MaxOptra vs Podfather

MaxOptra is cloud-based route optimisation and delivery management software for fleet operators, positioned for mid-market distribution, service, and delivery operations. Its route sequences account for time windows, vehicle types, and load capacity. Teams can build multi-drop plans automatically or manually, as well as fixed routes. Customer communication includes email and SMS ETA notifications and automated progress updates. The Driver App for iOS and Android provides job notifications, tracking, live reporting, and proof of delivery. Electronic proof of delivery stores signatures, confirmations, photos, and comments. An open API and CSV uploads support links to telematics, ePOD, SOP, ERP, WMS, and CRM systems; named integrations include TomTom, Geotab, Quartix, Microsoft Dynamics, SuperOffice, and Geopal. The service is available through web browsers worldwide and is offered by subscription. MaxOptra says it conforms with UK DPA 2018 (GDPR) and hosts infrastructure within the EEA. Customers receive a dedicated Implementation Manager, UK-routed support, and online support documentation. The package listed for fleets of fewer than five vehicles costs £200 a month on a 12-month contract. A free trial is available, but there is no free plan.

Podfather is a delivery management system for planning, managing and monitoring fleet deliveries. Route optimisation accounts for multi-stop routes, delivery windows and vehicle capacity. Jobs can be entered manually, imported from spreadsheets or submitted through a customer portal on a customer website. The Android and iOS driver app provides job details, vehicle checks, driver tracking and electronic proof of delivery. Drivers can capture signatures, barcode scans, photos, discrepancies, timestamps and GPS locations. Customers can receive ETA notices and live tracking links by text or email. Dashboards report planned versus actual performance and On Time In Full measures. Integrations connect ERP, sales-order, warehouse-management and invoicing systems through web services or sFTP, using XML, JSON or CSV. Podfather offers web and API access. It says it follows UK GDPR, the Data Protection Act 2018 and PECR, and uses an ISO 27001-certified information security management system. Pricing is on request; the pricing page recommends more than 10 vehicles and states there is no daily route limit.