Modern logistics software should ensure high accuracy, data security, and integration with various management systems. In this article, we will look at the key stages of creating a logistics application.
How Can Companies Save Time With Logistics Software?
Logistics apps have many advantages. Here’s how they can save your business:
- Fast and maximize container loading. With such software, specialists automatically calculate how to arrange the cargo in transport. A company can deliver two different loads faster – by packing them in one car. And with the freed up transport, the business can send even more orders.
- Error-free planning of loading goods. Errors can be different. For example, the goods are not packed correctly, are incorrectly positioned, or are damaged. With apps, such errors are almost non-existent – the company has fewer returns and problems.
- Build efficient routes. The carrier can choose a fast route in the app or change it, taking into account the order priority and cargo characteristics. The driver will spend less time on delivery and money on fuel, and the company will not have to hire a separate specialist to plan routes.
Types of Logistics And Delivery Software
The type of logistics tool depends on the type of transport. There are 5 of them:
1. Truck load calculation software.
Such applications show how to place cargo and containers in a truck. There is also software that allows drivers to quickly plan a delivery route.
EasyCargo is one such application. The user can upload a list of goods from an Excel spreadsheet, and the application will automatically calculate how to place them in a container. EasyCargo also has an editor that shows a 3D model of a truck. With its help, specialists can manually change the position of pallets and containers. The company will definitely be able to fully equip the truck.
2. Airplane load calculation software.
Airplanes have their own characteristics, such as weight restrictions. To transport cargo on them, companies use appropriate applications.
For example, the CHAMP Weight & Balance application takes a list of goods from an Excel spreadsheet and automatically calculates loading plans. With such software, companies save on fuel. This application also supports any air transport: from commercial airliners to cargo planes.
3. Software for calculating the loading of ships and barges.
With the help of such applications, companies can reduce the downtime of a vessel in port terminals and also track precise data on the cargo, such as weight and delivery status.
For example, the Videck Stowage Planning application. Here, the user can upload a list of goods. This cargo is converted into images that can be moved around in the ship model. The finished loading plan can be shared with engineers or clients.
4. Software for multimodal transportation.
Companies use such applications when organizing delivery by different modes of transport.
For example, the Shiptify multimodal transportation system. With it, a company can track cargo and calculate delivery costs. If this information is needed on paper, it can be downloaded as a report.
5. Custom application.
Some companies develop their own software for the logistics industry. It is adapted to the existing supply chain in the business. This is convenient – over time, it can be scaled along with the company.
How to Create Logistics Software
Creating logistics software is a complex and multi-stage process aimed at optimizing transportation, managing inventory, and increasing the efficiency of supply chains. The process can be divided into the following stages:
1. Determining the type of software and its purpose.
Analyze the supply chain in the company. This is the first and mandatory stage. It is worth starting from the type of transport — how goods are most often transported: by air, by water, or by truck.
Don’t forget about market analysis. Find the strengths and weaknesses of competitors. For example, you may notice that they have many functions, but the UI design may be better. Use this knowledge to hone your idea.
2. Define the functions.
Decide which functions to choose based on the needs of the company and competitor analysis. The main thing here is to remember the company’s supply chain and rely on it when planning the application.
3. Think over the UI/UX design.
Determine how users will interact with the application. Think about the user path — scenarios of how users will use the software.
Each type of user needs its own functions and interfaces. If you mix the functions of a carrier and a cargo loading specialist, they will get confused and close the application.
Don’t make the design cumbersome with useless buttons and decorations. They should not interfere with the usability of the program.
4. Develop an MVP — and test it.
This stage includes development and QA. Choose a stack — programming languages. For a web application, it is best to use React.js and Node.js. Such programs work smoothly — they load quickly and without bugs.
For computer programs, you can choose Electron.js. To create an application for MacOS and Windows, you do not need to hire two teams of developers. With such a framework, you will develop a program for both platforms twice as fast.
React Native is suitable for mobile applications. With it, the development team will be able to write code for iOS and Android simultaneously. Don’t forget to test the app and remove bugs.
5. Launch the app and keep updating it.
Collect feedback from early adopters of the software. Add features and update the app based on their feedback. You will improve the app and simplify work with supply chains.
To Conclude!
Developing software for logistics tasks in 2025 requires a comprehensive approach, including requirements analysis, technology selection, interface design, and integration with existing systems. A successful application should not only automate logistics processes, but also ensure ease of use, reliability, and scalability. Given the rapid development of technologies, it is important to follow new trends in order to create a competitive and effective solution. If you want to entrust the development of a logistics solution to a reliable company, we recommend paying attention to Digiteum.