The verdict in three sentences
A custom TMS for a carrier in Amsterdam sits between 40,000 and 90,000 EUR depending on complexity (route optimization, e-CMR, billing, GPS tracking). The most tangible gain is route optimization, targeting -12% empty kilometers and hitting fuel directly. Expect a 6 to 9 month timeline for a production version linked to your fleet.
The scope of a carrier TMS
A TMS coordinates the full cycle: order intake, planning, vehicle/driver assignment, optimization, GPS tracking, e-CMR, proof of delivery and billing. Custom lets you match your flows (parcel, full-load, refrigerated, ADR) rather than bending your business to standard software.
| Module | Function | Indicative timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Transport orders | Entry, customer EDI | 4-6 weeks |
| Route planning | Assignment, constraints | 5-7 weeks |
| Optimization | Empty-km reduction | 6-8 weeks |
| GPS tracking + e-CMR | Position, proof of delivery | 5-7 weeks |
| Billing | Pricing, flat rates | 5-6 weeks |
| Shipper portal | Real-time tracking | 4-5 weeks |
SaaS vs custom: cost and gains
The choice depends on route volume and the need for fine optimization. Here is a 2026 order of magnitude for a 20-vehicle fleet.
| Item | SaaS TMS | Custom Kolonell |
|---|---|---|
| Setup | 3,000-8,000 EUR | 40,000-90,000 EUR |
| Subscription | 40-70 EUR/vehicle/month | Hosting 200-400 EUR/month |
| SaaS year 1 (20 veh.) | ~15,000-18,000 EUR | ~55,000 EUR |
| Route optimization | Standard | Custom (own rules) |
| e-CMR | Often optional | Included |
| Year 3 cost (cumulative) | ~40,000-48,000 EUR | ~62,000-68,000 EUR |
| Code ownership | No | Yes |
Fuel savings tip the equation: on a fleet covering 1.4M km/year at a full cost of ~0.45 EUR/km, -12% empty km represents an order of magnitude of tens of thousands of euros/year.
Mini case study
Karim, head of a 20-vehicle transport firm in Amsterdam, covers about 1.4M km/year, of which 28% empty. His full cost per km is 0.45 EUR/km, an annual running budget near 630,000 EUR.
By bringing the empty-km rate from 28% to 22% (a -12% relative cut in overall empty running through better optimization), he saves about 84,000 km/year, worth ~38,000 EUR/year in avoided cost. A custom TMS at 62,000 EUR is thus amortized in under 24 months on fuel alone, before any billing gains or reduced e-CMR disputes.
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FAQ
Does the TMS really optimize routes?
Yes, optimization folds in your real constraints (time windows, capacities, tonnage, ADR, refrigerated) to cut empty km and vehicles used. A typical target is -10 to -15% empty km depending on flow structure.
Is e-CMR handled?
Yes, the electronic consignment note (e-CMR) and proof of delivery are included in custom. They cut disputes and speed billing by removing the wait for paper CMRs.
Can we connect the TMS to customers via EDI?
Yes, we integrate your shippers' EDI or API flows to receive orders and return statuses, removing re-entry and improving delivery reliability.
What is the implementation timeline?
Expect 6 to 9 months for a full TMS. A first version (orders + planning + tracking) can ship in 4 to 5 months for a phased start.
Is GPS tracking real-time?
Yes, vehicle positions stream in real time via telematics units, and a shipper portal lets your customers track deliveries without calling you.
Let's scope your project. Specify your fleet size, flow types (parcel, full-load, refrigerated, ADR) and indicative budget: we will frame the scope and optimization. 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.
