Finding an Integrated Software Solution for Diversified Operations

Similar to many carriers, Farwest Freight had been using a customized software solution created specifically for each service area of their operation. The company was not able to share information across different departments and updating the system with new features was a costly option.

“Before moving to TruckMate™ our company was running 4 different customized programs that did not share information and financial statements were not handled internally,” said Becki Wolford. ”The software did not provide the flexibility we needed to venture into new industries and take advantage of opportunities.”

Farwest built their business on adapting to changes in the trucking industry and providing the services most in demand from customers. To maintain a high level of growth over the long-term Farwest needed a software solution that would help eliminate internal inefficiencies.

“We choose TruckMate™ to eliminate double entry of data, provide access to information across multiple departments and have a consistent flow of information from operations to accounting,” explained Wolford

Flexible Software with Seamless Accounting Integration

All trucking companies are required to deal with a great deal of operational information on a daily basis. Successful fleets are able to manage this seemingly endless flow of data and ensure the information needed is easily accessible throughout the organization. A crucial aspect of this kind of information management is a two-way flow of information from operations to the accounting side of the business.

“Unlike many industry specific financial packages the accounting portion of TruckMate™ is very strong,” said Wolford who has previously held the position of CFO at Farwest. “We have the ability to view freight bill details from within accounts receivables and easily share billing information across multiple departments.”

Other advantages of the accounting package in TruckMate™ cited by Wolford included: the ability to easily reclassify payables to the correct invoice, the powerful auditing capability and flexible financial management reporting.

Being a diversified carrier has also enabled Farwest to benefit from the flexibility of TruckMate™ operations while focusing on their core LTL business. Farwest uses the LTL features in TruckMate™ to optimize pickup-delivery routes, maximize trailer utilization and organize the consolidation of shipments at the company warehouse.

“It is difficult to find software that can handle LTL, TL, container movements and logistics services,” added Wolford. “I liked the fact the Maddocks solution is capable of handling every aspect of our operation and provides the flexibility to expand our services

Impressive Growth During Tough Economic Conditions

Farwest has experienced tremendous growth by offering a unique range of services and focusing on providing customized transportation solutions. Over the period of five years starting in 1998, Farwest saw revenues increase by over 60% and recorded actual revenues of $27 Million in 2004.

“Partnering with a TMW has enabled us to manage growth, control information and maintain efficiencies,” explained Wolford. “TMW is dedicated to continuously improving their product which puts us on a level playing field with the largest carriers that invest heavily in customized software.”

Future plans at Farwest include expanding the online services they provide to customers and continuing to expand the brokerage side of their operation.