10 Best Driver Management Software (Features. Benefits, How to Choose) (2024)

Keeping up with delivery demands has never been more challenging. Customers want their orders fast, and companies are feeling the pressure.

But here’s the catch: there aren’t enough drivers to go around.

According to Statista, the U.S. trucking industry alone was short 80,500 drivers in 2021. This figure could reach 162,000 by 2030.

This shortage strains current drivers, with 74% reporting concerns over pressure to work longer hours.

With slimmer teams and operational struggles, fleet managers juggle complex schedules, maintenance issues, routing inefficiencies, and more with limited staff.

Fortunately, advanced technology-based solutions in terms of driver management software now come to the rescue.

Driver management software gives dispatch managers enhanced tools to track, analyze, and optimize their drivers and vehicles, helping to improve productivity despite short-staffing challenges.

So, in this blog, we’ll explore the best driver management software that can help you overcome the challenges of fleet management and give you visibility into your mobile workforce.

1. Upper

Upper is the most advanced driver management software, transforming last-mile delivery operations with its state-of-the-art solutions for route planning and optimization.

Designed to streamline delivery processes and enhance efficiency, Upper offers businesses unparalleled control and visibility over their driver fleets.

With advanced route optimization capabilities, real time tracking, and seamless dispatching functionalities, Upper empowers businesses and dispatchers like you to manage drivers, navigate with confidence, minimize costs, and maximize customer satisfaction.

Trusted by industry leaders across various sectors, Upper sets the standard for driver management excellence. It provides a comprehensive toolkit for you to achieve operational excellence and success in driver management.

Here’s why Upper stands out as the best choice for driver management software:

• Route optimization: Upper’s advanced route optimization algorithm calculates the most efficient routes, considering various time and distance-based constraints. This feature ensures that drivers complete deliveries in the shortest time possible, minimizing fuel costs and maximizing productivity.
• Route scheduling: Upper offers effortless route scheduling capabilities, enabling you to plan and manage delivery routes with ease. This feature helps optimize driver schedules, allocate resources efficiently, and ensure timely deliveries.
• Real-time tracking: With Upper, you can track your drivers in real-time, gaining visibility into their location and route progress. This feature enables you to make informed decisions and provide accurate ETAs to your customers.
• Proof of delivery: Upper allows drivers to capture proof of delivery in the form of photos, signatures, and notes directly within the app. This feature enhances transparency, reduces disputes, and ensures that deliveries are completed accurately and on time.
• Actionable reports: Upper offers detailed reports that provide insights into delivery operations, driver performance, and route efficiency. These reports help many fleet managers identify areas for improvement, optimize routes, and enhance overall driver productivity.
• Vehicle capacity constraint: Upper’s intelligent algorithms optimize routes based on both load and vehicle constraints. This ensures that deliveries and pickups are scheduled in the most efficient manner, minimizing travel time and maximizing driver productivity.

2. Driveroo

Driveroo offers a comprehensive driver management system designed to empower both drivers and fleet managers with enhanced performance capabilities.

Driveroo facilitates proactive driver management by providing real-time notifications for missed or incomplete tasks. Additionally, the software’s geofencing feature allows for monitoring vehicle locations in real time and receiving alerts for any deviations from designated routes or locations.

With customizable fleet dashboards and robust reporting capabilities, Driveroo empowers fleet managers to analyze data effectively. It helps in making informed decisions and optimizing fleet performance for enhanced efficiency and profitability.

Key features offered by Driveroo:

• eDVIR (Electronic Driver Vehicle Inspection Reports): Driveroo streamlines the vehicle inspection process with eDVIR, enabling drivers to complete inspections digitally without the need for paperwork.
• Work order tracking: With Driveroo, managers can assign maintenance tasks and track the progress of work orders in real time. This feature facilitates communication between drivers, operators, and maintenance staff, ensuring efficient completion of tasks.
• Proactive driver app: Driveroo’s mobile app empowers drivers and operators with a user-friendly interface. It enables them to access important reports and information quickly.

3. FleetWave

FleetWave provides efficient driver management software designed to streamline fleet operations and optimize driver performance.

With tools for monitoring driver records, automating compliance reminders, and tracking key metrics like fuel economy and safety, FleetWave empowers fleet managers. It helps them keep their drivers informed and their fleets running smoothly.

By simplifying preventative maintenance scheduling and promoting safety and compliance, FleetWave ensures operational efficiency while minimizing downtime and risk.

Key features offered by FleetWave:

• Comprehensive driver records: FleetWave allows managers to maintain organized and up-to-date records of driver information, including licenses, training, and contact details.
• Driver performance tracking: FleetWave enables managers to track key metrics related to driver performance, such as fuel economy, safety, and productivity.
• Asset allocation: FleetWave enables asset management and resource allocation by providing functionality to assign vehicles or equipment to drivers and track assignments in real time.
• Customizable reporting: FleetWave provides customizable reporting tools for generating detailed fleet reports and analyzing performance metrics.

4. TruckLogics

TruckLogics offers a simplified driver management system tailored for the trucking business. It provides a solution to manage drivers within a fleet efficiently.

With TruckLogics, communication with drivers is streamlined, settlements are managed intelligently, and routes are planned effectively.

Additionally, drivers benefit from the convenience of a mobile app, which allows them to upload dispatch expenses, electronically sign Bills of Lading (BOLs), and send automatic load status notifications to customers.

TruckLogics is the go-to routing solution for trucking businesses seeking to simplify driver management and improve operational productivity.

Key features offered by TruckLogics:

• Driver account settings: TruckLogics allows fleet managers to create and manage driver accounts, providing drivers with access to the mobile app. Managers can customize each driver’s level of access and permissions.
• Driver communication: Fleet managers can communicate with drivers via text or email, notifying them of assigned or canceled dispatches and upcoming maintenance.
• Driver log: TruckLogics enables drivers to log duty status, record DVIRs, and add check calls, fuel-ups, expenses, and documents using the mobile app.
• Route planner: The truck route planner automatically determines the best routes and provides details, such as load information, distance between stops, expected travel time, and suggested stop times.

5. Driver Schedule

Driver Schedule simplifies driver management by offering a software solution designed to streamline scheduling, organization, and tracking for transportation and logistics companies.

By automating the scheduling process, managing fluctuating personal schedules, and implementing consistent policies and rules, Driver Schedule empowers businesses to optimize driver performance and company efficiency.

Driver Schedule enables the implementation of recurring training programs, tracks employee time-off, and efficiently manages vehicle issues and maintenance.

It even offers a range of features, including staff scheduling, driver availability tracking, time-off management, payroll tracking, training management, fleet maintenance, appointment scheduling, GPS tracking, and more.

Key features of Driver Schedule:

• Staff scheduling: Driver Schedule allows managers to efficiently create and manage schedules for drivers, ensuring optimal coverage and resource allocation.
• Driver availability: This feature enables managers to track driver availability in real time, facilitating better scheduling decisions and minimizing scheduling conflicts.
• Shift scheduling: Managers can easily create and manage shift schedules for drivers. It ensures that all shifts are properly covered and resources are allocated effectively.
• GPS tracking: The software offers GPS tracking capabilities, allowing managers to track the real-time location of vehicles and monitor driver routes and performance.

6. Fleetio

Fleetio empowers fleet managers and personnel to efficiently manage all aspects of their fleet operations, from driver scheduling to vehicle maintenance and beyond.

Fleetio’s user-friendly interface and robust functionalities enable organizations to track and monitor their fleet assets effortlessly. From managing driver schedules and assignments to tracking vehicle maintenance and expenses, Fleetio offers solutions for optimizing fleet performance and reducing operational costs.

Fleetio also provides advanced reporting and analytics capabilities. It empowers organizations to gain valuable insights into their fleet operations, identify trends, and make informed decisions to drive business growth and success.

Key features offered by Fleetio:

• Fleet asset tracking: Manage all aspects of your mobile assets, including tracking fleet data, storing important documents, and monitoring asset utilization to optimize fleet performance and reduce costs.
• Fleet management reporting: Increase visibility into fleet operations with real-time alerts, customizable data visualization, and detailed reporting on various metrics.
• Fleet maintenance: Automate maintenance triggers, handle service, and resolve issues with features such as preventive maintenance scheduling, electronic vehicle inspections, recall alerts, and vehicle issue management.

7. Verizon Connect

Verizon Connect offers advanced driver tracking and management software designed to enhance visibility into fleet operations.

With seamless integration for dispatching, scheduling, and work order management solutions, the platform enables fleet managers to monitor their drivers efficiently.

From unsafe driving alerts to detailed driver reports, the platform offers valuable insights to help address safety concerns, stay compliant, and optimize fleet performance.

The platform also provides advanced features like Driver ID. With its help, businesses can accurately identify drivers in real time, track their routes, and coach them to promote safe driving practices.

Key features offered by Verizon Connect:

• Driver tracking and monitoring: The software enables real-time tracking of drivers’ locations, allowing fleet managers to monitor their activities and ensure efficient operations.
• Driver behavior analysis: Verizon Connect provides tools to analyze driver behavior, including reckless driving events and excessive idling. It helps promote safe and fuel-efficient driving practices.
• Driver mobile app: The mobile app allows drivers to access company benchmarks, track safety scores, and receive alerts, promoting engagement and incentivizing safe driving behaviors.
• Compliance reporting: The software helps streamline compliance with Hours of Service (HOS), Electronic Logging Device (ELD), and Driver Vehicle Inspection Report (DVIR) regulations by providing detailed compliance reports.

8. Azuga

Azuga offers GPS fleet management software tailored to prioritize driver safety and streamline fleet operations.

The user-friendly platform empowers fleet managers with real-time insights, customizable solutions, and seamless integration, ensuring optimal management of drivers and vehicles.

From driver tracking and behavior analysis to asset tracking and compliance management, Azuga provides the tools and features necessary for optimal driver management.

Key features offered by Azuga:

• Driver safety scores: Azuga’s driver safety scoring system evaluates and rewards safe driving behaviors, fostering a culture of safety within fleets.
• GPS fleet tracking: Azuga offers real-time GPS fleet tracking capabilities, allowing fleet managers to monitor the location and movement of vehicles at all times.
• eLogs (ELD) compliance: Azuga’s eLogs solution ensures compliance with FMCSA regulations for Hours of Service (HOS) and Driver Vehicle Inspection Reports (DVIRs).
• Asset tracking: Azuga’s asset tracking system enables businesses to monitor the location and status of valuable assets in real time. With features like geofencing and maintenance scheduling, asset tracking helps optimize asset utilization and minimize loss.

9. Onfleet

Onfleet offers a cloud-based logistics management platform tailored to meet all your driver management and last-mile delivery requirements.

With scalable solutions suitable for businesses of various sizes, Onfleet aims to streamline dispatching, enhance data analytics accessibility, and provide real-time tracking capabilities.

The software is designed to assist businesses in upgrading their delivery services. Its toolkit includes route optimization, internal communication tools, pre-built software integrations, automated dispatch capabilities, and feedback collection mechanisms.

Trusted by customers across a variety of industries, Onfleet is committed to delivering efficient and seamless driver management solutions.

Key features offered by Onfleet:

• Consolidated operations: Onfleet offers a single web dashboard to consolidate routing and dispatch operations, simplifying management.
• Auto-assign engine: Onfleet’s powerful auto-assign engine streamlines task assignment, ensuring tasks are assigned to the right driver at the optimal time.
• Performance metrics: Detailed task history and driver performance metrics empower drivers to track their performance and identify areas for improvement.
• Team communication: Onfleet features a private, secure chat platform within the app. It facilitates seamless communication among team members and enhances collaboration.

10. Toro TMS

Toro TMS offers a user-friendly driver management system solution tailored to streamline essential tasks for carrier operations.

From storing essential driver documents to facilitating real-time tracking of drivers and trucks, Toro simplifies every aspect of driver management. Its automated settlement functionalities and comprehensive fleet management tools ensure streamlined operations.

With Toro, managing drivers becomes not only effortless but also driver-friendly, promising a hassle-free experience for both carriers and drivers alike.

Key features offered by Toro TMS:

• Driver profiles: Maintain vital driver information securely, including licenses and emergency contacts, within Toro’s organized driver profiles.
• Automated pay information: Configure earnings and deductions for each driver seamlessly, with details automatically transferred to the Driver Settlement functionality.
• Real-time tracking: Integrate with ELD and GPS fleet tracking systems to monitor driver location and hours of service (HOS) in real time.
• Driver communication: Utilize built-in driver messaging capabilities to dispatch loads directly to drivers’ mobile apps and collect documentation efficiently.

What is Driver Management?

Driver management software is a specialized tool designed to help businesses efficiently manage their drivers, vehicles, and overall fleet operations.

It provides a comprehensive platform for dispatchers, fleet managers, and logistics professionals to streamline various aspects of driver management, including route planning, scheduling, tracking, communication, and performance monitoring.

At its core, the driver management system aims to optimize fleet operations by improving productivity, enhancing safety, reducing costs, and ensuring timely deliveries. It automates many manual tasks involved in managing drivers and vehicles, allowing businesses to operate more efficiently and effectively.

11 Key Features of Driver Management Software

The key features of driver management software typically include:

1. Route optimization: Automatically generate the most efficient routes for drivers to minimize travel time, fuel consumption, and vehicle wear and tear.
2. Driver scheduling: Efficiently assign drivers to routes and shifts based on availability, skills, and workload. It ensures optimal resource allocation and coverage.
3. Real-time tracking: Monitor the location and status of drivers and vehicles in real-time, enabling better coordination and response to changing conditions.
4. Communication tools: Facilitate seamless communication between dispatchers, drivers, and customers through messaging, alerts, and notifications.
5. Performance monitoring: Track driver behavior, such as speed, idle time, and adherence to schedules. It helps to identify areas for improvement and ensure compliance with company policies and regulations.
6. Proof of delivery: Capture electronic proof of delivery, including signatures, photos, and timestamps, to verify completed deliveries and resolve disputes.
7. Reporting and analytics: Generate detailed reports and analytics on key performance metrics, such as delivery times, fuel efficiency, and customer satisfaction. These reports assist in making informed decisions and drive continuous improvement.
8. Vehicle maintenance: Schedule and track routine maintenance tasks, such as oil changes, tire rotations, and inspections, to keep vehicles in optimal condition, minimize breakdowns, and extend their lifespan.
9. Document management: Store and manage important driver documents, such as licenses, insurance certificates, and vehicle registrations, to ensure compliance and easy access when needed.
10. Integration with other systems: Seamlessly integrate with other business systems, such as ERP, CRM, and accounting software, to streamline data exchange and workflows across the organization.
11. Driver safety features: Provide tools for monitoring and improving driver safety, such as driver scoring, coaching programs, and alerts for risky behavior.

7 Major Benefits of Driver Management Software

Driver management software offers a range of benefits for businesses involved in fleet operations:

1. Boosted efficiency: Save time and effort by simplifying tasks like dispatching and scheduling. This makes it easier to manage your drivers and their routes effectively.
2. Increased productivity: Plan routes smartly to ensure your drivers complete more deliveries or service calls in less time. So, it helps you get more done with the same resources.
3. Savings on costs: Cut down on fuel usage, vehicle maintenance, and labor expenses by optimizing routes, tracking performance, and scheduling maintenance proactively.
4. Enhanced customer service: Keep your customers happy by providing accurate delivery times, real-time tracking updates, and clear communication throughout the delivery process.
5. Improved safety: Keep an eye on driver behavior, ensure compliance with safety regulations, and identify any risky driving habits to minimize accidents and keep everyone safe on the road.
6. Regulatory compliance: Stay on top of industry regulations for driver hours and vehicle inspections to avoid fines and penalties for non-compliance.
7. Insightful analytics: Access detailed reports and analytics to understand how your drivers are performing, where routes can be optimized, and how to make better business decisions.

6 Factors to Consider When Selecting Driver Management Software

When selecting driver management software, there are several important considerations to keep in mind to ensure you select the best solution for your needs.

Some key factors to consider include:

1. Cloud-based vs. On-premise systems

Determine whether you prefer a cloud-based driver management software or an on-premise system.

The cloud-based software offers flexibility and accessibility from anywhere with an internet connection.

On the other hand, an on-premise solution provides more control over data but requires dedicated infrastructure and maintenance.

2. Mobile app access for drivers

Assess the availability and functionality of a mobile app for drivers. Also, ensure that it offers features like route navigation, proof of delivery capture, real-time updates, and communication tools to enhance driver efficiency and customer service.

3. Hardware integrations needed

Identify any hardware integrations required, such as GPS devices, barcode scanners, or electronic signature pads. Checking this helps to ensure compatibility with the driver management software.

4. Customizability vs. Out-of-the-box solutions

Determine whether you prefer a customizable solution that can be tailored to your specific needs or an out-of-the-box solution that offers pre-defined features and workflows.

Consider your business processes and flexibility requirements when making this decision.

5. Implementation and training needs

Evaluate the complexity of implementation and the training needs associated with deploying the software across your organization.

Look for vendors that offer comprehensive onboarding support, training resources, and ongoing assistance to ensure a smooth transition.

6. Data security and compliance

Prioritize data security and compliance with regulations such as GDPR or HIPAA. You should pay special attention to this when handling sensitive customer information or personal data.

Choose a software vendor with robust security measures, encryption protocols, and compliance certifications to protect your data effectively.

How Can You Manage Your Drivers Efficiently?

Managing drivers effectively is crucial for the smooth operation of any transportation or delivery business.

Here are some best practices to manage your drivers efficiently:

• Clearly communicate expectations, schedules, routes, and any changes in procedures or policies.
• Define clear performance goals and expectations for your drivers, such as delivery targets, safety standards, and customer service benchmarks.
• Invest in continuous training and development programs for your drivers to improve their skills, knowledge, and safety awareness.
• Implement driver management software and telematics solutions to track and monitor driver performance in real time.
• Utilize GPS tracking, route optimization, and driver behavior analytics to improve efficiency, safety, and productivity.
• Enforce safety protocols, conduct regular vehicle inspections, and provide safety equipment and training to minimize accidents and injuries on the road.
• Implement incentive programs, bonuses, and awards for achieving goals, maintaining safety records, and delivering exceptional service.
• Stay informed about industry regulations, licensing requirements, and compliance standards relevant to your business.

How Much Does Driver Management Software Cost?

The cost of driver management software can vary depending on several factors, including the features offered, the size of your fleet, the software provider, and the pricing model (such as subscription-based or one-time purchase).

Here is a general breakdown of the cost of driver management software:

• Small fleets (1-5 vehicles) start around $20-$30 per vehicle per month for basic features like driver profiles and ELD logs.
• Mid-size fleets (6-50 vehicles) range from $15-$25 per vehicle per month, offering added features like dispatching and analytics.
• Large enterprise fleets (50+ vehicles) range from $10-$20 per vehicle per month, with volume discounts and advanced capabilities.
• Setup fees range from $500 to $5,000+, with ongoing support costs.

Embrace Driver Management Software for Enhanced Efficiency and Success

Managing drivers presents numerous challenges, from the growing demand for fast delivery to the increasing driver shortage.

However, with the advent of driver management software, businesses now have powerful tools to overcome these challenges. Upper, Driveroo, FleetWave, and other leading driver management systems offer a range of features to streamline operations, enhance safety, and improve efficiency.

Whether you’re a small business or a large enterprise, investing in driver management software can provide significant benefits, including cost savings, improved productivity, and enhanced customer satisfaction.

So, explore the advanced features of driver management software by taking a 7 days free trial and experience how these features can benefit you by automating your driver management operations.