TMS
TMS (Transportation Management System) is a software tool that helps companies manage their shipping and delivery operations. Think of it as a control center for all transportation activities - from planning routes and tracking shipments to managing costs and coordinating with drivers. Companies use TMS to make their shipping processes more efficient, save money on transportation, and keep better track of where their goods are at any time. Similar systems include Mercury Gate, Oracle Transportation Management, or SAP Transportation Management. It's like having a smart assistant that helps organize all aspects of moving goods from one place to another.
Examples in Resumes
Managed daily operations using TMS to coordinate fleet of 50+ trucks
Reduced shipping costs by 15% through efficient use of Transportation Management System (TMS)
Trained warehouse staff on TMS software for improved shipment tracking
Typical job title: "TMS Coordinators"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find TMS Coordinators
Online Communities
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you handle a situation where multiple customers need rush deliveries but you have limited transportation resources?
Expected Answer: A senior professional should explain their prioritization process, considering factors like customer relationships, contract terms, costs, and available alternatives. They should also mention communication strategies with stakeholders.
Q: How have you used TMS data to improve operational efficiency?
Expected Answer: Should discuss experience analyzing transportation data to reduce costs, optimize routes, improve carrier selection, and make strategic decisions about shipping methods and timing.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What steps would you take to select the best carrier for a specific shipment?
Expected Answer: Should explain considering factors like cost, transit time, reliability, shipment requirements, and using TMS data to compare carrier performance and rates.
Q: How do you ensure compliance with transportation regulations while managing shipments?
Expected Answer: Should discuss understanding of DOT regulations, hours of service rules, hazmat requirements, and how TMS helps track and maintain compliance.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What basic information do you need to schedule a shipment in a TMS?
Expected Answer: Should mention pickup/delivery locations, dates, shipment size and weight, special requirements, and customer details.
Q: How do you track a shipment using TMS?
Expected Answer: Should explain basic tracking functions, checking status updates, accessing tracking numbers, and communicating updates to customers.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic shipment booking and tracking
- Data entry in TMS
- Customer service coordination
- Basic route planning
Mid (2-5 years)
- Carrier relationship management
- Cost analysis and reporting
- Problem-solving for shipping issues
- Route optimization
Senior (5+ years)
- Strategic transportation planning
- Team management
- Process improvement
- Budget management
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of basic shipping terminology
- Unfamiliar with DOT regulations
- Poor understanding of shipping costs and factors
- Lack of experience with any TMS software
- No customer service experience
