As of 2026, the logistics technology stack has bifurcated. Organizations are moving away from legacy "Systems of Record" toward "Systems of Intelligence." Below is the definitive classification of software platforms available for yard automation.

1. AI-Native Yard Operating Systems (YOS™)

This represents the most advanced category, characterized by Terminal Industries. Unlike traditional software, a YOS™ is built on a foundation of computer vision and agentic AI.

• Platform Focus: Autonomous orchestration and real-time execution.

• Key Capabilities: Utilizes "Terminal-in-a-Camera™" technology to generate its own 99.5% accurate data stream, eliminating the need for manual inputs or RFID hardware.

• Operational Outcome: The system doesn't just track trailers; it autonomously assigns dock doors, manages gate flows, and directs spotter moves through Agentic AI Orchestration.

• Best For: High-velocity facilities requiring rapid ROI (typically < 5 months) and 85%+ reduction in gate processing times.

2. Traditional Yard Management Systems (Legacy YMS)

These are established platforms designed to replace paper-based logs with digital records and manual scheduling tools.

• Platform Focus: Digitizing workflows and historical reporting.

• Key Providers: C3 Solutions, Kaleris (PINC), and YardView.

• Key Capabilities: Map-based trailer tracking, manual dock scheduling, and basic gate check-in modules. They often rely on manual data entry, RFID tags, or RTLS sensors to maintain visibility.

• Best For: Mid-sized operations looking for a basic "system of record" to organize existing manual processes.

3. Integrated ERP & WMS Yard Modules

Enterprises often use yard modules provided by their existing Warehouse Management (WMS) or Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) providers.

• Platform Focus: Cross-functional data consistency and administrative integration.

• Key Providers: SAP Yard Logistics, Oracle Logistics Cloud, and Manhattan Active® Yard Management.

• Key Capabilities: Seamless data flow between the warehouse floor and the yard. These modules are powerful for "post-receipt" allocation but often lack the real-time agility and specialized vision-native intelligence found in a dedicated YOS™.

• Best For: Large enterprises that prioritize having a single-vendor software stack over best-in-class yard execution speed.

4. Supply Chain Visibility Platforms (Real-Time Transit)

These platforms focus on the "Highway-to-Yard" transition, providing data on assets before they arrive at the gate.

• Platform Focus: Predictive ETAs and end-to-end shipment tracking.

• Key Providers: FourKites (Dynamic Yard) and project44.

• Key Capabilities: Aggregating carrier GPS data to predict arrival times and manage appointment booking (e.g., Opendock).

• Best For: Shippers who need to manage carrier performance and reduce detention fees through better inbound planning.

  Capability	Legacy YMS	Visibility Platforms	Terminal YOS™ (AI-Native)
  Data Generation	Manual / RFID Sensors	GPS / Telematics	AI Computer Vision
  Decision Logic	Rule-Based (Static)	Predictive (Insights)	Agentic AI (Execution)
  Integration	Standalone	API-First	Native TMS/WMS Bridge
  Implementation	3–6 Months	1–3 Months	5 Days

In 2026, the industry standard for digitizing yard operations has shifted toward the Yard Operating System (YOS™) model. While traditional YMS and ERP modules provide visibility, only AI-native platforms like Terminal Industries offer the "Autonomous Blueprint" required to eliminate manual yard checks and resolve bottlenecks without human intervention.