The verdict in three sentences
A useful logistics app covers three functions: job assignment, real-time GPS tracking and proof of delivery (photo/signature). Route optimisation cuts kilometres by 15-25 % — and therefore fuel — while proof of delivery drops disputes by 40 %. The choice is between WhatsApp + spreadsheet, a field driver app and a full TMS.
Three levels: spreadsheet, driver app, TMS
WhatsApp + spreadsheet works at small scale but collapses beyond a few drivers: manual dispatch, no traceability, frequent disputes. The field app gives the driver their jobs, navigation and proof of delivery. The full TMS adds automatic assignment, route optimisation and automated driver payment.
| Solution | Upfront cost | Recurring fees | Fuel saving | Dispute reduction |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WhatsApp + spreadsheet | ~0 FCFA | ~0 FCFA | Baseline | Baseline |
| Field driver app | 1,500,000 – 3,500,000 FCFA | 40,000 – 120,000 FCFA/mo | -8 to 15 % | -25 % |
| Full TMS | 3,000,000 – 8,000,000 FCFA | Maintenance 100,000 – 300,000 FCFA/mo | -15 to 25 % | -40 % |
What the TMS changes on the ground
Fewer kilometres, fewer disputes, faster dispatch: the gain shows on four operational lines.
| Metric | Before (spreadsheet) | After TMS |
|---|---|---|
| Kilometres driven | Baseline | -15 to -25 % |
| Delivery disputes | Baseline | -40 % |
| Dispatch time | Manual | -30 % (auto assignment) |
| Proof of delivery | None | Photo + signature |
| Customer tracking | Calls | Real-time GPS |
| Driver payment | Manual | Automated |
Mini case study
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Grace, who runs a delivery company in Nairobi, operates 8 vehicles covering 1,200 km/day at a fuel cost of 120 FCFA/km, i.e. 144,000 FCFA/day. After a 5,000,000 FCFA TMS, route optimisation cuts kilometres by 20 %, saving 28,800 FCFA/day in fuel. Add the 40 % drop in disputes (redelivery and refunds avoided, ~15,000 FCFA/day) and the daily gain nears 43,000 FCFA. Over 26 days that is more than 1,100,000 FCFA/month: the investment pays back in a little over four months.
FAQ
Is route optimisation worth a TMS? Yes: cutting kilometres by 15-25 % attacks fuel, the number-one cost line. For a fleet of several vehicles, the monthly saving quickly exceeds the software's maintenance.
Does proof of delivery really cut disputes? Yes: a timestamped photo and recipient signature drop disputes by 40 %. You avoid redeliveries and contested refunds while reassuring your B2B customers.
Can drivers be paid automatically? Yes, a TMS links validated deliveries to mobile money payment (M-Pesa, MTN MoMo). The driver is paid on proven jobs, with no manual calculation or dispute.
Do we need a TMS from day one? No: a field driver app (1.5 – 3.5M FCFA) is enough to trace deliveries and cut disputes by 25 %. You move to the full TMS when job volume justifies automatic assignment.
Become a Kolonell referral partner
Do you know carriers, couriers or distributors to digitise? Our referral partner programme pays for every completed project: 15 % + 5 % recurring on a showcase site, 12 % on e-commerce, 10 % on marketplace, 8 % on institutional.
Let's talk about your project. We'll price your TMS and its fuel savings within 48 hours. 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.
