but can be better the pages are no so intuitive. the grafics an the integration of the pages are not so great.”
8. SAP Integrated Business Planning
SAP IBP connects supply chain visibility with demand planning and forecasting, making it a powerful tool for integrated operations. It enables businesses to align inventory and production planning with real-time supply chain data, ensuring a synchronized approach to logistics.
The software’s planning capabilities allow users to anticipate risks and develop contingency plans. By integrating with other SAP tools, it offers businesses a unified platform to manage their supply chains effectively.
Key Features:
- Demand Forecasting: Aligns inventory and production with market demand, reducing overstocking and stockouts.
- Risk Anticipation: Identifies potential disruptions, enabling proactive adjustments to mitigate supply chain risks.
- SAP System Integration: Provides seamless integration with SAP, centralizing supply chain management for greater efficiency and data accuracy.
Limitations:
- High Initial Cost: Significant upfront investment required for setup and deployment, which could be a barrier for smaller businesses.
- Complex Setup: Demands extensive technical expertise for configuration and ongoing maintenance, which can lead to longer implementation times.
Ratings:
G2: 4.2/5
Gartner: 4.2/5
Testimonials:
“All is very excellent in SAP but the option for upgrading and enhancing performance are quite sophisticated and difficult to grasp, and little bit issue in customer service.”
9. Infor Nexus
Infor Nexus provides real-time visibility across the supply network while fostering collaboration among stakeholders. Its predictive intelligence uses AI and IoT to offer actionable insights, helping businesses optimize their supply chain performance.
The platform’s focus on end-to-end orchestration ensures that every part of the supply chain, from suppliers to customers, is connected. Infor Nexus also supports easy integration with existing systems, making it a flexible solution for enterprises with diverse operational needs.
Key Features:
- Real-Time Visibility: Provides up-to-the-minute tracking of inventory and shipments across your entire supply chain, ensuring accurate status updates and enabling timely interventions.
- Predictive Intelligence: Leverages AI and IoT technology to optimize operations, forecast potential disruptions, and suggest adjustments to improve supply chain efficiency.
- Collaboration Tools: Facilitates seamless communication with suppliers and partners, enhancing coordination and decision-making throughout the supply chain.
Limitations:
- Scalability Issues: May not effectively handle the complexities of large-scale operations, which can limit growth for enterprise-level companies.
- Limited Advanced Features: Lacks some of the high-end functionalities and customizations available in more advanced solutions, potentially limiting its adaptability for complex needs.
Ratings:
G2: 4/5
Gartner: 4.2/5
Testimonials:
“The UI is very helpful to understand event for an ordinary person who is not from the IT Background. A lot more new features such as logistics visibility could be added on in the factory user login too.”
10. Blue Yonder
Blue Yonder combines AI and machine learning to provide advanced demand forecasting and supply chain visibility. It is designed for businesses needing precise control over inventory and logistics operations.
The platform’s strength lies in its ability to integrate seamlessly with other supply chain management systems. Blue Yonder also prioritizes sustainability by offering tools to track environmental metrics, making it a forward-thinking choice for businesses aiming to meet modern operational standards.
Key Features:
- AI-Powered Demand Planning: Uses machine learning to predict demand accurately, optimizing inventory and reducing stockouts or overstocking.
- Exception Management: Automatically identifies and addresses supply chain disruptions, enabling faster response and minimizing operational impact.
- Environmental Tracking: Tracks key sustainability metrics, helping businesses monitor and improve their environmental impact for responsible operations.
Limitations:
- Limited Support for Customization: There is a lack of robust customization options to fully align the system with specific business needs, which can hinder flexibility .
- Integration Issues Across Systems: While the platform is highly capable, integration with other Oracle systems can be challenging, requiring additional effort for seamless operation across different products .
Ratings:
G2: 4.5/5
Gartner: 4.5/5
Testimonials:
“The possibility of segmenting work, controlling traffic in aisles without equipment and people congestion to mitigate accidents, and traceability of inventory, equipment and workers. On some occasions, the use of the filters on the screens is not so clear or even does not act to filter the records. Some dashboards should expose more information so that inventory tracking is easier.”
Conclusion
Transportation visibility is now even more crucial given all the changes brought about by the post-Covid-19 environment. Due to the ecosystem’s rapid evolution, global supply chain visibility is becoming a “core feature” that suppliers, manufacturers, carriers, and software vendors must have.
FAQs
1. Is an AI-powered visibility platform suitable for all businesses?
Yes, it benefits businesses of all sizes and industries, enhancing operations, customer satisfaction, and profitability. Whether you’re dealing with supply chains or managing a logistics network, these platforms provide the necessary tools to optimize performance.
2. What are the requirements for implementing supply chain visibility tools?
Implementation typically includes installation, configuration, data integration, and user training. Providers often offer support to ensure a smooth transition. This software can integrate with ERP systems and other visibility tools to streamline processes.
3. How can I determine if my business needs a visibility solutions?
If you experience issues with supply chain performance, inventory management, or transportation visibility, a visibility tool can help. These platforms are especially beneficial if you have a supply chain or need to manage a supply chain control tower.
4. Can this software assist with compliance and regulatory needs?
Yes, it ensures compliance by providing accurate data and documentation for audits and reports, maintaining traceability across the supply chain. This is crucial for businesses needing to adhere to strict regulatory standards and optimize supply chain operations.
5. Is integration with external partners possible?
Yes, visibility software solutions with API integration capabilities can integrate with partners and suppliers, enhancing collaboration and data sharing throughout your supply chain. This integration supports warehouse management and data exchange.
6. Does the software offer alerts and notifications?
Yes, it provides data alerts for issues like shipment delays or stockouts, enabling proactive decisions and actionable insights. These features are critical for managing disruptions and maintaining efficient logistics.
7. Can sustainability and environmental metrics be tracked?
Yes, some platforms track metrics such as carbon emissions and energy consumption, aiding in environmental compliance. Tracking these metrics helps businesses meet sustainability goals and improve overall supply chain planning.
8. Is the platform scalable for growth?
Yes, it can scale with your business, handling increased data volumes, supporting additional users, and optimizing supply chain operations. This scalability ensures that the platform can grow alongside your business needs.
9. Can the software be accessed on mobile devices?
Yes, our solutions have mobile apps or responsive interfaces for real time access and decision-making, even when users are away from their desks. This mobility enhances the flexibility and responsiveness of supply chain management.
10. What analytics and reporting capabilities are available?
Visibility platforms offer dashboards, customizable reports, data visualization tools, and predictive analytics, providing supply chain planning insights and optimization. These tools support better decision-making and strategic planning.
11. How does it manage supply chain disruptions and risks?
By providing visibility and a supply chain control tower, it helps identify risks, develop contingency plans, and mitigate disruptions through effective communication and collaboration. This proactive approach reduces the impact of unforeseen issues.
12. Can visibility platforms aid in demand planning and forecasting?
Yes, these platforms offer analytics that support supply chain planning by analyzing historical data, market trends, and customer demand patterns, optimizing inventory levels. This ensures that businesses can meet demand without overstocking.
13. What are the benefits of using a supply chain visibility software?
A visibility platform offers numerous benefits, including improved supply chain performance, enhanced collaboration, data insights, and better compliance with regulatory requirements. It also supports optimization and efficiency throughout the supply chain network.
14. How do visibility tools integrate with existing systems?
Supply Chain Visibility Software can integrate with ERP systems, warehouse management solutions, and other software tools to provide a comprehensive view of the supply chain. This integration enhances data accuracy and streamlines operations across the entire supply chain.
15. What kind of data can a global visibility platform handle?
A global visibility platform can handle various data types, including real-time transportation data, inventory levels, and performance metrics. This data supports strategic decision-making and operational efficiency across international supply chains.