For transport and logistics firms, efficiency isn’t optional—it’s survival. Managing vehicles, planning routes, tracking deliveries, and ensuring regulatory compliance are all mission-critical. That’s why many firms turn to tools like Samsara, Fleetio, LogiNext, and Onfleet to manage operations.
These platforms provide impressive features—but they’re not always a perfect fit. If you’ve ever found yourself wrestling with limited integrations, generic workflows, or rigid data reporting, you’re not alone.
Here’s a closer look at these systems, their strengths, their shortfalls, and why many logistics businesses are now opting for custom-built software tailored precisely to their operations.
Samsara – Fleet Tracking and Telematics
Samsara provides real-time GPS tracking, driver behaviour monitoring, and detailed telematics insights. Key features include:
- Live fleet visibility
- Driver safety scorecards
- ELD compliance (US-focused but partially UK-compatible)
- Engine diagnostics and maintenance alerts
- Dashcam and video-based safety
It’s a solid platform for companies seeking to improve fleet accountability and compliance.
Limitations:
Samsara’s strength in telematics doesn’t always translate to flexibility. Integration with job scheduling systems, client-facing delivery portals, or route optimisation software may require third-party workarounds. Licensing can also become costly at scale.
Fleetio – Vehicle Lifecycle and Maintenance Management
Fleetio focuses on vehicle lifecycle management, helping companies manage:
- Preventive maintenance schedules
- Fuel tracking and expenses
- Vehicle assignments and inspections
- Fleet performance analytics
- Service history and documentation
It’s a well-rounded solution for maintenance-focused operations.
Limitations:
Fleetio isn’t a routing or delivery tool, and integrating it with dispatch, CRM, or supply chain systems isn’t always straightforward. Its focus on maintenance leaves logistics-heavy firms needing other tools to manage their full workflow.
LogiNext – Route Planning and Optimisation
LogiNext is designed for large-scale logistics operations, offering:
- Route planning and real-time optimisation
- Delivery scheduling and ETA tracking
- Driver performance monitoring
- Dynamic rerouting during disruptions
- Heatmaps and predictive analytics
Ideal for logistics firms looking to squeeze every ounce of efficiency from their delivery routes.
Limitations:
LogiNext is highly capable but can be complex to configure and expensive to customise. If your business model deviates from standard delivery logic (e.g., multi-leg trips, specialised goods, or part-load shipments), the platform may struggle without custom development.
Onfleet – Last-Mile Delivery Management
Onfleet specialises in managing the last-mile, offering:
- Real-time driver tracking
- Proof of delivery (POD) features
- Customer SMS notifications and feedback
- Task assignments and delivery windows
- Analytics dashboards
It’s well suited to courier services, local deliveries, and gig economy models.
Limitations:
Onfleet’s strength is also its limitation—last-mile only. It doesn’t manage upstream logistics, warehousing, or fleet maintenance. Companies needing end-to-end logistics coverage often find themselves stitching together multiple tools.
Why Custom Logistics Software Might Be the Smarter Route
Off-the-shelf tools like these are often built for the “average” logistics firm. But if your operations involve unique constraints—such as specialised freight, cross-border compliance, multi-modal transport, or complex warehousing—you’ll likely run into compromises.
If you’re facing:
- Disconnected systems across departments
- Manual processes that slow down dispatch
- Poor integration with your clients or partners
- Inflexible route planning or tracking tools
- Frustration with generic reporting tools
…it might be time to invest in custom software that fits your business—not the other way around.
Shoothill: Bespoke Software for Transport & Logistics
At Shoothill, we design and build logistics platforms that are shaped around your fleet, your workflows, and your business goals. Whether you need integrated route optimisation, vehicle tracking, driver scheduling, or real-time customer portals, we create unified solutions that give you full control.
With Shoothill, you can:
- Unify fleet management, dispatch, and delivery tracking
- Integrate directly with your CRM, ERP, or third-party carriers
- Automate custom compliance and safety reporting
- Create real-time customer-facing delivery dashboards
- Build for scale, complexity, and long-term ROI
Stop Adapting to Generic Platforms—Start Building What You Actually Need
If your software is creating silos or forcing workarounds, it’s time for something purpose-built.
🔹 Get in touch with Shoothill today and discover how custom software can make your logistics operations leaner, faster, and future-ready.
