The verdict in three sentences
A custom TMS in Rotterdam runs between 50,000 and 120,000 EUR in 2026, versus 8,000 to 30,000 EUR/year for an off-the-shelf SaaS. The return on investment comes from route optimization, which cuts fuel and empty kilometers by a documented 12%. Expect a 6-to-8-month timeline from scoping to production, driver app and customer EDI included.
What a TMS budget covers
A TMS is more than a truck planner. It orchestrates transport orders, route assignment, real-time tracking, proof of delivery and customer invoicing. Each block has its own cost and can be activated in stages.
| Module | 2026 range (EUR) | Indicative timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Core TMS (orders, planning, billing) | 30,000 - 60,000 | 3 - 4 months |
| Route optimization | 12,000 | 4 - 6 weeks |
| Driver app (mobile + POD) | 8,000 | 4 - 6 weeks |
| Customer EDI (data exchange) | 6,000 | 3 - 5 weeks |
| Customer portal (shipment tracking) | 7,000 | 3 - 4 weeks |
| Accounting / ERP integration | 9,000 | 4 - 6 weeks |
| Dashboards and KPIs | 5,000 | 2 - 3 weeks |
A regional carrier usually launches the core plus route optimization and the driver app, roughly 50,000 EUR. Large accounts add EDI, portal and ERP integration and climb toward 110,000 - 120,000 EUR.
Custom vs off-the-shelf
Market TMS products start fast but bill per user and per module. Custom costs more upfront but pays off once the fleet exceeds 15 to 20 vehicles and business rules are specific.
| Criterion | Market SaaS | Custom TMS |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront cost | 3,000 - 10,000 EUR | 50,000 - 120,000 EUR |
| Recurring cost | 8,000 - 30,000 EUR/yr | Hosting + maintenance 6,000 - 14,000 EUR/yr |
| Specific business rules | Limited | Unlimited |
| Code ownership | No | Yes |
| Time to launch | 1 - 3 months | 6 - 8 months |
| Fine route optimization | Standard | On your real constraints |
Mini case study
Sarah, COO of a logistics firm in Rotterdam, runs 22 heavy trucks averaging 180,000 km/year each. Her annual fuel cost is around 1,100,000 EUR. A 12% cut from route optimization means 132,000 EUR saved per year. With a TMS investment of 58,000 EUR amortized over 3 years (about 19,300 EUR/year) plus 9,000 EUR maintenance, the net gain exceeds 100,000 EUR in year one, before counting fewer empty kilometers and the admin time saved on billing.
FAQ
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What is the entry price for a first TMS in Rotterdam in 2026?
Around 50,000 EUR for the core, route optimization and the driver app. That is the typical scope for a 15-to-25-vehicle carrier chasing quick fuel savings.
How long to deploy a full TMS?
Between 6 and 8 months depending on integrations. The core is usable within 3 to 4 months; EDI and the customer portal are added in later waves.
Is customer EDI really necessary?
As soon as you work with large shippers (retail, industry), the 6,000 EUR EDI removes double entry and secures orders. It pays for itself within a few months through admin time saved.
Is the -12% fuel figure guaranteed?
It is a 2026 order of magnitude seen on regional fleets after route optimization. The real gain depends on the density of your delivery points and the quality of your address data.
Can we start small and scale?
Yes. We deliver the core and optimization first, then plug in EDI, portal and ERP in stages. This smooths the budget and lets you measure ROI at each step.
Let's scope your project. Tell us your fleet size, your customer integrations (EDI, ERP) and your target budget between 50,000 and 120,000 EUR. 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.
