Interview with Carlos Moreno: Leading Transport Transformation with SAP Transportation Management

1. Carlos, could you briefly tell us what your role is at Westernacher and how you support your clients in optimising their logistics processes?

As Practice Director at Westernacher, my role focuses on supporting our clients in defining and implementing logistics strategies. I work directly with them to understand their operational and technological challenges, and together we design a plan that combines industry best practices with SAP capabilities — from strategic planning to the implementation of solutions such as EWM, TM or IBP. Our goal is to ensure that each solution is scalable, aligned with the business, and delivers a tangible return, both for business teams and IT.

2. What are the main challenges companies face today when managing their logistics?

One of the biggest challenges continues to be logistics planning, which in many organisations is still a manual, reactive process that relies heavily on individual experience. This leads to inefficiencies, lack of agility, and a high operational workload for teams. Automating these processes is key.

For example, in transport planning and loading/unloading operations, we have seen how tools such as SAP TM have transformed planners’ daily work. Tasks that used to take several hours can now be completed in minutes, freeing up to 80% of operational time and allowing teams to focus on planning quality and managing unexpected events.

Another challenge worth highlighting is the lack of end-to-end visibility across the supply chain. Many companies still rely on emails, phone calls and duplicated documents to coordinate with customers and carriers. Investing in integrated systems such as SAP makes it possible to connect all stakeholders in real time, reducing errors, improving collaboration and making the supply chain far more agile.

3. What specific benefits does SAP TM bring to logistics transformation projects?

SAP TM is a very comprehensive solution with many years of proven performance. It allows companies to manage the entire transport lifecycle: from demand generation through to carrier invoicing. Companies that implement it typically see a reduction in operational costs (between 5% and 15%), greater control and traceability, and improved regulatory compliance. In addition, because it integrates with other SAP systems, it becomes a key element for a truly connected supply chain.

4. Are there any industries where you see faster adoption of SAP TM?

Manufacturing has been investing in SAP TM for years, mainly due to its integration with production and warehousing. Retail has accelerated significantly over the past decade, especially due to e-commerce challenges and pressure on delivery lead times. More recently, the pharmaceutical sector has been finding SAP TM to be a key tool for ensuring traceability, safety and regulatory compliance within its logistics operations.

5. Could you share a success story that you feel represents the impact of SAP TM?

Of course — the case of CELSA Group in Spain is highly representative. They implemented SAP TM together with Freight Collaboration, and the results speak for themselves: a 5% reduction in loading times, 35% less waiting time for lorries, improved on-time delivery to 84%, and a reduction in transport costs close to 10%. All of this was achieved with a much lighter workload for the planning team.

6. What role does integration with SAP EWM and other solutions play in an efficient supply chain?

It is essential in achieving end-to-end visibility. Integration between transport and warehouse management enables coordinated planning, faster response to disruptions, and optimisation of tasks such as picking or labelling. It also improves dock and appointment management, which results in a better experience for warehouse operators, carriers and customers.

7. What trends do you see in the future of digital transport? And how is SAP TM preparing for them?

The standout trend is artificial intelligence. SAP is integrating its AI, Joule, into TM to enhance predictive planning, data analysis and simulations. We are also seeing progress in sustainability, with functionalities to calculate and optimise carbon footprint and plan transport based on these results. And of course, cloud-based collaboration is transforming how all transport stakeholders communicate. SAP TM is strongly aligned with these trends, and its roadmap clearly reflects that.

8. What advice would you give to a company considering implementing SAP TM for the first time?

First of all, it is crucial to be clear about where you are today and where you want to go. That means carrying out an honest assessment of the current state of your logistics operations: what systems are you using? Which processes are still manual? Where are the bottlenecks?

From there, define the project objectives clearly (cost reduction, visibility, efficiency…) and the KPIs that will allow you to measure success. And something that is often overlooked: make sure the TMS you choose — in this case SAP TM — fits your needs, is scalable, and integrates well with your existing ecosystem.

And finally, but no less important: choose the right partner. Technology is key, but project success depends heavily on who supports you throughout the journey.

9. Westernacher was one of the first companies to implement SAP TM and EWM. How does that influence the way you approach projects today?

Not only were we among the first, but we are also the partner with the highest number of SAP TM and EWM implementations globally. That has given us extensive experience and a very deep understanding of the tool — but also of the industries themselves.

Our consultants do not only know SAP; they also understand the specific challenges of sectors such as retail, pharma and manufacturing. That allows us to adapt the solution to the client’s reality, speak their language and make the transition far smoother. Ultimately, it is not just about implementing a system — it is about transforming the way logistics is managed.

From chaos to control: digitalising transport with SAP TM

Carlos Moreno, Practice Director of SAP TM at Westernacher Consulting Spain, shares his vision on today’s logistics challenges, the real impact of SAP TM in transformation projects, and the trends shaping the future of transport in the digital era.