When discussing automation, market parties frequently reference TMS (Transport Management System) and TOS (Terminal Operating System) solutions. In many cases, the Modality system constitutes a unique combination of the two. Terminals often manage transport as well, while inland operators may sometimes require TOS functionalities. This article explains how the various features within Modality can be categorised in line with commonly used TOS and TMS terminology.
The Modality system from a TMS and TOS perspective
The processes in inland container logistics can be functionally divided into two domains:
TMS – focused on transport flows and administrative processing
TOS – focused on terminal management and operational execution
Within Modality, both domains are integrated components of a single architecture. In the paragraphs below, we will outline which functionalities are associated with each domain.
TMS functionalities within Modality
The TMS functionalities within Modality support the transport process from order entry to invoicing. The system digitises order processing, planning and administrative tasks, reduces the need for manual data entry and provides real-time visibility into the progress of transport, allowing for proactive operational control in these areas.
Order entry and data processing
Customer orders can be automatically registered via EDI and API interfaces, through OCR recognition of PDF documents or via the client portal. The submitted order data forms the foundation for subsequent planning and administrative processes.
Order data can be enriched with external information, such as real-time vessel data or status updates. As a result, the planning department has accurate and up-to-date information at its disposal. The Modality Customer Service Monitor provides a clear overview, so that high-priority orders can be better managed and any missing data can be identified.
Customer Service Monitor Modality
Transport planning
The Modality system supports planning across all modes of transport: container transport by barge, rail and truck. Among other things, the system can be used to:
- Optimise planning through algorithms
- Monitor transport progress in real time via our mobile apps (barge app, truck app)
- Gain direct access to signed documents, including the e-CMR
Furthermore, Modality allows users to directly send pre-notifications to deepsea terminals via EDI for the delivery and/or collection of containers.
Rates and invoicing
The Modality system streamlines both sales invoicing and the verification of purchase invoices. Revenue lines are automatically generated for each shipment; they are based on sales rates and can easily be converted into invoices. Furthermore, invoices can be automatically generated according to customer preferences (per booking, per trip, monthly, etc.). When generating and sending invoices, recognised E-invoicing standards (ZUGFeRD, Peppol, UBL, Invoic) are supported.
When the purchase rates from the various carriers are entered into the system, the Modality system links these rates to the various planned/executed transports. This allows for a high degree of automation in the purchasing verification for outsourced transport.
TOS functionalities within Modality
The TOS functionalities within Modality support the management, registration and optimisation of terminal processes. The system helps digitise daily terminal operations, reduces unnecessary handling operations and minimises dependence on individual working methods.
Our TOS functionalities can be grouped into the following categories:
Yard and stack Management
The Modality system provides a graphical overview of the terminal, displaying container positions, stack layouts and available capacity in real time. Container movements are registered immediately, ensuring a continuously up-to-date overview of the terminal inventory.
Key features include:
- Efficient planning of loading and unloading sequences
- Minimising unnecessary handling operations
- Optimising the use of available stack space
- Real-time visibility into current container status
In addition, the system allows for the use of predefined stacking rules. Based on these rules, containers automatically receive a stack advice, taking into account factors such as destination, loading sequence and container type.
By incorporating these rules in the system, a consistent operational approach is established. As a result, the stack layout becomes less dependent on individual decisions and is better geared to planned transport movements.
The Modality system supports yard and stack management
Gate control and access
Incoming and outgoing landside movements are digitally recorded through the Gate Control module. Combined with OCR software, trucks and containers are automatically recognised and processed within the Modality system.
Key features include:
- Automatic registration of ‘Gate-in’ and ‘Gate-out’ statuses
- Recognition of license plates, chassis numbers and container numbers through OCR
- Verification of expected truck/container combinations
- Automatic opening of barriers or speed gates after successful registration
In addition to OCR solutions, self-service kiosks can be integrated with the Gate Control module. Drivers can independently register their arrival and indicate whether they are delivering or collecting a container. The system verifies the booking and automatically enriches the data based on the available order information.
Operational support via terminal applications
Loading and unloading activities are supported through specific applications for crane operators, reach stacker drivers and terminal tractor drivers. These applications are directly integrated with planning and stacking data within the system.
Key features include:
- Display of loading and unloading lists for barges and trains
- Insight into planned container movements
- Container-level search functionality
- Real-time registration of loading and unloading activities
- Autonomous trip selection for terminal tractor drivers
Access to loading sequences and stacking positions enables operators to select the most efficient positions, thus minimising the number of required handling operations.
Applications support the loading and unloading activities of reach stacker drivers
Quay planning
For terminals handling multiple barges or trains simultaneously, the system facilitates the planning of berths and quay operations.
Key features include:
- Insight into berth occupancy
- Planning of arrival and departure times
- Coordination between quay planning and stack layout
- Integration with loading and unloading lists
As a result, available quay capacity is optimally used and physical handling and transport planning are fully synchronised.
Customs and additional registrations
For terminals offering additional services, the Modality system also supports:
- Bonded warehouse and customs administration
- Registration of container repairs
- Recording of gas measurements
- Registration of inspections and other checks
These registrations are part of the same system environment, allowing for operational and administrative data to be centrally managed and making them immediately available for reporting and auditing.
TOS and TMS in a single system environment
Within Modality, TOS and TMS functionalities are not separate systems; they are integrated components of a single environment.
In practice, these functionalities overlap. Many inland terminals combine terminal management with their own transport operations, using both TOS and TMS functionalities within a single environment. Conversely, inland operators can expand their TMS setup with TOS-related functionalities, such as inventory or stack management, as needed for their operations.
Because information is recorded once and flows seamlessly into planning, execution and invoicing processes, operational consistency is achieved.
Do you have any questions about the configuration of your current system or specific functionalities? Please contact your designated Modality representative.
