Top Upper Alternatives for Route Optimization in 2024

We all strive for perfection, especially when choosing the right route optimization software for our business. 

Finding the perfect software that not only meets our needs but also exceeds our expectations can feel like a daunting task. Isn’t it?

Upper has consistently been a strong player in the route optimization industry, making daily routing operations smoother and more efficient for businesses of all sizes. But let’s face it: No single tool fits every need.

Every business has its unique challenges and priorities. What works brilliantly for one might not be the best fit for another. Maybe you’re looking for a specific feature, need a different pricing plan, or just want to explore other options. Whatever the reason, it’s worth considering what else is out there.

So, we’re here to help you with that. We’ll dive into the strengths of Upper, highlight its limitations, and present four great Upper Route Planner alternatives.

Let’s start by looking at what Upper does well and where it might fall short. Then, we’ll explore other route planning & route scheduling software solutions that might be just what you’re looking for.

💡Not sure if Upper is the perfect fit? Let’s chat and see if it’s the right match for your needs.

Introduction to Route Optimization Tools

Route optimization is the process of arranging multiple stops in the most efficient sequence, considering location, delivery time windows, priority, drivers’ shifts, and vehicle capacity specifics. 

Route optimization software helps you achieve route optimization for a delivery business and provides the following benefits:

1. Decreases operational costs by creating optimal multi-stop delivery routes that reduce travel time and distance and minimize backtracking or idling.
2. Allow you to edit routes based on real-time changes, including congestion, emergency-like accidents, and inclement weather conditions.
3. Enable you to analyze route performances through data-driven insights, identify inefficiencies, and make informed decisions to eliminate them and improve delivery operations.
4. Let you minimize your carbon footprint by cutting down on fuel consumption and project yourself as an eco-conscious business owner. 

Key Features of Upper’s Route Optimization

Let’s dive into what makes Upper stand out in route optimization. 

We’ve built our software based on real feedback from businesses like yours, focusing on what truly matters in day-to-day operations.

1. Best-in-class route algorithms

When we talk to businesses about what they need, the top request is obviously better route optimization. That’s why we’ve put so much effort into making our algorithm the best.

Upper doesn’t just find the shortest path; it considers real-world factors like traffic patterns, delivery time windows, driver availability, and other preferences.

Imagine cutting your delivery times by 30%. 

One of our meal delivery clients, Chef Nicole Miami, achieved that with Upper. More deliveries mean happier customers and better business.

With Upper: 

• No more backtracking or unnecessary detours. Our optimized routes mean smoother, stress-free deliveries for your team.
• We constantly refine our algorithm using AI to ensure you get the best results every time.

2. User-friendly design

We believe powerful route planning software doesn’t have to be complicated. Upper’s clean, intuitive design means you can optimize routes within minutes, not days. 

There is no need for extensive training or IT support.

Quick adjustments: Our drag-and-drop feature lets you make quick adjustments to routes with ease. Need to prioritize a last-minute delivery? Just drag it to the top of the list, and Upper will re-optimize your route instantly.

Many users appreciate how they can dive right in without extensive training.

“What I like the most about Upper is how easy it is for me to use. It has been of a lot of help to me and when teaching the delivery drivers how to use it, it is easy for them to understand.”

– Hector R., Pharmacy Delivery Business.

3. Comprehensive planning options

Every business is unique, and your route planner should reflect that.  

Whether you’re managing a fleet of trucks or a handful of delivery vans, your needs are specific to you. Upper’s flexible route planning software allows you to tailor routes to your requirements.

We offer customizable constraints like vehicle capacity, driver schedules, and delivery time windows. You can even set specific service times for different types of stops.

4. Real-time tracking capabilities

We understand how important it is for you to stay on top of your deliveries. 

That’s why we offer real-time tracking. With this, you can watch your deliveries unfold live and quickly address any issues. 

• With real-time tracking, you have full visibility over your deliveries. If a driver hits unexpected traffic, you can reroute them immediately. 
• We also know you want to keep your customers happy and informed. With Upper, your clients get automatic updates about their delivery status, which means fewer “Where’s my delivery?” calls. 

5. Tailored solutions for every need

We know that every business is unique. That’s why we offer a range of solutions designed to fit different needs.

• For solo operators, the Upper Solo app is perfect. It helps you optimize your routes in minutes, adapt to changes on the fly, and manage proofs of delivery effortlessly. We offer both a web app and a mobile app for this one.

• Upper Crew is here to streamline communication and route management if you’re working with a team.

• For smaller tasks, our Free Route Planner lets you plan routes for up to 20 stops without cost. It’s a great way to start optimizing without any commitment.

• And if you’re a Google Maps user, check out our Google Maps Route Optimization Extension. It integrates seamlessly with Google Maps to help you plan routes more effectively, saving you time and fuel with just a click.

Do you use Google Maps? 

We’ve written a handy blog on How to Use Google Maps Route Planner, packed with tips to help you get the most out of it.

No matter your size or needs, we have a solution to make your multi-stop route planning easier and more efficient.

6. Excellent customer support

We’re not just selling software; we’re your partners in optimization. Our support team is always ready to help, with most queries resolved within hours, not days.

Don’t just take our word for it. 

Here’s what Charlie, Office Manager at an insurance company, had to say: “Upper’s support team is incredible. They’ve helped us customize the software to fit our unique needs, and they’re always there when we have questions.”

7. Flexible pricing model

We know that budgets vary and want to offer solutions that fit different business sizes and needs. 

Hence, we provide several pricing plans tailored to various requirements, ensuring you get the best value for your money.

Whether you’re a startup or a large enterprise, we have a plan that fits. You can start small and expand as your business grows. 

Remember, while Upper excels in these areas, finding the solution that best fits your needs is important. 

In the next section, we’ll examine some potential limitations of Upper because we believe in giving you the full picture so you can make an informed decision.

Understanding the Drawbacks of Upper

While we’re proud of Upper’s strengths, we also believe in transparency. No software is perfect for every situation, and Upper is no exception. 

Let’s look at some areas where Upper might not be the ideal fit for certain businesses:

1. Limited Multi-day Routing

Upper handles daily routes easily, and you can plan multiple days. 

However, if you need complex multi-day routing with automatic scheduling over weeks or months, you might find our current features a bit basic.

For example, a field service company that needs to automatically optimize technician visits over a month while balancing various constraints might need a more specialized solution. 

We’re actively working on enhancing our multi-day routing capabilities, so stay tuned for updates!

2. Barcode scanning

Currently, Upper doesn’t offer built-in barcode scanning. For many of our users, this isn’t an issue at all. Our proof of delivery features, including photo capture and signature collection, meet most needs for delivery confirmation.

However, if your operations heavily rely on scanning individual packages or products throughout delivery, you might need to use a separate barcode scanning app alongside Upper.

We’re exploring adding this feature in the future based on user demand. Connect with us and discuss your requirements.

3. Integration challenges

We’re proud of our growing list of integrations. Upper currently integrates seamlessly with popular e-commerce platforms like Shopify and WooCommerce. We also offer API access for custom integrations.

That said, if you’re using specific CRM or ERP systems, you’ll want to check if we support direct integration. 

We’re constantly adding new integrations based on user demand, so if you don’t see what you need, let us know!

4. On-demand delivery limitations

Upper excels at pre-planned routes, which is perfect for most delivery businesses. Our system allows for same-day routing and quick adjustments to handle many last-minute changes.

However, suppose your business model relies heavily on real-time, on-demand delivery assignments (like a food delivery service where orders come in continuously throughout the day). You might find Upper’s current features a bit limited in that case. 

We’re great for businesses that can plan routes a few hours in advance but not ideal for minute-by-minute dispatching.

Remember, depending on your specific needs, these limitations might not affect your business. And we’re constantly working to improve Upper based on user feedback.

We’ve made significant strides in addressing some of these areas recently. In our next section, we’ll dive into the exciting updates and new features we’ve rolled out in 2024, which have transformed Upper in many ways.

Evolution of Upper in 2024

We’ve listened to your feedback and worked hard to improve Upper in 2024. 

Let’s discuss some of the exciting new features and updates that could really benefit your business.

New Features and Improvements

1. Vehicle load capacity optimization

Remember the days of guesstimating (Guess-estimating) how much you could fit in each truck? Those days are gone! 

Our new vehicle load capacity optimization feature can help you utilize your vehicle capacity to the fullest.

• Intelligent algorithms balance your loads and routes
• Custom capacity settings for weight, volume, or any other constraint
• Result? More deliveries per trip, less fuel burned, and happier customers

James Wilson from Gas-One Inc. tells us, “Upper transformed our operations. We’re delivering the same load with fewer trucks.”

2. In-transit route edits: Flexibility at your fingertips

Life happens, and routes change. Now, you can roll with the punches. Our new in-transit route edits feature lets you:

• Add or remove multiple stops on the fly
• Change stop sequences mid-route
• Instantly update your drivers’ apps

No more stressing about last-minute changes. You’ve got this!

3. Customizable delivery zones

No more driver overlap, only efficient routing. With our new delivery zoning feature, you can:

• Create ‘allowed’ and ‘restricted’ zones/territories for each driver
• Ensure compliance with local regulations
• Reduce unnecessary mileage and increase profits

It’s like giving each of your drivers their own optimized territory.

4. Enhanced crew communication tools

Changes happen, but now you can keep your customers informed en masse. Our new bulk SMS feature lets you:

• Send updates to multiple customers at once
• Explain delays or changes quickly and easily
• Maintain transparency and enhance customer satisfaction

Happy customers, less phone tag.

5. Upper Route Planner app for Shopify: Seamless e-commerce integration

Got a Shopify store? We’ve got you covered. Our new Shopify app integration means:

• Automatic import of orders as delivery stops
• Route optimization right from your Shopify dashboard
• A seamless flow from online order to doorstep delivery

6. Crew chat: communication central

Keep your team connected with our new Crew Chat feature. Now you can:

• Message all your drivers in one place
• Solve problems faster with instant communication
• No more app-switching to stay in touch

It works like a command center for your delivery operations.

But wait, there’s more! We’ve also made Upper smoother, faster, and prettier:

• Enhanced stability for a reliable experience
• Faster load times and snappier interactions
• A sleeker, more intuitive user interface
• Various bug fixes to keep things running smoothly

These updates aren’t just about adding delivery features – they’re about improving Upper’s work. We’ve listened to your feedback and evolved to meet your changing needs.

But we’re not stopping here. We’re already working on what’s next, including exploring options for barcode scanning and even more advanced multi-day routing.

Want to see these new features in action? Why not give our updated platform a try? 

We offer a free trial with no strings attached so you can experience firsthand how the new Upper can transform your operations.

Next, we’ll explore some of the top alternatives to Upper so you can see how we stack up against the competition and find the best fit for your needs. 

Top Alternatives to Upper Route Planner

Route4Me for Complex Routing

Route4Me is a veteran in the route optimization game, offering extensive features for businesses of all sizes. It’s known for its powerful optimization engine and extensive customization options. 

If you’re looking for a solution that can handle intricate routing scenarios or last-mile delivery functionalities, Route4Me might catch your eye.

Advanced Functionality and Overview:

In speaking with users who have used both Route4Me and Upper, certain strengths of Route4Me have become clear. 

1. Advanced multi-day routing

Route4Me excels in planning and optimizing routes that span multiple days, which is particularly useful for businesses that need to schedule deliveries, services, or visits over several weeks or months. 

2. Barcode scanning and inventory management

Route4Me includes built-in barcode scanning features, enabling precise inventory tracking and package management throughout delivery.

3. Highly customizable reporting and analytics

Route4Me provides advanced reporting and analytics, allowing users to generate customized reports and visualize data in various formats.

💡If these features sound intriguing, but you’re curious about other options, check out these Route4Me alternatives.

Comparative Analysis with Upper

From what we’ve learned talking to users who prefer Upper, there are key areas where it offers benefits that Route4Me might not. 

1. Inclusive route optimization: Unlike Route4Me, Upper includes route optimization in its base plan. You get optimized routes right from the start without additional costs.
2. User-friendly interface: Upper’s modern and intuitive interface makes it easier for teams to navigate and use efficiently, unlike Route4Me’s often criticized cluttered design.
3. Affordable add-ons: Upper offers reasonably priced add-ons for crucial features like text customer notifications and vehicle capacity optimization, which are significantly more expensive with Route4Me.
4. Stable mobile app: Upper’s mobile app is known for its stability and performance, ensuring smooth delivery operations without the disruptions reported by Route4Me users.
5. Accurate ETA predictions: Upper provides highly accurate ETA predictions, helping you maintain timely deliveries. Route4Me has occasional inaccuracies in this area.
6. Dedicated customer support: Upper includes dedicated customer support in its standard service, assisting without extra charges. Route4Me offers this as an expensive add-on.

💡To explore how Upper stands up to Route4Me and find out which option might be better for your business, look at our blog on Upper Vs. Route4Me.

Pricing: 

Route4Me’s pricing starts at $40/user/month, with a minimum of $200/month for 5 users. More advanced plans, including route optimization and business optimization features, are available, starting at $60/user/month.

Use Case Scenarios

Route4Me is best suited for large logistics operations that require extensive customization and flexibility. Businesses with complex routing needs and various vehicle types will benefit most from its advanced capabilities.

But let’s be real – not everyone needs all those bells and whistles. 

If you’re a small to medium-sized business looking for a straightforward, effective solution without the complexity, you might find Upper more your speed. It offers a great balance of features and usability without breaking the bank.

OptimoRoute for High-Volume Needs

OptimoRoute is a route planning and optimization platform designed for businesses with sophisticated delivery needs. 

It excels in handling high-volume operations and intricate logistics, making it ideal for larger organizations with expansive delivery networks.

Features and Benefits

• Handles thousands of orders: If your operations involve a high volume of deliveries, OptimoRoute excels in managing more stops and orders, making it a strong choice for large-scale enterprises.
• Advanced routing capabilities: OptimoRoute offers features like multi-day routes and specific vehicle routing, covering complex scheduling needs that might not be as thoroughly addressed elsewhere.
• Barcode scanning: Simplify order confirmation and delivery tracking with the ability to scan barcodes or QR codes directly through the driver’s app.
• Return to depot scheduling: For businesses needing frequent restocking, OptimoRoute allows for mid-day returns to the depot, optimizing efficiency throughout the day.
• Detailed driver profiles: Get in-depth profiles for drivers, including their schedules and vehicle types, which is useful for managing field operations effectively.
• Customer feedback integration: Collect and analyze customer feedback on deliveries to gauge performance and drive improvements based on real user insights.

💡 OptimoRoute certainly has its strengths, but depending on your specific requirements, some OptimoRoute alternatives are worth considering.

Use Case Scenarios

• Superior route quality: Upper creates clear, non-overlapping routes, ensuring drivers follow straightforward paths. OptimoRoute’s routes can sometimes be crisscrossed and confusing.
• In-app navigation: Upper’s app integrates navigation, allowing drivers to stay focused without switching to external tools. OptimoRoute lacks this feature.
• Better annual pricing discounts: Upper offers a 20% discount on annual plans, compared to OptimoRoute’s 10%, providing more savings for long-term commitments.
• A higher degree of customizability: Upper allows extensive customization for drivers, stops, and contacts, while OptimoRoute’s options are more limited.
• Intuitive user interface: Upper’s interface is user-friendly and easy to navigate, whether new or experienced. OptimoRoute’s interface can be cluttered and less straightforward.
• More customer support options: Upper offers extensive support, including live chat, priority email, and technical consulting. OptimoRoute’s support is more limited.

💡If you’re weighing your options between Upper and OptimoRoute, our detailed comparison blog, Upper vs. OptimoRoute, offers a thorough look at both platforms.

Pricing:

OptimoRoute’s pricing plans start at $35.10 per driver per month for essential features, with a Pro version at $44.10 monthly. Custom pricing is available for large-scale needs.

Ideal use case:

OptimoRoute is best suited for medium to large businesses that require advanced routing features and the ability to handle thousands of orders.

Businesses in industries like field service, logistics, and distribution can particularly benefit from OptimoRoute’s specialized capabilities.

Routific for Simplicity and Cost Efficiency

Ideal for Small Businesses

Routific is a route planning software designed to streamline delivery operations for businesses across various industries. It optimizes multiple routes based on traffic patterns and driver constraints, helping reduce delivery times compared to manual planning. 

Routific’s simplicity and user-friendly interface make it a good choice for businesses with basic routing needs.

Competitive Edge

1. Simplicity and ease of use

If you’re looking for software that’s straightforward to get started with, Routific stands out. Its interface is designed to be intuitive, so even if you’re not tech-savvy, you can get up and running quickly. 

2. Cost-effective for smaller operations

One of Routific’s key advantages is its more affordable pricing structure. 

Routific’s plans start at $39 per vehicle per month. This makes it an attractive option for small businesses with tight budgets, especially if you don’t need the advanced features that Upper offers for just $1 more.

However, beyond pricing, Routific doesn’t offer much that surpasses Upper. While Routific is a solid choice for simpler needs, it’s worth noting that Upper offers more advanced features that could be valuable as your business grows.

💡  If you’re curious about how Routific compares to other alternatives, check out our blogs on Routific alternatives and Route4Me vs. Routific.

Why Upper might still be a better fit than Routific

Choosing the right tool isn’t just about what you need today—it’s also about what you’ll need as you grow. If you’re looking for a solution that adapts to you, offers advanced features, and gives you more control, Upper could be the better choice.

1. Advanced features for growing businesses

As your business expands, you might need more than what Routific offers.

Upper’s real-time fleet tracking software, such as real-time tracking and delivery zoning, let you manage your operations with greater detail and flexibility, helping you stay efficient even as you scale.

2. More customization and flexibility

No two businesses are alike, and neither are their delivery needs. 

Upper lets you customize routes, set specific zones, and adjust on the fly—something you might find limiting with simpler tools like Routific.

3. Scalability for the long-term

Thinking long-term? Upper is built to grow with you. 

Whether you’re a small team or a large enterprise, our plans and features are designed to keep up with your evolving needs.

💡To explore how Upper compares to Routific, here is a great resource on Upper vs. Routific.

Pricing:

Routific’s pricing starts at $49 per vehicle/month, with discounts for annual billing and tiers up to $69 for advanced features like live GPS tracking and API integrations.

Ideal use case:

Routific is best suited for smaller businesses with straightforward delivery needs and limited budgets. 

Suppose your company has more complex routing requirements, a larger fleet, or a need for advanced features. In that case, Upper may be the better choice for streamlining your delivery operations and optimizing costs.

Onfleet for On-Deliveries

Onfleet is route planning and delivery management software designed for businesses with high-volume delivery operations. It offers on-demand service features, including automated driver assignment, dispatch, and customer self-service options.

Key Advantages

• Automated driver dispatch: Onfleet excels at automatically assigning and dispatching drivers for on-demand deliveries. Driver dispatch app‘s feature helps businesses with high order volumes, automate operations, and enhance customer service.
• User-friendly driver app: Onfleet’s driver app is noted for its intuitive design, which makes it easy for drivers to navigate routes and reduces the time needed for training.
• Barcode scanning and age verification: For those in industries like alcohol or cannabis delivery, Onfleet’s barcode scanning and in-app age verification are crucial. These features ensure compliance with legal requirements and provide added security at the point of delivery.
• Customer feedback collection: Onfleet allows you to gather feedback directly from customers about their delivery experience. This tool helps you measure service quality and pinpoint areas for improvement.

💡If you’re exploring beyond Onfleet, our blog on Onfleet alternatives offers a closer look at other viable options. 

If OptimoRoute is also on your radar, our Onfleet vs. OptimoRoute comparison can help you see how these two compare.

Comparative Insights

• Tailored customization: Upper offers customization options like custom fields and in-app navigation. These features let you adjust the system to fit your exact needs, unlike Onfleet.
• Clear pricing: Upper’s straightforward pricing is more budget-friendly, with potential savings of up to 20% through annual billing. Onfleet’s higher initial costs can be a drawback.
• Responsive support: Upper provides live technical support for quick issue resolution, whereas Onfleet relies on email support, which can be slower.
• Efficient route optimization: Upper’s route optimization and real-time adjustments are well-suited for complex delivery scenarios, offering more precise routing than Onfleet.
• Clear communication: Upper supports SMS and email notifications, improving customer engagement and transparency. Onfleet only offers SMS.
• In-depth analytics: Upper’s unlimited historical data helps you gain detailed insights into trends and customer behavior, unlike Onfleet’s limited data.

💡Still deciding? 

If you’re still on the fence, our Upper vs. Onfleet blog might provide the clarity you need.

Pricing: 

Onfleet’s pricing starts at $550/month for up to 2,000 tasks, scaling up based on feature needs and task volumes.

Ideal use case:

Onfleet is best suited for businesses with large volumes of on-demand deliveries, such as food delivery services or e-commerce companies with high order turnovers. 

However, suppose your business has more complex routing requirements, greater customization, or a desire for enhanced driver performance tracking and customer communication tools. In that case, Upper is a better fit.

Essential Features to Look for in Route Optimization Software

When choosing route optimization software, it’s important to understand what basic features you should expect. 

Here’s a quick rundown of the standard features that can make a big difference in managing your routes effectively. 

• Automated route planning: To automatically generate the most efficient delivery routes to save time and fuel.
• Real-time traffic updates: Access live traffic data to reroute drivers and avoid delays.
• GPS fleet tracking: To monitor vehicle locations to ensure accurate delivery tracking and route optimization.
• Dynamic route adjustments: To adjust routes on the fly to handle changes and maintain efficiency.
• Geocoding: Convert addresses into precise map locations for accurate routing.
• Driver communication: To use integrated messaging to keep drivers updated with real-time instructions.
• Customer updates: To provide real-time delivery updates to keep customers informed and satisfied.
• Reporting and analytics: To get detailed insights into route performance to identify improvements.

Now that you know what features are essential, the next step is figuring out which routing software best fits your business needs. 

Let’s explore the next section to learn how to choose the right route optimization software for your unique requirements.

Choosing the Right Route Optimization Software

Let’s discuss how to pick the right route planners for your business. With so many options that we explored, finding a solution that matches your needs and goals is essential. 

Here’s a simple guide to help you make the best choice:

1. Evaluating your business needs

Start by figuring out what you need the software to do. 

Are you looking to optimize routes, track your fleet in real time, or keep customers updated? Make a list of the features that matter most to you.

2. Do some research 

Look up different software options. Read reviews, compare features, and ask other businesses for their recommendations. This will help you narrow down your choices to the most promising options.

3. Check usability 

Choose software that’s easy to use. You don’t want to waste time figuring out a complicated interface. Look for an intuitive solution that comes with good training and support resources.

4. Think about growth 

Consider your business’s future. Pick software that can grow with you. Look for options that offer flexible pricing and can add new features as your needs change.

5. Evaluate integration 

Ensure the software can integrate smoothly with your existing systems, like CRM or eCommerce platforms. Good integration helps streamline your processes and avoid errors.

6. Assess pricing models and features

Compare pricing models to find one that fits your budget. Some software options have flat fees, while others charge based on usage or per user. Ensure you understand the cost structure and get good value for your money.

7. Trial and Feedback: Making Informed Choices

If possible, take advantage of free trials or demos. Before committing, this lets you test the software and see if it meets your needs.

8. Look at customer feedback 

Read customer reviews to understand the software’s performance and support. Both positive and negative feedback can provide valuable insights.

Choosing the right route optimization software is about finding the right balance between features, ease of use, and cost. 

By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to picking a solution that enhances your logistics and supports your business growth.

Conclusion and Recommendations

In summary, Upper offers robust route optimization with features like real-time tracking, flexible planning, and a user-friendly interface, but it might not be the perfect fit for everyone.

Depending on your specific needs—advanced multi-day routing, barcode scanning, or highly customizable analytics—you may find other solutions like Route4Me, OptimoRoute, or Routific to be more suitable.

We encourage you to explore these options to find the best match for your business. Remember, the right tool aligns with your unique requirements and helps you achieve your goals efficiently.