The verdict in three sentences
Custom transport management software (TMS) represents 35,000 to 90,000 EUR in 2026, over a timeline of 14 to 22 weeks. Custom makes sense when your transport plan, billing rules and customer EDI flows are too specific for a generalist vendor. Key gains: -12 % kilometres through route optimisation and -20 % disputes thanks to tracking and proof of delivery.
The modules of a custom TMS
A TMS is only useful if it covers the full cycle: from transport order to invoicing. Here are the building blocks and their 2026 budget weight.
| Module | Function | Budget weight |
|---|---|---|
| Transport plan & orders | Order intake, assignment | 15 % |
| Route optimisation | Sequencing, constraints | 22 % |
| Real-time tracking | Position, ETA, statuses | 18 % |
| Proof of delivery (POD) | Signature, photo, dispute | 12 % |
| Transport invoicing | Rates, surcharges, credits | 18 % |
| EDI & customer connectors | Automated exchanges | 15 % |
A core of transport plan + optimisation + tracking ships around 35,000 EUR. A full TMS with multi-customer EDI and advanced invoicing approaches 90,000 EUR.
Custom build or market TMS vendor?
TMS vendors exist and are solid, but their per-user licence and pay-per-module pricing climb fast for a growing carrier.
| Criterion | TMS vendor | Custom build |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront cost | 5,000 - 20,000 EUR (setup) | 35,000 - 90,000 EUR |
| Annual cost | 8,000 - 30,000 EUR (licences) | Hosting + maintenance ~15 % |
| 4-year cost | 37,000 - 140,000 EUR | 55,000 - 130,000 EUR |
| Dedicated optimisation | Standard modules | Your constraints |
| Specific customer EDI | Often optional | Included |
| Extensibility | Vendor roadmap | Your roadmap |
Once you exceed about fifteen users and your customers impose their EDI formats, custom becomes competitive over 4 years, with code ownership as a bonus.
Mini case study
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Sophie, logistics director of a regional carrier in Lille, runs 25 trucks driving 2,200,000 km a year at a per-km cost of 0.95 EUR, i.e. 2,090,000 EUR of running cost. A TMS at 60,000 EUR that cuts km by 12 % saves ~250,000 EUR a year. Adding the drop in disputes (-20 % on 90,000 EUR of annual credits, i.e. 18,000 EUR), the tool pays back in less than 4 months of operation.
FAQ
Does a custom TMS really replace a well-known vendor?
Within your scope, yes: it covers the same core functions (routes, tracking, invoicing) while fitting your rules. The difference is that it carries no useless modules and belongs to you.
What gains should I expect from route optimisation?
A 2026 order of magnitude is 8 to 15 % fewer kilometres depending on flow density. On a 25-truck fleet, that quickly means several hundred thousand euros a year.
Can we connect our big customers' EDI?
Yes, it is a full module (about 15 % of the budget). Each customer format (EDIFACT, XML, API) is integrated to automate order intake and statuses.
How long to roll out across the whole fleet?
Expect 14 to 22 weeks. A pilot on a few trucks arrives around week 10, with full rollout and EDI following in waves.
Let's scope your project. Send us your number of vehicles, your customer EDI flows and your indicative budget. Detailed quote within 48 h. WhatsApp +221 77 596 93 33.
Mohamed Bah
Fondateur, Kolonell
Passionate about digital and entrepreneurship in Africa, Mohamed has been helping Sénégalese businesses with their digital transformation since 2020. Founder of Kolonell, he believes every SME deserves a professional and accessible online présence.
