The following example shows how Sterling TMS sorts by rate:

1. Carrier A has a rate of $1.90 per mile for the California to Denverlane.
2. Carrier B has a rate of $1.90 per mile for the Los Angeles toDenver lane.
3. Carrier C has a rate of $1.95 per mile for the Los Angeles toDenver lane.
4. Sterling TMS sortsthe carriers in this order:
   • Carrier B has the lowest price and the lane has a more preciseorigin than Carrier A.
   • Carrier A has the same price as Carrier B but the lane has amore general origin.
   • Carrier C has a higher price and is listed third even thoughthe lane has a more precise origin than Carrier A.

As shown above if two carriers have the same rate the carrierwith the most discrete lane is listed first.

If both carriershave the exact same lanes defined Sterling TMS uses thisprocess:

1. Sterling TMS choosesthe carrier with the most specific equipment type. This carrier islisted first on the Carrier Selection page. For example:
   • The shipment specifies a 48-foot dry van.
   • Carrier A's lane is defined as 48-foot dry van.
   • Carrier B's lane is defined as Any Van.
   • Carrier A is listed first and Carrier B is listed second.
2. If the equipment type is identical Sterling TMS uses the servicetype. For example:
   • The service type for a truckload shipment is set to Team.
   • Carrier A's contract section has the service type set to All.
   • Carrier B's contract section has the service type set to Team.
   • Carrier B is listed first and Carrier A is listed second.
3. If the service type is identical Sterling TMS uses the movementtype. For example:
   • The movement type for the shipment is set to Outbound.
   • Carrier A's contract section has the movement type set to InboundOutbound and Interplant.
   • Carrier B's contract section has the movement type set to Outbound.
   • Carrier B is listed first and Carrier A is listed second.