Best Route Planning Software

Best route planning software includes Route4Me, Verizon Connect, RouteXL, Routific, and MyRouteOnline. Routing planning software automates those tasks once done via pen and paper by dispatchers, creating a more streamlined and efficient approach to routing.

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List of 20 Best Route Planning Software

Showing 1 - 20 of 58 products

Software by Onfleet

Quite popular in the food and beverage, logistics, and supply chain industries, Onfleet route planning software assists businesses in proficiently managing and analyzing their local delivery options. It has also been stated as the best overall route optimization software in 2023. It offers real-time location tracking and can manage unlimited drivers. Read Onfleet Reviews

Emergents | 2024

Fleet route planning & optimization software for SMBs

Route4Me is one of the best route optimization software programs that has helped several small business owners optimize all their routes in no time. The software is ideal for field service, field sales, field marketing, territory management, field merchandising, and every other business that needs last-mile route optimization. Learn more about Route4Me

Emergents | 2024

A powerful field service management software for SMBs

Verizon Connect is a powerful route planning software that is based on telematics. The software effectively finds cost-effective, optimal routes and helps reduce those extra miles on trips taken daily by your field service and delivery drivers. Verizon Connect Work efficiently plans multi-stop, functional routes for your business. Learn more about Verizon Connect

Emergents | 2024

Route optimization software for delivery businesses

When it comes to planning, optimizing, or dispatching routes, Routific gets the job done within minutes. This route optimization tool is trusted and preferred by a number of delivery businesses across the world. Thanks to the user-friendly interface of this tool, you can now make quick and prompt deliveries with a curtailed cost-per-delivery. Learn more about Routific

Emergents | 2024

Autonomous Dispatching and Routing software for operations

Wise Systems, an AI-driven GPS routing tool, is specifically designed to help you accomplish your toughest deliveries with efficiency and analytics. With Wise Systems at your service, you can transform your fleet to your drivers’ satisfaction, induce higher utilization of each delivery agent, and offer prompt deliveries.  Learn more about Wise Systems

Category Champions | 2024

With Tookan as your delivery mapping software, you can significantly modernize your day-to-day delivery options. With Tookan’s state-of-the-art tech suite, you get seamless integration between delivery drivers and managers. The software assists businesses in digitalizing last-mile delivery operations, tracking fleets and optimizing routes in real-time, and managing the workforce efficiently. Read Tookan Reviews

Contenders | 2024

Cloud-based delivery route planning & optimization solution

MyRouteOnline is one of the best route optimization software for businesses of all sizes. Thanks to this fully-featured software, you can optimize and plan routes for multiple locations in just three simple steps: uploading your address list, finding the best route, and exporting your routes via GPS or mobile to get a live map with all destinations. Read MyRouteOnline Reviews

Software by Octopusapp Inc

Jobber serves as the best routing software that assists businesses in creating a more productive schedule. Within seconds, Jobber plans and optimizes to generate the best, most fuel-efficient route for every member of your crew. To add to it, Jobber also lets you assign the deliveries to the closest team member in case of an emergency. Read Jobber Reviews

Contenders | 2024

Web-based route planning platform for individuals & agencies

With RouteXL route scheduling software assists in finding the best multi-stop routes for deliveries, pickups, and services. This feature-rich software helps you save a significant amount of time and fuel while lowering costs and emissions. RouteXL is one of the most user-friendly routing software you can find. Read RouteXL Reviews

Emergents | 2024

Web-based route planning platform for route planning

Ideal for delivery drivers, salespeople, or anyone who needs to make multiple stops, Speedy Route delivery mapping software works to reorder the entered locations to give you the best optimal order in a way such that you visit every location via the shortest and quickest possible means. Learn more about Speedy Route

Software by SimpliRoute

If you’re looking for efficient route planning software for small businesses, SimpliRoute is a great option. Its cutting-edge route algorithm engine helps you boost your last-mile logistics performance, improve customer satisfaction, and reduce logistics costs. It allows you to keep track of your vehicles and drivers. Learn more about SimpliRoute

Route Planner for field salespeople

Badger Maps is the one-stop solution for handling and optimizing all our sales routes and schedules. It claims to reduce your driving requirements by 20% by optimizing your routes and planning your daily meetings. In the B2B delivery mapping software category, Badger Maps claims to rank highest. Read Badger Maps Reviews

Emergents | 2024

Cloud-based software for efficient route planning

OptimoRoute is a route planning software that uses smart technology for real-world operations to plan and optimize your routes in no time to assist you in achieving high productivity. It offers simple and efficient solutions for several businesses ranging from e-commerce to food delivery, healthcare, HVAC services, inspection services, installation and maintenance. Learn more about OptimoRoute

Real-Time Route Planning, Tracking, Analytics

LogiNext Mile is yet another top-ranked route planning and route optimization software that plans and optimizes faster and shorter routes as per the preferred time windows of its customers. While planning, LogiNext Mile takes into account the working hours as well as the geographic preferences of the driver, local traffic, and vehicle capacity constraints. Read LogiNext Mile Reviews

Next-level routing software to help your business

This astounding vehicle route planning software rendered by WorkWave Route Manager is an all-in-one routing and GPS that offers real-time, true optimization for your business. This routing management software is designed to suit the needs of owners, dispatchers, drivers, and customers. Its reporting and KPIs enable you to maximize your delivery team's efficiency. Learn more about WorkWave Route Manager

Stress Free Software

ServiceCore is a delivery route planning software that assists greatly in cutting fuel costs and completing more jobs. All you have to do is add your customer’s mentioned address, and this route planning system will give you exact coordinates. It is suitable for jobs that involve multiple service areas and allows you to make changes on the fly during emergencies easily. Learn more about ServiceCore

Software by NexTraq, LLC

NexTraq, a cloud-based route scheduling software, caters to the needs of all businesses, with deliveries as one of its operations. It indulges in several tasks, including vehicle tracking, a job scheduling board, automatically assigning drivers, optimizing routes, and offering real-time alerts. NextTraq's mapping system is powered by Google Maps, enabling dispatchers to send optimized routes to drivers via the app itself. Learn more about NexTraq

Software by Geopointe

Geopointe is a fully featured Route Planning Software designed to serve Enterprises, SMEs and StartUps. Geopointe provides end-to-end solutions designed for Web App and Android. This online Route Planning system offers Driver Management, Performance Metrics, Drag & Drop Scheduling and Territory Management at one place. Learn more about Geopointe

Intelligent Fleet Management Software

Fleetx is one of the choicest GPS routing software options that helps improve route performance and maximize ROI. This amazing route optimization tool brings you an AI-driven freight automation platform via which all logistics stakeholders will be able to simplify their end-to-end operations. The software uses the Internet of Things and big data analytics to offer real-time, actionable insights. Read fleetx Reviews

Most Reviewed

Building the OS for Global Trade

Empowering over 170 businesses globally, Shipsy is one of the best delivery route planning software. It offers a proficient management system for fleets in first- and last-mile delivery. It offers simple and smart APIs, intelligent load planning, 50+ integrations for seamless operations, and automatic real-time updates to customers. Read Shipsy Reviews

route-planning-software-guide

In today’s fast-paced business landscape, every other business or individual service provider is looking for ways to improve their logistics and transportation operations. As a result, the demand for effective route planning is rising.

Whether you aim to cut the expenses of your fleet or manage the tight schedules of your delivery business, finding the optimal routes is essential. To make these tasks easier, route planning software comes into play.

In this guide, we'll explore the key features, benefits, and considerations of route planning software to help you make an informed decision and find the perfect solution tailored to your business needs.

What Is Route Planning or Optimization?

Route planning is the process of determining the most efficient and feasible route between multiple locations. The basic goal of route planning is to establish clearly defined routes that consider factors like distance, travel time, traffic, vehicle specifications, and any additional constraints or requirements.

On the other hand, route optimization is a step ahead of route planning. It uses modern technology and advanced algorithms to identify the most optimal routes. 

The route optimization process goes beyond merely identifying ideal routes; it strives to minimize costs, reduce travel time, and improve the utilization of resources. Route optimization focuses on dynamically altering routes to adapt to changing circumstances by utilizing real-time data such as traffic conditions and delivery time windows. 

What is Route Planning Software?

Route planning software is a technologically advanced tool that simplifies and automates determining and optimizing the most efficient route between multiple locations.

The software calculates the optimal route by taking several factors into consideration. These factors include distance, travel time, traffic patterns, and vehicle specifications. Additionally, it considers real-time data, including live traffic and weather updates to adjust the routes per the changing conditions.

Furthermore, delivery route planning software focuses on optimal resource use by efficiently allocating vehicles and drivers on specific routes. 

The software gives users the functionality to manage multiple stops in a single route. This makes it suitable for field-service businesses, transportation and delivery services, and other businesses with complex routing requirements.

Overall, it is a powerful tool that enhances efficiency and competitiveness in logistics operations.

Benefits of Route Planning Software

Route planning software offers a multitude of benefits that significantly impact business operations. Let's examine these advantages in more detail to comprehend their profound impact:

advantages-of-route-planning-software

  1. Fuel Cost Saving

    The route planning system helps businesses lower fuel consumption by determining the most effective routes. Organizations can minimize fuel costs and have positive impacts on the environment by reducing travel distances and optimizing vehicle routes. This leads to substantial cost savings, especially for companies with large fleets of vehicles.

  2. Time and Cost Savings

    Efficient route planning translates to time savings for drivers and faster deliveries. By minimizing travel time and reducing detours, businesses can optimize their operations, handle more deliveries or service calls, and save on labor and operational costs.

  3. Identifies Most Effective Routes

    Route planning software considers several factors, including live traffic updates, road conditions, and delivery constraints. Considering these factors, the software determines the most efficient routes for every trip, resulting in seamless and more reliable transportation.

  4. Reduced Mileage and Emissions

    Businesses can reduce their vehicles' overall mileage using optimal routes. This contributes to a more environmentally friendly and sustainable approach to transportation by lowering carbon emissions and fuel consumption.

  5. Improved Safety

    The best routing software usually determines the safety elements by considering traffic patterns and road conditions. The software increases overall driver safety by providing drivers with safer and more reliable routes, lowering the probability of accidents, and improving the business's safety record.

  6. Efficient Resource Utilization

    Optimized routes result in more effective utilization of time, drivers, and vehicles. Businesses can boost productivity and maximize operational efficiency by ensuring resources are used to their utmost capacity.

  7. Improved Customer Satisfaction

    Making accurate and timely deliveries or service visits is key to keeping customers happy. Route planning tools improve customer satisfaction by ensuring that drivers arrive on time. Customers who are happy with the service are more inclined to become repeat customers and refer the business to others.

Different Types of Route Planning Software

Route planning software is available in various specialized forms to meet the specific requirements of various businesses and industries.

Let's explore the different types of route planning software:

types-of-route-planning-software

  1. Field Service Management Software

    Field service management software is tailored to efficiently manage and optimize the schedules of service technicians or field workers. It incorporates route planning as a crucial feature to ensure technicians reach customer locations promptly and efficiently. 

    This software helps businesses streamline field operations, minimize travel time, and improve overall service quality by considering factors like real-time traffic conditions, technician availability, and service priorities.

  2. Fleet Management Systems

    Fleet management systems encompass a comprehensive suite of tools that enable businesses to oversee and control their entire fleet of vehicles. Since route planning is essential to commercial vehicle route optimization, it is a key component of these systems. 

    Fleet management software determines effective routes for each vehicle by considering various factors, including delivery locations, vehicle capacity, and traffic conditions. As a result, fuel consumption is decreased, delivery schedules are improved, and fleet productivity is enhanced. 

    Additionally, the vehicle route planning software frequently provides real-time tracking. This allows businesses to keep track of the whereabouts of their vehicles and make adjustments immediately for dynamic route optimization.

  3. Logistics Planning Software

    Logistics planning software focuses on simplifying the movement of goods across the supply chain. The effective coordination of shipments from manufacturers to warehouses, distribution hubs, and retail stores depends on route planning. 

    Logistics planning software optimizes delivery routes by considering order volumes, delivery dates, and carrier capacities to ensure timely and cost-effective deliveries. As a result, the efficiency of the supply chain is increased, transit times are reduced, and inventory management is improved.

  4. Public Transit Planning Software

    Public transit planning software is designed for public transportation systems, such as buses and trains. These systems optimize schedules and routes to offer passengers safe and effective transit options. 

    Public transit planning software enables transit agencies to provide smoother and more convenient transportation services by considering variables including passenger demand, road congestion, and transfer points. This promotes increased use of public transportation, eases traffic congestion, and helps create a greener, more sustainable urban environment.

  5. Ride-Sharing and Delivery Apps

    Ride-sharing and delivery apps have revolutionized how people travel and receive goods. These platforms use sophisticated route planning algorithms to match riders or customers with nearby drivers or delivery partners. 

    The software calculates the most efficient routes for drivers to pick up passengers or packages and deliver them to their destinations. Optimizing routes, ride-sharing, and delivery apps minimize customer wait times, enhance driver efficiency, and ensure timely and reliable service.

  6. Stand-alone Route Planning

    Stand-alone route planning software provides specialized route optimization capabilities for businesses with unique routing needs. These tools offer flexibility and customization options, allowing users to tailor the software to their specific requirements. 

    Stand-alone route planning solutions are ideal for businesses seeking dedicated route optimization features without needing broader fleet or logistics management functionalities.

How Does Route Planning Software Work?

Route planning software calculates and optimizes the most efficient routes between multiple locations through a series of systematic procedures. The following essential elements are typically part of the procedure:

route-planning-software-working-model

  1. Data Input

    Users enter relevant information into the route planning solution, such as addresses, delivery sites, or service locations. The optimal routes are created using this data as a starting point.

  2. Data Processing

    After receiving the input data, the software analyzes it to examine the start and finish points and any extra stops or constraints.

  3. Algorithmic Optimization

    Route planning software uses advanced algorithms to determine the best routes. These algorithms consider a number of variables, such as the travel distance, the time required to arrive there, current traffic conditions, vehicle specifications, and any particular delivery constraints or time windows.

  4. Route Visualization

    The software then visually displays the recommended routes on a map for users to view the picked routes and potential detours. Users can more easily navigate using this visualization and better comprehend the routes.

  5. Dynamic Adjustments

    The route planning app frequently has the ability to make adjustments in real-time. This dynamic feature enables the software to adapt to changes in the routes' traffic, weather, or other route-affecting factors. As a result, drivers can be steered along the most up-to-date and effective routes even while on the road.

  6. Optimization Criteria

    Users can usually modify the optimization criteria to meet their specific requirements and preferences. Businesses, for instance, can place a higher priority on factors such as cutting down on travel time, saving money on fuel, or adhering to specific delivery windows.

  7. Resource Allocation

    Route planning software optimizes the allocation of drivers and vehicles in fleet management scenarios. Businesses can boost efficiency and save operating costs by allocating the appropriate resources to specific routes.

  8. Integration with GPS and Mobile Devices

    GPS and mobile device integration are common in modern GPS route planning software. This integration provides seamless navigation for drivers, offering turn-by-turn directions and real-time route updates to improve on-road efficiency.

    In summary, route planning software automates and streamlines the procedure for determining the optimal routes. The software helps businesses boost efficiency, cut costs, and enhance customer service across various industries by utilizing sophisticated algorithms and real-time data.

Essential Features of Route Optimization Software

Route optimization software includes various useful features that improve transportation and logistics operations. Let's examine these salient features in more detail:

key-features-of-route-optimization-software

  1. Fast Route Optimization

    Efficient route optimization is at the core of route planning software. Advanced algorithms rapidly calculate the most optimal routes based on distance, traffic conditions, vehicle capacity, and delivery time windows. 

    This quick route optimization capability saves valuable time for businesses and allows them to respond promptly to changing demands and operational needs.

  2. Geofencing

    Geofencing is a powerful feature that enables businesses to create virtual perimeters around specific locations or geographic areas. When vehicles enter or exit these predefined boundaries, the route optimization solution can trigger specific actions or send notifications. 

    Geofencing enhances security, aids in the real-time tracking of assets, and ensures that vehicles adhere to designated routes or service territories.

  3. Voice Command Directions

    Voice command directions provide drivers with hands-free navigation instructions. This feature is especially beneficial for drivers who must focus on the road while receiving turn-by-turn directions through voice prompts. 

    Voice command directions increase driver safety and reduce distractions during their journeys.

  4. Driver Performance Analytics

    Businesses can track and assess driver performance and behavior with the use of driver performance analytics. 

    The software keeps track of a number of elements, including route adherence, fuel consumption, and driving speed. Thanks to this useful data, businesses can identify areas for improvement, increase driver productivity, and encourage safer driving habits.

  5. Driver Note Logs

    Driver note logs allow drivers to add comments or notes about specific locations, customer preferences, or other pertinent information to the route optimization tool. 

    Dispatchers can access these notes for future route planning, ensuring personalized service and better customer experiences.

  6. Dispatching

    The dispatching feature facilitates smooth communication between dispatchers and drivers. Dispatchers can send real-time updates, new job assignments, or changes to routes directly to drivers via the route optimization solution. 

    This seamless communication ensures better coordination, helps drivers stay informed, and contributes to efficient operations.

  7. ELD Compliance

    Electronic Logging Device (ELD) compliance is crucial for businesses that must accurately track and record drivers' service hours. 

    Route optimization software with ELD compliance ensures that drivers' hours are properly logged. This helps businesses comply with regulatory requirements and avoid potential penalties.

  8. Multiple Vehicle Support

    The route optimization system can handle multiple vehicle types and support various fleet configurations. Whether businesses have trucks, vans, cars, motorcycles, or a combination of vehicles, the software can optimize routes for diverse fleet compositions.

  9. Performance and Productivity Analytics

    Analytics on performance and productivity give businesses detailed information on their level of operational effectiveness. Using essential parameters, including average delivery times, fuel consumption, driver productivity, and route performance, the software delivers reports and insights. 

    Businesses can identify areas for improvement, make well-informed decisions, and maximize overall operational efficiency with this data-driven strategy.

How to Evaluate the Right Route Optimization Software?

Businesses aiming to improve their logistics and transportation efficiency must carefully consider their choice of route optimization software. Route planning, cost reductions, and overall operational performance can all be significantly improved with a thorough evaluation of the available options.

The following is an extensive guide on evaluating the best route optimization software:

how-to-select-route-optimization-software

  1. Ease of Use

    User-friendliness is a key consideration. You don't want your team scratching their heads trying to figure out how to use the software. Look for a solution with an intuitive interface and straightforward navigation. 

    The software should be easy to understand and use, requiring minimal training for users to start using its features. A user-friendly software ensures smooth implementation and minimizes the learning curve for your team.

  2. Customer Support

    Reliable customer assistance is necessary for a smooth software experience. Evaluate the level of customer support provided by the software provider. 

    Providing timely technical support, proactive communication, and useful information can all greatly impact. It can assist in resolving any issues that can arise during implementation and everyday use.

  3. Features and Functionality

    Assess the range of features offered by the route optimization software. Look for key capabilities such as fast route optimization, geofencing, voice command directions, driver performance analytics, dispatching, and ELD compliance. 

    Ensure the software aligns with your specific business needs and operational requirements.

  4. Cost and Budget

    Budgets matter, so find software that won't break the bank. Consider the software's pricing structure as you evaluate its value proposition. 

    While price is a crucial consideration, pay attention to the software's total benefits. Examine how well the software can help you cut costs, enhance productivity, and provide exceptional customer service.

  5. Try Other Potential Software

    Before making a final decision, explore trial versions or request demos of different route optimization software options. Testing multiple solutions allows you to compare their performance, user experience, and suitability for your specific use case. 

    This hands-on approach will help you make an informed decision based on your firsthand experience with route scheduling software.

  6. Flexibility and Adaptability

    Consider the scalability and adaptability of the route optimization software. As your business grows and evolves, the software should accommodate changing needs and integrate seamlessly with your existing systems or technologies. 

    A flexible solution ensures that your route optimization capabilities adapt to future challenges and opportunities.

    Evaluating route optimization software requires careful user-friendliness, customer service, features, pricing, and flexibility analysis. By taking the time to consider these factors, you'll be able to make an informed decision supporting your business's objectives.

Top 5 Route Planning Software Comparison

Name
Free Trial
Demo
Pricing

Upper

7 Days

Yes

Starting price at $80/month

Route4Me

7 Days

Yes

Starting price at $199/month

Samsara

7 Days

Yes

On Request

Routific

7 Days

Yes

Starting price at $49/vehicle/month

OptimoRoute

30 Days

Yes

Starting price at $35.10/driver/month

1. Upper

upper-route-planning-dashboard

Upper is a powerful route planning and optimization software transforming delivery and transportation operations. The software automates multi-stop route planning and optimizes delivery routes, leading to enhanced efficiency and cost savings for businesses.

With a user-friendly Excel import feature, Upper allows for effortlessly importing multiple delivery addresses from spreadsheets, saving valuable time and effort. Upper helps in route planning and optimization, generating the most efficient routes for multiple vehicles and reducing travel time and fuel costs. 

Upper offers extensive customization options, allowing businesses to set priorities for crucial deliveries, define service times, and establish customer-preferred delivery windows. Live driver tracking, proof of delivery (POD), and estimated time of arrival (ETA) update features boost transparency and communication.

All in all, Upper is the ultimate solution for businesses seeking streamlined route planning and delivery processes. 

Features
  • Excel import 
  • Route planning 
  • Route optimization 
  • Route scheduling 
  • Live driver tracking 
  • Proof of delivery 
  • One click dispatch 
  • Report and analytics
  • API integration
Pros
  • It has a user-friendly interface for easy navigation.
  • Get real-time tracking for streamlined operations.
  • The software has different customization options for flexible route planning.
  • You can provide your drivers with a dedicated app for route management.
  • Automated customer notifications for improved communication.
  • Provides integration with popular digital maps, like Google Maps.
Cons
  • The software has no offline mode for route planning.
  • The voice-guided navigation feature is not supported.

Pricing

  • Trial: 7-day free trial
  • Essentials: $80/month for up to 3 users
  • Growth: $160/month for up to 5 users
  • Enterprise: Need to contact the Upper team

2. Route4Me

route4me-route-planning-dashboard

Route4Me is an efficient cloud-based route planning software designed to streamline routing solutions for businesses of all sizes. 

Ideal for field service, sales, marketing, and territory management, Route4Me automates the route planning process and dispatches optimized routes to a mobile app equipped with built-in navigation. 

By uploading customer information and preferences, businesses can generate the most efficient routes with just a few clicks. With data visualization and reporting capabilities, Route4Me provides valuable insights for informed decision-making and optimized performance.

Route4Me supports seamless integration with various telematics vendors as a cloud-based solution, making it a versatile and adaptable route-planning tool.

Features
  • Automated route planning
  • GPS tracking
  • Last mile geofencing
  • Data visualization and reporting
  • Customer database management
  • Integration with telematics vendors
  • E-signatures and notes
  • Scheduling calendar
Pros
  • Route4Me has a native mobile app for iOS and Android with on-the-go route planning and tracking.
  • You will get powerful reporting and data visualization for analyzing delivery metrics.
  • Real-time tracking of drivers' locations for improved delivery management.
  • The software has a scheduling calendar feature for precise and time-sensitive deliveries.
Cons
  • You will face Inaccurate routing, leading to wrong addresses and incorrect stop sequencing.
  • Routing algorithm issues with accuracy, particularly for multiple stops on the same street.
  • Poor customer service, challenging to reach representatives for assistance.
  • Performance problems with a high volume of stops, especially above 500/1000 stops.

Pricing

  • Trial: 7-day free trial
  • Route Management: $199/month
  • Route Optimization: $249/month
  • Route Optimization Plus: $349/month

3. Samsara

samsara-route-planning-dashboard

Samsara offers a comprehensive and sophisticated fleet management solution that caters to the needs of businesses of all sizes. The software offers the user a combination of advanced route optimization and GPS tracking, and real-time telematics. 

Samsara's route optimization feature plays a vital role in minimizing driving distance and time, thereby reducing operational costs. The route planning algorithm considers various factors, including vehicle capacity, delivery time windows, traffic conditions, and other variables, ensuring that businesses can plan the most efficient routes. 

With features like driver safety and compliance, vehicle maintenance tracking, proof of delivery, and AI-enabled camera systems, Samsara aims to provide a robust and efficient solution for fleet management needs.

Features
  • Tracking hardware
  • Driver and vehicle management
  • Fleet maintenance and optimization
  • ELD compliance
  • Real-time GPS tracking
  • Fleet analytics and reports
  • Proof of delivery 
  • Pre-built API and integrations
Pros
  • This fleet management software includes both hardware and software solutions.
  • It has AI-powered cameras to detect violations of company protocols.
  • Ensures compliance with ELD and traffic regulations.
  • Samsara offers live telematics and location tracking for fleet vehicles.
Cons
  • The vast and complex product ecosystem may impact the ease of use of this software.
  • Samsara offers only long-tenure contracts.
  • Samsara users often face hardware and software problems.
  • Samsara does not offer free trials for its fleet management software solutions.

Pricing

  • Samsara's pricing details are not publicly accessible. For detailed pricing information, direct inquiry is required.

4. Routific

Routific is a cloud-based delivery route planner designed to help small and medium-sized businesses streamline their fleet operations. With an intuitive interface and a powerful route optimization algorithm, Routific enables businesses to plan, optimize, and dispatch multiple routes effortlessly. 

The software considers factors like time windows, vehicle capacities, and stop priorities to generate optimized routes in minutes. Dispatchers can share routes with drivers through the mobile app, enabling real-time tracking and automated notifications for improved customer experiences. 

With its user-friendly approach and reliable customer support, Routific is one of the most reliable routing solutions.

Features
  • Import delivery address
  • Route customization options
  • Driver app
  • Live GPS tracking
  • Automatic customer notifications
  • Proof of delivery
  • Delivery analytics
  • Routific platform API
Pros
  • Routific provides an interactive Map for efficient delivery visualization and organization.
  • You will get mobile app access for easy route tracking and management on the go.
  • The software offers proof of delivery with customer signatures and photos for enhanced accountability.
Cons
  • There is limited visibility of nearby stops due to a small timeline size.
  • The driver's app restricts uploading multiple images for documentation.
  • Users seek more client messaging options within the app.

Pricing

  • Trial: 7-day free trial
  • Essentials: $49 USD per vehicle/month
  • Professional: $59 USD per vehicle/month

5. OptimoRoute

optimoroute-route-planning-dashboard

OptimoRoute is an innovative and comprehensive route-scheduling software that caters to the needs of delivery and field service businesses. OptimoRoute simplifies the route planning process with advanced algorithms and intelligent automation.

The software considers various constraints, such as driver working times, overtime, lunch breaks, vehicle capacities, and different vehicle types. By balancing the workload effectively and maximizing the number of orders performed, RouteOptimo cuts operating expenses and boosts customer satisfaction.

Furthermore, the mobile app for drivers provides up-to-the-minute order information, maps, schedules, navigation, and data collection. The app enables drivers to stay connected and informed throughout their routes.

Features
  • Automated planning
  • Live tracking and ETA
  • Mobile app for drivers
  • Proof of delivery
  • Real-time route modification
  • Workload balancing
  • Analytics
  • Breadcrumbs
  • API integration
Pros
  • The software offers API integration for seamless synchronization with existing systems.
  • Real-time ETA based on genuine travel times and actual geographic distances.
  • Digital documentation with the capture of signatures, photos, and notes.
  • Mobile app access for drivers to manage schedules, navigation, and job tracking.
Cons
  • Price per user may not be suitable for businesses with tight budgets.
  • Routes are not always in the most strategic order, requiring manual updates.
  • Limited incorporation of live traffic data affects dynamic routing.

Pricing

  • Trial: 30-day free trial
  • Lite: $35.10 per driver/month
  • Pro: $44.10 per driver/month
  • Custom: Need to contact the RouteOptimo team

Which Industries Use Route Planning Software?

Route optimization software is a versatile tool with applications across various businesses and industries. Let's examine in detail some of the major industries that benefit from this potent software:

industries-that-use-route-planning-software

  1. Field Service Management

    In the field service business, where technicians go to clients' locations for repairs and servicing, route optimization software is an invaluable tool. It ensures that technicians will get to their destinations quickly, reducing travel time and increasing the number of services they can perform in a single day. 

    This results in a better customer experience, lower operating expenses, and improved productivity.

  2. Transportation and Logistics

    Transportation and logistics companies heavily rely on route optimization software to streamline their operations. 

    Whether managing a fleet of trucks, vans, or delivery vehicles, the software calculates the most efficient routes for each vehicle. The routes are determined by considering traffic conditions, delivery schedules, and vehicle capacity. 

    This leads to reduced fuel costs, optimized resource utilization, and faster deliveries, improving bottom-line performance.

  3. E-commerce and Delivery Services

    With the boom in e-commerce and online delivery services, route optimization software has become a must-have tool. It works as a delivery management solution that helps delivery businesses plan the most efficient routes for delivering packages to customers' doorsteps. 

    The software considers real-time traffic data, delivery time windows, and driver availability, ensuring timely and accurate deliveries. This enhances customer satisfaction and loyalty.

  4. Sales and Marketing

    Sales teams benefit from route optimization software to plan their sales visits and client meetings more efficiently. 

    The software helps sales representatives optimize their routes to cover the most number of clients in a given time, reducing travel time and increasing face-to-face interactions with potential customers.

  5. Food and Beverage Delivery

    Food delivery services have experienced tremendous growth, and route optimization software is at the heart of their success. It ensures that food delivery drivers follow the most efficient routes to deliver orders promptly, leading to happy customers and positive reviews.

  6. Home Services

    From plumbing to electrical services, home service companies use route optimization software to dispatch technicians to customer locations efficiently. 

    The software helps businesses respond to service requests promptly, optimize technician routes, and improve overall service quality.

  7. Waste Management and Recycling

    Route Optimization software is used by waste management businesses to improve waste collection routes.

    These businesses can decrease fuel consumption, reduce emissions, and streamline waste disposal processes by choosing the most effective routes for waste pickup vehicles.

What Is the Average Cost of Route Planning Software?

Route planning software costs can vary significantly based on the business's features, functionalities, and scale. Generally, the price can range from $50 to $200 per month per user or vehicle for small to medium-sized organizations. The monthly price can reach several thousand dollars for larger companies or those with more sophisticated demands.

It's crucial to remember that certain providers of route planning software could provide various price structures, such as charging based on the number of users, vehicles, or orders. Furthermore, some providers could offer tiered price plans with various features and levels of support.

It would be wise to get in touch with the individual route planning software providers and ask for a quote based on your business's requirements and the number of users or vehicles you need to manage. This will help you get a more accurate estimate of the price.

Conclusion

Selecting the best route planning software is critical for businesses seeking to optimize their delivery operations. Assessing factors like ease of use, scalability, real-time tracking capabilities, and integration options with existing systems is essential. 

Careful consideration of individual requirements and objectives can guide the selection process. Free trials, user reviews, and industry recommendations can help businesses make informed choices.

A well-chosen route planning software can ultimately streamline operations, enhance customer satisfaction, and drive overall business growth.

FAQs

Yes, route optimization software usually incorporates security measures to safeguard information and secure sensitive data. Reputable software providers protect user data and routes using encryption technologies and secure cloud storage.

Using route planning and optimization software is one of the best ways to route multiple destinations efficiently. The route planning software utilizes advanced algorithms to calculate the most optimal sequence of stops. For selecting the optimal route, it considers various factors, including distance, priorities of deliveries, time windows, traffic conditions, and vehicle capacity.

Fleet management software and route optimization software are related but distinct tools. 

Fleet management software focuses on overseeing and managing a fleet of vehicles, monitoring their health, maintenance, and performance. On the other hand, route optimization software specifically targets efficient route planning for deliveries, pickups, or service appointments. 

Some comprehensive solutions may integrate both functionalities, offering a complete fleet management and route optimization package.

You can use route planning programs to map a route with multiple stops. Input the addresses of all the destinations you must visit, specify any constraints or preferences (time windows and priority stops), and the software will calculate the most efficient sequence for your stops.

Route planning software employs various routing algorithms to calculate efficient routes. Some common algorithms include:

  • Dijkstra's Algorithm: This algorithm finds the shortest path between two points on a graph by iteratively selecting the closest unvisited node until the destination is reached.
  • A* Algorithm: A variation of Dijkstra's algorithm that uses heuristics to guide the search more efficiently.
  • Genetic Algorithm: Inspired by natural selection, this algorithm generates multiple potential solutions and combines them to create new generations of routes.
  • Simulated Annealing: This probabilistic algorithm mimics the annealing process in metallurgy to find an optimal solution by exploring various routes and occasionally accepting worse solutions to escape local optima.
  • Ant Colony Optimization: This algorithm is inspired by the foraging behavior of ants, where artificial ants deposit pheromones on paths, influencing other ants to choose higher pheromone paths, ultimately leading to optimized routes.
  • Contraction Hierarchies: This algorithm preprocesses the graph to speed up route calculations by identifying important nodes and shortcuts in the road network.

Bidirectional Search: Instead of searching from the start to the destination, this algorithm searches from both ends simultaneously, reducing the search space and improving efficiency.

While route optimization software does not usually come with GPS hardware, it can integrate with GPS tracking devices installed in fleet vehicles. This integration allows for real-time location tracking and communication between the GPS routing software and the actual vehicle positions.

Last Updated: January 02, 2024