12 Best Route Optimization Software Solutions
Explore the top 12 route optimization software tools to streamline delivery operations. Compare features, pricing, pros, and cons to find the perfect solution for your logistics needs.
Route optimization software is transforming the landscape of logistical operations across various industries. For the seamless execution of delivery services, this software has become indispensable to professionals in logistics, delivery services, and beyond.
From ensuring on-time deliveries to optimizing vehicle capacities and driver schedules, route optimization software eliminates the guesswork and complexity of planning routes manually. It not only saves time and fuel but also allows teams to focus on scaling their operations and delivering exceptional service.
In this blog, we’ll explore 12 of the best route optimization software solutions available today. We’ll highlight their key features, pricing, pros, and cons to help you choose the ideal platform for your unique needs.
12 Best Route Optimization Software
1. SmartRoutes
SmartRoutes is an end-to-end logistics planning and management platform. With SmartRoutes, logistics teams can create optimized routes, capture PODs, automate notifications and track fleets all from one platform.
Features include:
- Effortless file upload via Excel or .CSV formats or seamless integration utilizing Open API, Webhooks, and pre-built connections like Shopify, WooCommerce and Zapier.
- Add custom parameters such as load balancing, vehicle capacities, default stop times (applicable for fleet-wide or individual vehicles), and additional customizable settings.
- Establish delivery zones or territories and allocate vehicles accordingly, ensuring automated assignment of deliveries to drivers within designated areas.
- Strategically plan and dispatch routes in advance, providing drivers with comprehensive schedules in advance for better preparedness.
- Dedicated delivery driver app facilitating easy capture of proof of delivery through various mediums like photos, e-signatures, and barcode scans. Additionally, drivers can mark completed deliveries (with recorded locations for administrative review), input delivery notes, and cite reasons for failed deliveries (accessible via reports).
- Pre and post-delivery notifications equipped with precise Estimated Time of Arrivals (ETAs) and live tracking links.
Price: starts at €26 / month
Free trial: 7 day free trial available
SmartRoutes Route Optimization Software
Streamline your entire delivery process, all from one platform
2. Zeo Route Planner
Zeo Route Planner offers a straightforward route planning solution designed for drivers, logistics managers, courier companies, and small businesses. Trusted by more than 800,000 drivers across 150 countries, its iOS and Android mobile apps cater to individual delivery drivers, while the web-based login accommodates both single drivers and entire fleets.
Pros:
- Offers a free plan allowing up to 15 stops per route (which surpasses Google Maps by 5 stops), making it an attractive option for companies needing more stops without opting for complex solutions.
- User-friendly interface.
- Suitable for individual drivers.
Cons:
- Zeo’s pricing is quite complicated with premium package information only available if you go to upgrade your account
- Reports of delayed responses to support queries and answering queries that weren’t raised.
- Customer-reported issues regarding data upload.
Price: starts at €34.99 / month per ‘seat’
Free trial: No free trial. They have a free subscription which they recommend you use to try out before purchasing.
3. DispatchTrack
DispatchTrack employs a sophisticated routing engine that generates highly efficient routes and offers precise time windows down to the minute. It handles the optimization and routing of thousands of stops daily and possesses the capability to swiftly reload, reroute, and replan entire schedules within seconds.
Pros:
- Real-time tracking for both packages and vehicles.
- Simplified setup process.
- Enables two-way communication with customers.
Cons:
- Routes can’t be adjusted after optimized
- Occasional user reports of being unexpectedly logged out of the app, leading to difficulties in re-accessing.
- Complexities in adding photo Proof of Delivery (POD) within the app and inability to delete and retake photos.
- Limited availability of training materials for new users.
Price: only available on request
Free Trial: not available
4. Track-POD
Track-POD represents an advanced delivery management software that incorporates an electronic proof of delivery application, a mobile solution for real-time monitoring of driver performance, and confirmation of deliveries. This paperless delivery system functions as efficient route planning software, enabling the arrangement of multiple deliveries within seconds. Additionally, the mobile app doubles as a QR/Barcode scanner for load control purposes.
Pros:
- Intuitive interface and straightforward setup process.
- Accessible support team.
Cons:
- Route optimization isn't included in their base plan, making it a costly option for users seeking this feature.
- Customers have noted significant disparities between the IOS and Android versions of the driver app.
Price: $35 / month
Free Trial: 7 day free trial available
5. Circuit
Circuit for Teams stands as an advanced route mapping solution designed to confidently plan, track, and manage delivery operations without the necessity for maps, local area expertise, or technical proficiency. It streamlines tasks, saving considerable time each day.
Pros:
- User-friendly interface with customizable features.
- Offers a 14-day trial period for users to explore its functionalities.
- Regularly introduces new features and improvements.
Cons:
- Some customers express a preference for either separating Circuit Route Planner and Circuit for Teams into distinct brands to avoid confusion, or integrating them for a seamless experience.
- Lack of tracking if drivers deviate from the planned route.
- Limited features until more expensive plan (which are also limited by stops)
Price: starts at $100 / month
Free Trial: 14 day trial available
6. Route4Me
Route4Me offers a robust, user-friendly route optimization software designed for businesses of all sizes. With the capability to optimize routes for fleets of any size, it helps businesses save time, reduce fuel consumption, and increase efficiency.
Features include:
- Multi-stop route optimization.
- Customizable settings for time windows, vehicle capacities, and driving hours.
- Real-time tracking and live ETA updates for customers.
- Integration with various CRM tools, including Salesforce, HubSpot, and QuickBooks.
- Detailed reporting on fleet performance and driver productivity.
Pros:
- Easy-to-use interface that’s intuitive for both small businesses and large fleets.
- Quick setup with a cloud-based platform that works across all devices.
Cons:
- Pricing can be higher compared to other solutions, especially for smaller teams.
- Some users have noted that the mobile app occasionally lags in updating delivery statuses.
Price: Starts at $200 per month (includes 5 users)
Free Trial: 7-day free trial available
7. Upper
Upper is a route planning and optimization software that focuses on delivering simplicity and efficiency for delivery drivers and fleet managers. The tool is designed to help companies find optimal routes while minimizing miles, time, and fuel consumption.
Features include:
- Intelligent route optimization based on real-time traffic and road conditions.
- Ability to manage multiple drivers and delivery routes simultaneously.
- Integration with Google Maps and navigation apps for easy on-the-road guidance.
- Support for customer notifications with updated ETAs and delivery statuses.
Pros:
- Supports route planning for up to 100 stops at a time.
- Ability to make last minute adjustments to routes.
Cons:
- Lacks some advanced analytics features available in more comprehensive solutions (for example, additional cost to add in-app navigation)
- Expensive for businesses needing more advanced features or larger fleets.
Price: Starts at $150 per month (includes 3 users)
Free Trial: 7-day free trial available
8. RoadWarrior
RoadWarrior is a route optimization software built specifically for delivery drivers, independent contractors, and small fleet operators. It is designed to help users plan and optimize their daily routes efficiently with minimal effort.
Features include:
- Optimizes routes with up to 200 stops.
- Easy-to-use mobile app with turn-by-turn navigation.
- Real-time tracking for delivery managers.
Pros:
- Simple interface with minimal learning curve.
- Offers an affordable pricing structure for small businesses.
Cons:
- Many essential features that are standard in other software solutions are offered as add-ons, which can increase the overall cost for businesses that require these features.
- Limited customization for larger fleet operations.
Price: Starts at $14.99 / month
Free Trial: 7-day free trial available
9. Onfleet
Onfleet is a comprehensive delivery management and route optimization solution that allows businesses to streamline their logistics operations. Known for its intuitive interface and powerful optimization algorithms, Onfleet is ideal for both local and nationwide deliveries.
Features include:
- Dynamic route optimization based on real-time data.
- Fleet management with real-time tracking, delivery status updates, and automated customer notifications.
- Integration with eCommerce platforms like Shopify and WooCommerce.
- Advanced reporting on delivery performance and driver efficiency.
Pros:
- User-friendly platform with excellent customer support.
- Strong mobile app that allows drivers to capture proof of delivery (POD).
Cons:
- Some customers report issues with data synchronization across devices.
- Can be expensive for small businesses with limited delivery needs.
Price: Starts at $550 / month
Free Trial: 14-day free trial available
10. OptimoRoute
OptimoRoute is a powerful and scalable route optimization software that helps businesses reduce operational costs by creating optimized routes for deliveries and service-based teams. It’s suitable for both small businesses and large enterprises.
Features include:
- Advanced algorithms that optimize delivery and service routes for multiple vehicles.
- Real-time tracking and updates on driver performance and delivery status.
- Integration with popular accounting and CRM platforms.
- Customizable settings to accommodate specific business needs like delivery windows and special requests.
Pros:
- Supports multi-day route optimization for complex delivery schedules.
- Excellent customer support and training resources.
Cons:
- Pricing is on the higher end, which may not be suitable for small businesses.
- The user interface could benefit from more intuitive design improvements.
Price: Starts at $39 / month
Free Trial: 30-day free trial available
11. FarEye
FarEye is a digital logistics platform that offers route optimization capabilities, along with other features like tracking, fleet management, and customer communications. It's designed to help businesses optimize their last-mile delivery processes.
Features include:
- Multi-stop route optimization for large fleets.
- Real-time tracking and predictive ETAs for customers.
- Detailed analytics and insights to help optimize operations.
- Integration with major ERP and eCommerce platforms.
Pros:
- Robust suite of features for large-scale enterprises.
- Provides in-depth analytics and performance reporting.
Cons:
- The platform can be overwhelming for smaller businesses or startups.
- Premium features may require significant additional investment.
Price: Pricing unavailable onsite
Free Trial: Not available
12. Routific
Routific is an efficient route optimization software that helps delivery teams save time, fuel, and costs. Known for its simple user interface and advanced algorithms, it’s designed for small to medium-sized businesses looking to optimize their delivery operations.
Features include:
- Multi-stop route optimization.
- Real-time tracking of deliveries and drivers.
- Automatic notifications and live updates for customers.
- Customizable route parameters like delivery time windows and vehicle capacity.
Pros:
- Affordable for small businesses and startups.
- Easy integration with third-party software and platforms.
Cons:
- Limited features, particularity in lower priced plans, compared to other solutions.
- Some reports of difficulty in adjusting routes once optimized.
Price: Starts at $49 / month
Free Trial: 7-day free trial available
Why SmartRoutes Leads the Way in Route Optimization
SmartRoutes stands out as a comprehensive, user-friendly, and feature-rich solution for businesses seeking to optimize their delivery operations. Its ability to dynamically adapt to real-world challenges, paired with powerful planning and tracking features, makes it a trusted choice for logistics teams worldwide.
But don’t just take our word for it—experience the difference yourself with a free 7-day trial. Explore its intuitive interface, discover its time-saving capabilities, and see how it can transform your logistical processes. SmartRoutes isn’t just a tool—it’s the key to streamlining your operations and driving efficiency for your business.
Frequently asked questions
1. What is route optimization software?
Route optimization software is a technology solution that employs advanced algorithms and data analytics to determine the most efficient routes for vehicles, delivery trucks, or field service agents. It takes into account various factors such as traffic conditions, vehicle capacity, and scheduling constraints to optimize routes and improve overall operational efficiency.
2. What’s the difference between route planning and route optimization?
Route planning refers to the process of manually or automatically mapping out routes for vehicles or deliveries. It typically involves determining stops and a general path for completing those stops. However, it does not necessarily consider real-time factors like traffic, weather, or time constraints.
Route optimization, on the other hand, uses advanced algorithms and real-time data to create the most efficient routes possible. It accounts for multiple variables, such as vehicle capacity, delivery time windows, driver schedules, and current traffic conditions. The goal is to minimize distance, time, and cost, while maximizing delivery efficiency.
3. What are the advantages and disadvantages of implementing route optimization software?
Advantages:
- Increased efficiency: Save time and fuel by identifying the most optimal routes.
- Cost savings: Reduce operational expenses, including fuel costs and vehicle wear and tear.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction: Provide accurate ETAs and timely deliveries, improving the customer experience.
- Real-time tracking: Monitor driver progress and adapt to changing conditions, such as traffic or weather.
Disadvantages:
- Learning curve: Teams may require time and training to fully utilize the software's capabilities.
- Customization limitations: Some software may lack flexibility for unique business needs, or require expensive add-ons to access critical features.
4. Does Google Maps have a route optimizer?
No, Google Maps does not provide true route optimization. While it allows you to input multiple stops, it will only sequence the stops in the order you provide and calculate the fastest path between each one. Google Maps does not reorder stops to create the most efficient overall route. Additionally, it does not account for critical factors like driver hours, mandatory breaks, vehicle capacities, or time-sensitive delivery windows.
Dedicated route optimization software can dynamically rearrange stops to minimize travel time and costs while considering these constraints.
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Michael Santry
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