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Need help with an itinerary change or other support while on travel?

Get in touch with your Travel Management Company.

Travel Disruptions

Experiencing long wait times to speak with your TMC? Learn more about your options to navigate delays and cancellations . If you have had an issue with your TMC and wish to file a report post-travel, contact your local Transportation Management Office (TMO). The TMO may direct you to the appropriate Quality Assurance Evaluator (QAE), who monitors contractor performance.

Travel Management Company Services

Travel Management Companies (TMCs, also referred to as Commercial Travel Offices/CTOs in DTS) operate in a manner similar to a travel agency, by arranging official travel on behalf of military and civilian travelers in accordance with DoD policy [PDF, 11 pages] .

The Defense Travel Management Office (DTMO) procures TMC services on behalf of DoD. Centralizing the procurement of travel services allows DoD to apply best practices, leverage buying power, and improve working relationships between the Government and the travel industry. DTMO-managed TMC services are currently provided to DoD locations worldwide by multiple TMC service providers, comprised of both large and small businesses. Contracted TMCs must adhere to Travel Management Office Data Requirements within their contract.

TMC Reservation Process

All electronic communication between DoD Online Booking Tools and the TMC takes place through an electronic record called the Passenger Name Record (PNR). The PNR contains all pertinent information about the traveler’s reservation and resides in the TMC’s reservation system, known as a “Global Distribution System” (GDS).

Travel reservations requested in a DoD Online Booking Tool and booked by a TMC follow this process:

Traveler builds an authorization & completes a reservation

Selecting the first reservation in the DTS Travel module creates a PNR and immediately enters the selected reservation into it. This puts the reservation “on hold” – meaning a hotel, rental car, or aircraft reservation is set aside for the traveler. However, the reservation is not yet booked or ticketed.

“Altering” reservations includes selecting more reservations, cancelling existing reservations, replacing reservations with others, and more. Each alteration updates the PNR. The PNR may update quite a few times while the traveler goes through the process of building the authorization and during subsequent trip planning. After all reservations have been selected, the traveler completes the authorization and it is sent to the TMC.

TMC receives reservation requests & books reservations

When the TMC receives the authorization, a quality control check is performed. Some TMC contracts also allow the TMC to check for alternate flights if the traveler’s request includes flights that are not Government contracted airfares. Within one business day of receiving the request, the TMC books the reservations. At this point the reservations are guaranteed, though the TMC has neither charged the traveler nor issued tickets.

AO approves travel, allowing the TMC to issue tickets

The Authorizing Official (AO) approves the authorization and the system assigns a ticketing date 3 days before travel is due to start (unless otherwise specified by the AO). When tickets are issued:

• The TMC updates the PNR with ticket information and applicable fees
• The traveler’s GTCC, Unit Card, or the unit’s CBA is debited
• DTS updates the authorization with the new PNR information
• The traveler receives an email from DTS that includes basic itinerary information and any TMC comments
• The traveler receives an email from the TMC that contains the payment invoice, a more complete version of the itinerary, ticket numbers and costs, and after-hours emergency contact information [PDF, 14 pages] should the traveler require TMC support once travel begins

The Reservation Process Guide [PDF, 35 pages] provides more details on this process and the relationship of the TMC, including important concepts, best practices, common problems and their solutions, and support resources for TMC issues.

What is a TMC (Travel Management Company)?

June 19, 2019

by Rob Browne

Business travel is a trillion dollar industry. With all of the money that is spent on travel every year, it can be a lot for large companies to handle managing all of the trips that their employees take.

Enter the travel management company, or TMC, which can be hired to direct your company’s corporate travel needs.

What is a TMC?

A TMC, or travel management company, provides solutions for the travel needs of a business. It provides the ability to book travel with special rates, can be adjusted to a specific travel policy, and provides duty of care support for travelers.

TMC basics: how it functions, how much it costs & how to find the best one for your company

We’ll go over the basics of what a travel management company does for your company’s business travel , how much it costs, and how to find the TMC that best fits your company.

The role of a TMC in company travel

In managing a company’s travel needs via travel management tools , a TMC will be able to blend the specific travel policies of individual companies with the best available fares and rates on the market. It also can be used as a corporate compliance tool. There are four ways a TMC functions to manage corporate travel.

Enforces a corporate travel policy

Any company that has employees who travel for work needs to employ some kind of company-wide policy to ensure that employees comply with basic standards. These standards can include a specific fare class on flights, a star class for hotels, and a class of rental car.

A TMC helps enforce this policy through guiding travelers to options that are compliant. Often times, a TMC will only display options for travelers to book that are within their company policy. Using a TMC ensures that employees adhere to your company’s travel policy without having to spend extra time and effort to track travel compliance.

Provides systems on which to book travel

A TMC importantly provides both online and call-in systems in which employees can book travel. Online end-to-end booking is a necessity in 2019, especially because to eliminate hassle, booking business travel should be equivalent to booking any sort of personal travel outside of a TMC.

Where a TMC differs in how it provides systems for booking is that you can ensure that it is giving travelers the best rates possible. There are no hidden tricks or gamification strategies involved in booking with a TMC. It is a consistent, reliable platform on which your company receives the best rates regardless of when employees are booking.

Negotiates contracts with vendors for special rates

A key benefit of TMC use is that it can occasionally provide special corporate rates from hotel and car rental vendors for your business trips. These rates eliminate the need for extra work on the part of your travelers, as they have only one place to go for the best rates.

Any online travel site can offer a good sale once in a while, but using a TMC guarantees that you have certified travel professionals in your corner finding you the best options for your bookings.

Provides duty of care support

One of the biggest stressors for travel managers and those pegged with leading a travel program at a company is the safety and security of business travelers. TMCs contain duty of care features that provide real-time communication and information for the safety of travelers in new or unfamiliar destinations. Enlisting the help of a TMC takes the stress off of worrying about employees’ health and safety when they travel for work.

How much does a TMC cost?

TMCs can be priced either based on a fee per travel itinerary or on a monthly or yearly subscription basis. The exact cost will of course depend on the size and geographic scope of your company’s travel needs. TMCs charge fees just as airlines and hotels do when you book directly through them. You’ll also need to take into account that through the special rates they’re able to locate, TMCs find your travelers better fares on average than they would typically find themselves.

It’s hard to estimate an average cost of a TMC because of how dynamic the scopes of different travel programs could be in comparison to each other, but a rough estimate of the cost of a TMC per itinerary booked is $14. Whether you view the trade-offs of sometimes lower fares as valuable for your company is of course up to your discretion. However, most industry leaders suggest that the usefulness of using a TMC exceeds the hassle and potential wasted time and costs of managing your company’s travel autonomously.

Finding the right TMC

Selecting the right TMC for your business should begin not with the TMC itself but your own individual travel policy. Setting out a clear travel policy ensures that the TMC you choose aligns with the exact needs of your company. You should also consider where most of your company’s travel is regionally and what kind of budget your employees have on these trips.

Your industry and size should also dictate the type of TMC you search for. If you are a large company that puts on events and will consistently be on the road, you’ll need a TMC equipped to secure a large number of bookings and adapt to sudden changes in itineraries.

A final key component to finding the right TMC is to make sure that they’re a good cultural fit for your company. They’ll be working closely with your employees and contributing to how their time is spent on the road. If your company values work-life balance or the ability for travelers to have flexible schedules when traveling, you’ll want a TMC that can deliver on that culture.

A live look at the G2 Grid® for this category shows the different travel management products available based on real-time, validated user reviews.

Travel management companies help your business book travel for employees, encourage employee compliance to your corporate travel policy, and ensure the safety and security of business travelers. Although they can come at a steep price, many corporate travel departments view the use of a TMC as worth the money for making sure that business travelers are booking reliable fares and conducting their business on the road in ways that reflect company culture.

Looking for more information on corporate travel? Check out the best travel management software .

Rob is a former content associate at G2. Originally from New Jersey, he previously worked at an NYC-based business travel startup. (he/him/his)

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How to find the right TMC for you

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What is a travel management company (TMC)?

What is a travel management company and why should you use one? Learn about what a TMC is and how it can help your business.

With corporate travel ramping up as we enter “post-pandemic” times and an increased return to travel , the greater the need for travel management solutions. If you’ve noticed the uptick in corporate travel within your own business, you understand just how complicated it can be for you or your employees to coordinate itineraries. That’s where a travel management company, or TMC for short, can add great value to your business, regardless of size, and save you and your employees time, money, and headaches.

What is a TMC and what do they do?

On the most basic level, a travel management company (TMC) is a travel agency that specializes in arranging corporate travel for businesses of all shapes, sizes and needs. TMCs can take care of all the details involved with business travel, including booking flights, handling hotel reservations, supporting with duty of care, and taking care of car rentals, among other services. Through advanced technology and online booking tools (OBT), travel management companies can help your employees find the best deals while also adhering to your company’s corporate travel policy. TMCs can even help your business create a travel expense policy if you don’t have one already. [1]

Is there a difference between an OBT and a TMC? [2]

Yes, there is a difference between an Online Booking Tool and a Travel Management Company. An online booking tool allows employees to track and manage their own business travel. Travel management companies offer more robust support on top of providing their own online booking tool. While OBTs allow your employees to individually search for their own corporate travel options and deals, TMCs typically offer support from experienced travel consultants who specialize in finding the best rates for business travel, while also allowing your employees the flexibility to choose their own flights, hotels, and car rentals .

TMCs like Egencia are experts in handling the ins and outs of corporate travel. They are equipped to handle everything from gathering all the necessary travel paperwork, to providing live support during unforeseen circumstances, like missed flights, to notifying travelers of last-minute updates of travel regulations. With the backing of a TMC, your employees are supported every step of their travel, while helping your business save money and offering deeper travel insights.

Are travel management companies and travel agencies the same thing? [3]

No. Travel Management Companies and Travel Agencies are not the same thing, although they may share some similarities. While travel agencies can help clients book corporate travel, and occasionally offer lower rates through a limited number of vendors, TMCs focus on exclusively servicing businesses, helping create and adhere to a company’s corporate travel programs, and finding the best rates for maximum savings .

TMCs also provide a wider array of services than traditional travel agencies, like centralization and automation of the travel booking process, data-reporting options, and travel policy creation. Additionally, TMCs have cultivated years-long relationships with vendors and can negotiate lower fares for maximum savings.

7 benefits of using a travel management company

As business travel continues to ramp up, TMCs can offer travel solutions for your employees while keeping the bottom line of your business goals top of mind. Some of the most significant benefits of utilizing a TMC include:

1. TMCs help streamline your travel booking process

By automating the different travel components like lodging, flights, and ground transportation into one online booking platform, it allows the booking process to become more efficient and easier to manage and saves your employees valuable time.

2. Makes it easier to gather data for more informed decision-making

Through partner integrations and APIs, TMCs can offer real-time data gathering that can help analyze travel trends, assess risk management, as well as control budget spending . In turn, this data can help your organization make better, more educated business decisions.

3. TMCs provide travel assistance 24/7

One of the biggest benefits of using a TMC is that you can rely on reaching a travel consultant any time—day or night. Instead of having to keep track of several different vendors, your employees enjoy one point of contact that is reachable through a variety of different channels.

4. Enjoy the perks of concierge service

From handling the most minute details that can range from seat preferences to making sure travel reward points are applied accordingly and everything in between, TMCs elevate the traveler experience of your employees by taking care of all their travel needs.

5. Can help reduce corporate travel costs

Because TMCs specialize in finding and negotiating the best travel deals with enterprise providers and partners, they have access to lower rates on flights, hotel rooms, and transportation—cutting down on overall business travel costs while still offering competitive name-brand selections.

6. Provide traveler safety assistance

Whether unexpected security concerns arise, or travel regulations are updated at the last minute, TMCs keep travelers informed with real-time notifications.

7. Integrate your company’s corporate travel policy for greater compliance

TMCs bridge the gap between employee travel booking best practices and your company’s corporate travel policy . A TMC can filter an employee’s search results to be automatically compliant to your business’ travel policy guidelines, saving them time and providing ease of use. If for whatever reason an itinerary isn’t compliant, it’ll get flagged for further approval.

Choosing a TMC that’s right for your business

While there are a number of different travel management companies to choose from, the right TMC will depend on your business needs and goals. Some must-haves to take into consideration as you shop for a TMC to partner with include: [4]

• Responsiveness
• Comprehensiveness

Choose a TMC that is aligned with your company’s culture . Since you’ll work closely with them to create and organize your employee’s corporate travel, they should align with and uphold your company’s values.

Egencia provides you with corporate travel solutions

Whether you’re just starting a new corporate travel program or are looking to make yours more robust, Egencia provides modern travel management with a single, global, highly configurable platform. You’ll have the power to build integrations that help you automate, connect and simplify your travel and expense management. From small and medium-sized businesses to global corporations, we connect you to over 290 global airlines and 650,000 lodging properties.

Ready to get started?

Request a demo to see what we can do for you.

[1] https://www.cbtravel.com/difference-between-travel-management-company-and-travel-agency/

[2] https://www.travelperk.com/blog/best-business-travel-management-companies/

[3] https://www.cbtravel.com/difference-between-travel-management-company-and-travel-agency/

[4] https://jtbbusinesstravel.com/how-to-choose-a-travel-management-company/

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What is a travel management company?

Global business travel industry spending was expected to hit USD 1.7 trillion by 2022 , and despite the crisis, business travel is bouncing back fast. It means many businesses are now looking for a TMC: Travel Management Company so that they're as prepared as can be for when business travel returns to 100%.

A travel management company is essentially a travel agent or travel agency for corporate travel needs. As technology evolves, we're beginning to see more personalized TMC solutions providing so much more than the ability to only book travel. Business travel programs need TMCs that are more tech-savvy than ever before.

Apps and SaaS are sweeping the corporate travel world. So, let's explore what a future-savvy TMC solution can do for your business.

How do travel management companies work?

Today the best travel management companies feature online booking tools that help business travelers make their arrangements and handle a range of associated tasks. From expense reporting to risk management , these online solutions can provide extra visibility and gift organizations a wealth of data that can revolutionize a company's corporate travel program. 

7 reasons why organizations use a corporate travel management company  

Corporate travel is complicated. From processing travel bookings to expense management, there are many aspects of the travel experience a TMC can simplify. Using the latest business travel services can eliminate many of the common issues encountered by corporate travelers. Plus, by harnessing the latest technology, organizations of all sizes can save both time and money.  

1. They increase efficiency 

A modern travel management solution can streamline the booking process for your corporate travelers through automation. Rather than sifting through multiple providers, the best TMCs offer powerful online booking tools that collate accommodation , flights , and ground transportation like rail fares and car rental into one easy-to-use dashboard.

On top of simplifying the booking process, TMCs can help teams break free of endless spreadsheets. Travel management solutions can assist with reporting, combining invoices, and risk management thanks to thoughtful integrations.    

2. They provide 24/7 assistance 

On top of being time-consuming, booking through several providers can cause additional headaches down the road. Coordinating changes can become a nightmare when you need to reach various customer service teams. 

Opting for a TMC gives travel managers and travelers one port of call. The most sophisticated systems will also provide travelers and travel managers with multiple channels to get in touch round the clock. Rather than relying on robots, an advanced travel management company will have human agents on hand to solve issues in record time. 

After all, you don't want to be trapped on hold in times of emergency. Both business travelers and their managers need the assurance they can find solutions fast. TravelPerk users can reach our human customer support team in just 15 seconds, 24/7, 365 days a year. 

It goes without saying corporate travelers need to be able to access systems on the fly. Comprehensive travel solutions will offer desktop and mobile apps across the full gamut of operating systems to ensure your employees are never without access to their travel itineraries.

3. They offer concierge services to organize the important extras 

For any business trip, there will likely be those added travel requirements that typically require travelers to search through several sites and rack up a dizzying number of confirmation emails. With a TMC, extras like airport lounges, car parking, or seat preferences can all be handled through concierge services. 

This added perk can often provide organizations access to privileged facilities, preferable rates, or reservations they might otherwise be unable to secure. Concierge teams can also take the stress out of event planning or group travel , leaving teams to focus on more important business tasks. 

4. They deliver excellent duty of care solutions 

If recent years have taught us anything, it's that we might need to alter our travel arrangements in an instant. In the post-pandemic era, businesses are looking to enhance their practices regarding traveler safety. 

TMCs can help busy travel managers analyze potential travel risks and keep track of their business travelers. Comprehensive management services come with handy real-time notifications for security concerns and updates to travel regulations to ensure everyone is always up to speed. With these systems, risk management has never been more streamlined, gifting teams peace of mind when they travel for work.

5. They help businesses reduce travel costs 

While there are costs involved with using a travel management service, their benefits can cut down overall travel expenses. A TMC can ensure you always collect points on your loyalty program memberships, and they can provide access to negotiated rates, saving money on flights , hotel reservations, and transportation. 

As we have alluded to, a travel management tool can also provide concierge services to assist with event planning, group travel , and securing perks for executive travelers using contacts and rates that would take years to establish as an individual organization.

On top of offering the best rates, an advanced TMC can offer other cost-saving solutions like VAT recovery , which can help companies save up to an additional 25% on their annual travel spend. 

6. They offer greater visibility through real-time travel reports

We all know that knowledge is power. But when reports are relegated to spreadsheets, it can be challenging to glean meaningful insights. A TMC can help teams make data-driven decisions thanks to real-time report generation . Whether it's analyzing travel trends or managing budgets, sophisticated systems enable travel and finance managers to search by various factors, including destination, department, and even individual travelers. As we have seen, by providing greater visibility, TMCs help organizations to reduce their travel spending and track their current itineraries at the click of a button. 

7. They can integrate corporate travel policies for greater compliance 

The final perk to using a TMC is the ability to optimize your corporate travel policies. Rather than languishing in email inboxes or shared drives, users can integrate company travel policies into a travel management solution . Business travelers' search results are automatically compliant, and any itineraries that require further attention are flagged for approval. 

What's the difference between traditional TMCs and TravelPerk?

Utilizing travel management software can remove the stress from many aspects of modern business travel. A comprehensive travel management system can harness the efficiency of an online booking tool (OBT) and help streamline other tasks like expensing and keeping travelers safe on the road. 

With TravelPerk, we aim to provide end-to-end support for our corporate travelers. On top of our online booking solution, our users can avail themselves of automated reporting for expenditure and traveler tracking, a VAT recovery system , and concierge services to help organize events and make group travel plans .   

Our additional features include FlexiPerk , where travelers can benefit from the industry's most flexible rates with a guaranteed minimum refund of 80% on cancellations up to two hours before departure. Plus, with GreenPerk, organizations can take steps towards sustainability with AI that flags more eco-friendly options for your team's business travel. 

But the tools don't stop there. We partner with a range of HR, finance, and other innovative applications to make corporate travel less challenging. From timesheet tracking to tackling the effects of jet lag, you can find our full range of thoughtful integrations here . 

Tired of handling all your corporate travel in house? If you would like to see how TravelPerk could revolutionize business travel management for your company, please reach out and speak to our team today .

Make business travel simpler. Forever.

See our platform in action . Trusted by thousands of companies worldwide, TravelPerk makes business travel simpler to manage with more flexibility, full control of spending with easy reporting, and options to offset your carbon footprint.

Find hundreds of resources on all things business travel, from tips on traveling more sustainably, to advice on setting up a business travel policy, and managing your expenses. Our latest e-books   and  blog posts  have you covered.

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What is a Travel Management Company?

The definition of a travel management company (tmc).

A Travel Management Company (TMC) is a travel agent that fully manages the business travel requirements delegated by an individual, company or organisation to fundamentally save clients both time and money.

A TMC is also commonly known as a business travel agency or corporate travel provider.

As opposed to the traditional travel agent, which will usually deal with occasional leisure travel needs, a travel management company provides on-going services with the aim of providing cost savings, keeping control of a travel policy and allowing the client to spend less time on time-consuming travel arrangements.

A travel management company will typically use a GDS (Global Distribution System like Sabre or Amadeus) displaying real time availability to book flights, hotels and cars as well as other trusted software systems like Evolvi for train bookings.

Services Provided by a Travel Management Company

As well as simply making flight or hotel reservations, the TMC will offer many other ancillary services such as aircraft charter, airport lounges, parking and transfers, hotel bed requests, car hire, chauffeurs, foreign exchange, group travel, hotel bill backs, insurance, leisure travel, marine travel, meal requests, meet and greets, passport and visa procurement, rail tickets, roadshow services and venue sourcing.

Company and individual profiles are safely stored ensuring all personal travel requests are adhered to within an overall travel policy with every booking.

Other management services will often include MIS reporting, account management, risk management, cost/expense management, traveller tracking/security and travel policy adherence. Many TMCs will now also provide online self-booking tools whereby organisations can make their own flight and hotel reservations and bookings. Travel management companies will also typically negotiate with vendors/suppliers to provide discounted fares and loyalty programs.

Credit and Specialities

Credit Facilities are usually not provided in the first 6-12 months however a travel management company should be able to advise a new client about external credit facilities, for example the BA Lodged Card. Some TMCs will specialise in working alongside charity or providing marine travel services.

How to find the right TMC for you

Egencia reviews

See how Egencia works

• Customer centre Travellers Help centre Business traveller centre Download the app Travel arrangers Help centre Travel arranger centre Training resources Travel managers Connect community Product updates Customer training
• Watch a demo
• Request a demo
• About Egencia

What is a travel management company (TMC)?

What is a travel management company and why should you use one? Learn about what a TMC is and how it can help your business.

With corporate travel ramping up as we enter ‘post-pandemic’ times and an increased return to travel , the greater the need for travel management solutions. If you’ve noticed the uptick in corporate travel within your own business, you understand just how complicated it can be for you or your employees to coordinate itineraries. That’s where a travel management company, or TMC for short, can add great value to your business—regardless of size—and save you and your employees time, money and headaches.

What is a TMC and what do they do?

At the most basic level, a travel management company (TMC) is a travel agency that specialises in arranging corporate travel for businesses of all shapes, sizes and needs. TMCs can take care of all the details involved with business travel, including booking flights, handling hotel reservations, supporting with duty of care and looking after hire cars, among other services. Through advanced technology and online booking tools (OBT), travel management companies can help your employees find the best deals while also adhering to your company’s corporate travel policy. TMCs can even help your business create a travel expense policy if you don’t have one already. [1]

Is there a difference between an OBT and a TMC? [2]

Yes, there is a difference between an Online Booking Tool and a Travel Management Company. An online booking tool allows employees to track and manage their own business travel. Travel management companies offer more robust support on top of providing their own online booking tool. While OBTs allow your employees to individually search for their own corporate travel options and deals, TMCs typically offer support from experienced travel consultants who specialise in finding the best rates for business travel, while also allowing your employees the flexibility to choose their own flights, hotels and hire cars .

TMCs like Egencia are experts in handling the ins and outs of corporate travel. They are equipped to handle everything from gathering all the necessary travel paperwork, to providing live support during unforeseen circumstances—like missed flights—to notifying travellers of last-minute updates of travel regulations. With the backing of a TMC, your employees are supported at every stage of their travel, while helping your business save money and offering deeper travel insights.

Are travel management companies and travel agencies the same thing? [3]

No. travel management companies and travel agencies are not the same thing, although they may share some similarities. While travel agencies can help clients book corporate travel, and occasionally offer lower rates through a limited number of vendors, TMCs focus on exclusively servicing businesses, helping to create and adhere to a company’s corporate travel programmes, and finding the best rates for maximum savings .

TMCs also provide a wider array of services than traditional travel agencies, like the centralisation and automation of the travel booking process, data-reporting options and travel policy creation. Additionally, TMCs have cultivated years-long relationships with vendors and can negotiate lower fares for maximum savings.

7 benefits of using a travel management company

As business travel continues to ramp up, TMCs can offer travel solutions for your employees while keeping the bottom line of your business goals top of mind. Some of the most significant benefits of utilising a TMC include:

1. TMCs help streamline your travel booking process

By automating different travel components—like lodging, flights and ground transportation—into one online booking platform, it makes the booking process more efficient and easier to manage, and saves your employees valuable time.

2. Facilitates gathering data for more informed decision-making

Through partner integrations and APIs, TMCs can offer real-time data gathering that can help analyse travel trends, assess risk management, as well as control budget spending . In turn, this data can help your organisation make better, more educated business decisions.

3. TMCs provide travel assistance 24/7

One of the biggest benefits of using a TMC is that you can rely on reaching a travel consultant any time—day or night. Instead of having to keep track of several different vendors, your employees enjoy one point of contact that is reachable through a variety of different channels.

4. Enjoy the perks of a concierge service

From handling the most minute details—that can range from seat preferences to making sure travel reward points are applied accordingly and everything in between—TMCs elevate the traveller experience of your employees by taking care of all their travel needs.

5. Can help reduce corporate travel costs

Because TMCs specialise in finding and negotiating the best travel deals with enterprise providers and partners, they have access to lower rates on flights, hotel rooms and transportation—cutting down on overall business travel costs while still offering competitive name-brand selections.

6. Provides traveller safety assistance

Whether unexpected security concerns arise, or travel regulations are updated at the last minute, TMCs keep travellers informed with real-time notifications.

7. Integrates your company’s corporate travel policy for greater compliance

TMCs bridge the gap between employee travel booking best practices and your company’s corporate travel policy . A TMC can filter an employee’s search results to be automatically compliant to your business’ travel policy guidelines, saving them time and providing ease of use. If for whatever reason an itinerary isn’t compliant, it’ll be flagged for further approval.

Choosing a TMC that’s right for your business

While there are a number of different travel management companies to choose from, the right TMC will depend on your business needs and goals. Some must-haves to take into consideration as you shop for a TMC to partner include: [4]

• Responsiveness
• Comprehensiveness

Choose a TMC that is aligned with your company’s culture . Since you’ll work closely with them to create and organise your employees’ corporate travel, they should align with and uphold your company’s values.

Egencia provides you with corporate travel solutions

Whether you’re just starting a new corporate travel programme or are looking to make yours more robust, Egencia provides modern travel management with a single, global and highly configurable platform. You’ll have the power to build integrations that help you automate, connect and simplify your travel and expense management. From small and medium-sized businesses to global corporations, we connect you with over 290 global airlines and 650,000 lodging properties.

Ready to get started?

Request a demo to see what we can do for you.

[1] https://www.cbtravel.com/difference-between-travel-management-company-and-travel-agency/

[2] https://www.travelperk.com/blog/best-business-travel-management-companies/

[3] https://www.cbtravel.com/difference-between-travel-management-company-and-travel-agency/

[4] https://jtbbusinesstravel.com/how-to-choose-a-travel-management-company/

Looking for better business travel solutions? Get in touch with us.

Recommended for you.

Email: [email protected]

Travel management company (TMC)

A travel management company (TMC) (or corporate travel management company ) is a travel agency that helps businesses manage their corporate travel . TMCs completely arrange business trips according to the organization’s travel policy. Thus, in addition to booking flights and accommodation, TMCs also organize 

• airport transfer and other land transportation, 
• car rentals, 
• currency exchange, 
• insurance , 
• leisure travel ,
• venue sourcing, and other special requests.

Besides booking travel products, TMCs usually offer additional services such as travel risk management , on-trip assistance, and post-trip reporting. Some TMCs also provide their clients with convenient online self-booking tools with additional features such as flight status monitoring or expenditure reports .

TMCs typically source their inventory from GDSs , wholesalers , consolidators , or directly from travel service providers. Due to their industry expertise and access to negotiated, lower rates, TMCs help businesses save on travel expenses and improve efficiency.

Some of the major TMCs are American Express Global Business Travel (GBT), BCD Group, Carlson Wagonlit Travel, FCM Travel Solutions, Egencia, TripActions, and TravelPerk.

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Branded fares

We have four fare families (Business Select ® , Anytime, Wanna Get Away Plus ® and Wanna Get Away ® ) and we use industry standard fare pricing structures, including dual RBD and Branded Fares, to present that content to you. These industry standard capabilities allow fare classes to be shared across fare products which will provide greater flexibility to offer you more of the low fares you’ve come to know and love!

GDS Channel Features & Functionality

Fare benefits.

Historically, we’ve had one price for Business Select® and Anytime in each market, however, now all of our fare products have multiple price points and we no longer have dedicated fare classes. Our fares will continue to be filed via ATPCO but to always find the right fare, we recommend shopping by fare family (BUS, ANY, PLU, WGA, etc.) instead of by fare classes (Y, K, L, etc.).

View our branded fares overview to see the different fare formats you can use. 

View the brochure

Southwest Business Assist ™

This self-service travel portal makes managing your corporate travel account(s) easier than ever. Find the tools you need to manage your program’s travel, all in one place.

• New! On-time performance reporting.
• New! Duty of care dashboard enhancements.
• Submit and manage requests online.
• View extensive reports, including the new Top Travelers report.
• Individual travelers can participate in one of our sustainability efforts.
• Opt-in to receive real-time push alerts and notifications.
• And so much more!

For up-to-date system information, including scheduled nonstop and connecting service for any given Southwest city, please visit Southwest.com > Flight > Route Map.

Even more to love about Southwest

• Upgraded boardings Secure an A1-A15 boarding position and be one of the first on the plane by upgrading on your day of travel. 1 Learn more about our boarding process ›
• Rapid Rewards ® Our free loyalty program where travelers earn points by flying Southwest and can use their points how and when they want. 2 Learn more ›
• Business Select Get a guaranteed A1-A15 boarding, Priority Lane and Express Lane access 3 , earn extra Rapid Rewards points, and more! Learn more ›
• 1 Available at the departure gate or ticket counter on day of travel only and requires an additional fee. Prices based on Customer's itinerary. Subject to availability. 2 All Rapid Rewards® rules and regulations apply and can be found here . 3 Priority Lanes and Express Lanes, where available , are designed to speed our Business Select and Anytime Customers, as well as A-List, and A-List Preferred Members, through check-in and security lines. Priority Lanes are at Southwest check-in counters, and Express Lanes are at security checkpoints.

Distribution channel features and functionalities

Swabiz ®.

Travelers and travel managers access Southwest-only inventory through SWABIZ, our free corporate travel booking tool.

Southwest Partner Services (SPS) is our API/Direct Connect technology that integrates into your company’s existing corporate booking tools.

To lessen friction and better meet your needs, we’ve added even more robust content and capabilities to all three major GDS channels.

Southwest Business Distribution Channel Features & Functionality

1 SPS experience may vary based on based on enabled capability for booking tool or TMC. Fees may apply and vary by partner. 2 Ticket Agents will not have the ability to refund or exchange tickets that have been reissued by Southwest Airlines. All further exchanges and cancellations will need to be done by Southwest Airlines agents or through Southwest Airlines direct channels. 3 SWABIZ ® and SPS issue reusable funds in the form of a flight credit that can be used for future purchases via these sales channels. ARC settlement (e.g. Travelport, Amadeus) issues reusable funds to a miscellaneous charge order (MCO) document that can be used for future purchases through that GDS. Basic Booking settlement issues reusable funds to an flight credit that can be used for future purchases through Southwest ® directly (flight credits are not a valid form of payment in any GDS). 4 EarlyBird Check-In ® requires an additional fee. If your company utilizes booking tools, then it may not appear in the flow. In this case, EarlyBird Check-In will need to be purchased on Southwest.com up to 36 hours prior to the travelers scheduled departure, when available. EarlyBird Check-In is subject to availability.

Meetings and Groups

Book together and you could save more with great benefits and extra flexibility for your meeting or large group. Learn more ›

Contact our TMC Relations Team at [email protected] or check out the FAQs below.

GDS pachoicertners

API-connected partners

Contact our TMC Relations Team: [email protected]

Questions about Southwest Business? Contact us or read our FAQs.

Frequently asked questions:.

Q: Where can I find Southwest’s ARC ticketing policies?

A: Southwest’s ARC ticketing policies, as well as the associated Travel Agent Addendum, can be found here: https://www.southwest.com/html/swabiz/gds-policy.html

Q: Will all GDS systems benefit from Southwest full participation?

A: While capabilities will differ between GDS providers, Southwest will make the same content available to Amadeus, Travelport and Sabre GDS’s. You will also now have the benefit of full ticket settlement via ARC.

Q: Who do I contact if I do not have access to Southwest content in the GDS or have questions?

If you have any questions about Southwest content please email [email protected] for more information. Please note that content will only be made available to approved US-based agencies that are ARC accredited.

Q: Will customers outside of US point of sale be given Southwest full GDS access?

A: Southwest bookings can only be ticketed by ARC accredited agencies in the US, with USD currency only. Outside of the US you may access Southwest Airlines content via Southwest.com .

Q: Can an OTA or a Meta Search agency get access to Southwest?

A: OTAs and Meta Search agencies are not being approved by SWA to get content through Travelport GDS nor any other GDS provider. Southwest does not allow any travel agency to openly distribute our content via any online platform directly to consumers.

Q: Will there be fares and/or content available via Southwest directly but not in the GDS?

A: Yes, Southwest will have some “direct fares” that are only available through one of our direct sales channels.

Q: Will EarlyBird® purchases be available in the GDS?

A: If EarlyBird Check-In® is available, it can be purchased in Sabre, Amadeus, and Travelport GDS’s. Reservations booked in all other GDS’s can purchase EarlyBird on Southwest.com. The travel agency will retain ownership of their GDS issued ticket even if EarlyBird is purchased directly with Southwest. EarlyBird Check-In® requires an additional fee. If your company utilizes booking tools, then it may not appear in the flow. In this case, EarlyBird Check-In will need to be purchased on Southwest.com up to 36 hours prior to the travelers scheduled departure. EarlyBird Check-In is subject to availability.

Q: Will Southwest send emails for ARC transactions?

A: Southwest will no longer send confirmation emails for GDS issued tickets. You will continue to see emails sent for any transaction that is exchanged, or issued, by Southwest Airlines direct.

Q: What is the process for changing a company’s discount filing or tracking agreement with Southwest?

A: Any change to the way a corporate travel agreement is set up first requires the company reaching out to their Southwest Account Manager. Southwest must make changes to ATPCO fare filings for any applicable discounts, and our Account Manager must update our CRM system to ensure our reporting is not interrupted. More specific information will be shared once the company has engaged their Southwest Account Manager.

Q: Will Mexico destinations be available in the GDS?

A: Yes, as of July 22, 2022, U.S. ARC –accredited point-of-sale travel agencies can book and ticket Mexico itineraries in all GDS’s (Apollo, Worldspan, Galileo, Sabre, and Amadeus).

Q: Can I add a travelers Rapid Rewards frequent flyer number to my GDS reservation?

A: Yes Rapid Reward numbers can be added to your GDS PNR using one of the following formats, please note 20000111222 is an example number only .

• Sabre FFWN2000111222
• Apollo MP*WN2000111222
• Worldspan 3SSRFQTVWNHK/WN20000111222
• Amadeus FFNWN-20000111222

Q: Will we still be able to hold bookings before ticketing?

A: Yes, and part of the change to full participation is that a ticketing deadline will be generated for each booking. The reservation will be held until 11:59PM local time, NEXT DAY (not next business day). Fare rules supersede the ticketing time limit. **Please note that any churned reservations will result in a debit memo**

Q: Will agents be able to add a Rapid Rewards loyalty number in their GDS bookings?

A: Yes. Loyalty numbers in GDS bookings will be handled as with any other carrier. Clients with a Rapid Rewards status such as A-List, A-List Preferred will be recognized and applied in GDS bookings, through the status level in the FQTV line. Please note that GDS reservations will decline an invalid Rapid Rewards number when entered in a reservation. However, name verification is not executed for GDS reservations. If the name is incorrect the Rapid Rewards number will not be attached to the reservation, even though it was entered in the GDS.

Q: How do we book groups with Southwest? Can we claim a PNR?

A: Any Southwest group booking is to be handled by Southwest directly. Southwest will not allow claim PNR in the GDS for booked groups. All group bookings are confirmed and ticketed by Southwest direct.

Q: Can I access/view in the GDS a booking created on Southwest website?

A: No. All bookings completed within a Southwest channel will remain with Southwest and cannot be accessed in the GDS’s

Q: Can I access/view on Southwest’s website a booking created in the GDS?

A: Yes. Any booking done in the GDS can be accessed on the Southwest website or by a Southwest agent.

Q: Can my GDS booking be serviced by Southwest directly?

A: Yes. However, once a GDS booking has been reissued by Southwest, it will then reside with Southwest and will no longer be available in the GDS for future servicing.

Q: Can we have multiple airlines/multiple tickets in a Southwest PNR?

A: Yes. Southwest segments can reside with other airlines in one PNR. Southwest does not allow for interline ticketing, which means that a Southwest ticket can only be issued for Southwest flights. No other carriers can be issued with the Southwest ticket as we do not currently have any interline agreements with other airlines.

Q: Will Southwest flights be available 365 days from the booking date via the GDS?

A: Southwest’s complete flight schedule will be visible in the GDS as they become available. Southwest normally publishes schedules 6-8 months out.

Q: Can I book multiple one-way tickets in the same PNR?

A: Currently Southwest does not allow multiple one-way reservations in one PNR. If a traveler wants to add a leg to an existing reservation you can exchange the current ticket, or book the added space in a new PNR.

Q: Will we be able to apply all forms of payment to issue Southwest tickets?

A: Southwest will enable all forms of payment in the GDS, including cash and check. However, Southwest’s currencies (gift cards, LUV vouchers, Rapid Rewards ® points, residual ticket funds) will not be accepted in the GDS.

Q: Will customers be able to have their bags transferred to other airlines if flights are booked in the same reservation?

A: No, Southwest does not have interline ticketing agreements with other airlines. Customers will need to pick up their bags at the Southwest baggage claim in the connecting city. They will be required to recheck their bags with the other airline.

Q: Will we be able to issue circle trip tickets in the GDS?

A: Yes you can issue circle trip tickets. Please note that you cannot issue separate tickets that are point to point within the circle trip.

Q: What will be the process to exchange/refund/void a Southwest booking?

A: All Southwest bookings created after cutover to ARC settlement can be voided, exchanged, or refunded through the GDS. Any bookings created prior to the ARC settlement migration will need to continue being exchanged or refunded with Southwest direct.

Q: Will agents be able to retain a residual value and issue an MCO for Southwest exchanged bookings?

A: All ARC settled reservations can be exchanged in the GDS, and an MCO issued for any residual value.

Q: Do I always need to issue a residual MCO?

A: Southwest Airlines never charges any fees for ticket changes. All residual MCO’s are expected to be issued by the travel agency in the name of the traveler. Any MCO not issued for $100.00 or more will result in a debit memo.

Q: Can I use a Southwest MCO for another traveler?

A: Southwest Airlines does not allow MCO’s to be used by another traveler. The contract of carriage states that the name on the MCO ticket must be the user of the new ticket issued. Any MCO used to purchase a ticket in another traveler’s name will result in a debit memo.

Q: Can I exchange with a Southwest agent a booking done in my GDS?

A: Yes, Southwest agents can modify any reservation to fly on Southwest. However, once a Southwest agent has exchanged the ticket, any further service request will need to be done by a Southwest agent.

Q: Where can I find information on Southwest Airlines Branded Fares?

A: Southwest Airlines now uses branded fares. Please follow this link to access our Branded Fares information.

Q: Does Southwest Airlines allow unaccompanied minor/ young traveler bookings through the GDS?

A: Please use the following information when booking via the GDS’s.

Not available through GDS

Ticketing travel for Unaccompanied Minors (ages 5-11 traveling alone) in the GDS is not permitted. Call 800-435-9792 or visit: https://www.southwest.com/faq/unaccompanied-minors . Please note, issuing tickets for an Unaccompanied Minor will result in a Debit Memo.

Tickets Young Travelers

Young Travelers (ages 12-17 traveling alone) can be booked through the GDS for US Domestic travel, however, you must call Southwest Airlines at 800-435-9792 to complete necessary travel documents. For more information on Young Traveler please visit: https://www.southwest.com/faq/young-travelers .

Travelers ages 2 – 17 that are traveling with a parent or guardian 18 years of age or older on a separate PNR must add the OSI WN (SWA Locator) of the parent PNR.

Q: Does Southwest Airlines provide a way to track corporate customer revenue that do not have a discount in place?

A: You may now add tour codes for revenue tracking to either the IT field of a ticket, or the OSI field of your PNR. Below are the formats for each.

• Sabre:      W#UN*99112233
• Apollo:        T:$BIT99112233
• Worldspan:   5-IT99112233
• Amadeus:      FT*99112233
• Galileo:       TC99112233
• Sabre:       3OSI WN 99112233
• Apollo:      3OSI WN 99112233
• Amadeus:    OS WN 99112233
• Worldspan:    3OSI WN 99112233
• Galileo:     SI.WN*99112233

Q: Does Southwest Airlines contact customers when flight interruptions occur?

A: Travel agencies can use the following SSR formats to provide Southwest Airlines their customers contact details. Without this information Southwest may not be able to contact our mutual customers when flight interruptions occur.

You will need to input SSR message fields in accordance with the GDS you utilize.

CTCE Customer Email Addresses:

CTCM Customer Mobile Phone Number:

CTCR Customers Refused To Provide Contact Details:

Please contact your GDS helpdesk with specific questions regarding formats.

Guidelines for TMC Transaction Testing with Live Bookings

• • Start date
• • Point of contact
• • Number of transactions
• • Maximum of 10 test bookings
• • PNR’s must be booked 90 days out to avoid blocking inventory close to flight date
• • PNR’s must be cancelled within 24hrs to avoid refundability or ADM concerns

ARC Settlement

Travelport/Amadeus

• If you are new to booking Southwest in the GDS, please reach out to [email protected]
• If you have historically booked Southwest in the GDS and are simply looking to continue booking Southwest via Sabre, Apollo, Worldspan, Galileo, or Amadeus, please review the ticketing policy and Travel Agent Addendum available here: https://www.southwest.com/html/swabiz/gds-policy.html

You can do this directly through your SWABIZ account - no need to even pick up the phone!

Utilizing the SWABIZ Traveler Accounts will auto-populate all of your traveler's information, such as their name, date of birth, RR number, pre-check KTN, etc., all to save you time!

With the SWABIZ Ghost Card feature, your travelers can charge their reservations to your company's credit card without ever revealing your credit card's account or billing information. This saves you and your travelers' time and money on reimbursement and administrative costs!

The SWABIZ free-form Internal Reference Number field allows you to assign a word, number, or alpha-numeric value to each reservation (i.e. Marketing, Sales, Tech, e023500, etc.) This makes it easy to identify, prioritize, and/or lump each group, team or department together when running your travel report.

A SWABIZ account can have as many limited and/or full-access Company Travel Managers as needed. Plus, full-access CTMs can add other CTMs to the account as well.

Your SWABIZ account will remain active for six months after your last reservation transaction (i.e. initial booking, itinerary change, cancellation, etc.) If your account deactivates due to a lack of activity, you can call the SWABIZ Help Desk ( 1-888-479-2249 ) to request that it be reactivated. *Note that after an account is reactivated, it will only remain active for one month unless there is a reservation transaction.

For more info on Travel Policy, downloading reports, or login directions, visit here: https://www.swabiz.com/swabiz/ctm/help .

Visit our FAQ - Rapid Rewards page .

Visit our FAQ - EarlyBird Check-In page .

Visit our Click this link to read our GDS Ticketing Policy .

Yes! View our Contract of Carriage .

Click the link to read our Customer Service Commitment .

Get in touch:

• For questions related to your SWABIZ account, please call 1-888-479-2249 (Monday through Friday, 5:00 a.m. - 12:00 a.m. CT).
• We’re updating your service experience.
• PrimaryPartner Service: Our benchmark Southwest® Hospitality experience available to all our business Customers.
• PreferredPartner Service: Our dedicated service experience for managed partnerships with expedited call access for travel managers.
• PremierPartner Service: Our best-in-class experience for managed partnerships with a priority service line for travel managers, plus a dedicated line for travelers.
• Connect with an account manager to learn more about these services and how we can best serve your travel needs.
• To cancel or change a reservation or request a copy of a past receipt, please call 1-800-435-9792 .
• To request a refund, make a complaint or commendation, or for inquiries on your Rapid Rewards account, call 1-855-234-4654 .
• General inquiries: [email protected]

Help Center

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• Privacy Policy
• Do Not Sell/Share My Info

© 2023 Southwest Airlines Co. All Rights Reserved.

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Business Solutions including all features.

Statistics on " Business travel in the United States "

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• Air travel frequency of U.S. travelers as of April 2014
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¿Qué es una TMC (Travel Management Company, compañía de gestión de viajes de negocios) y qué es el BTS (Business Travel Software, software de viajes de empresa)?

Gestionar la organización y el presupuesto de los viajes de los empleados puede llevar mucho tiempo. Son muchas las empresas que optan por una asistencia externa, que puede adoptar la forma de una Empresa de Gestión de Viajes de Negocios (en inglés Travel Management Company, TMC) o de un Software de Viajes de Empresa (en inglés Business Travel Software , BTS) especializado. Cada una de estas soluciones de gestión de viajes ofrece distintos tipos de asistencia y ventajas. Veamos en qué consisten y qué ofrecen estas dos soluciones diferentes.

¿Qué es una empresa de gestión de viajes (TMC)?

Una Empresa de Gestión de Viajes (o TMC) es una empresa independiente que ofrece un servicio de gestión de viajes a otras empresas . Incluye desde la reserva de vuelos y hoteles hasta la reserva de coches de alquiler, salas de reuniones, taxis y restaurantes. Algunas TMC ofrecen también servicios adicionales, como redactar pólizas de viaje, gestionar gastos y ofrecer asistencia de atención al cliente para hacer frente a cualquier imprevisto antes o durante el viaje. Suelen tener un equipo de agentes de viajes que ofrecen apoyo y asesoramiento a las empresas. La principal ventaja de una TMC es que ofrece una solución de servicio completo con asistencia personalizada. Tu empresa no tendrá que dedicar su personal interno a organizar tus viajes de negocios. Básicamente, estás subcontratando un departamento de gestión de viajes. Si bien las TMC suelen encontrarte las mejores ofertas y ahorrarte dinero en vuelos, alojamiento, etc., también tendrás que pagar por sus servicios, lo que puede equilibrar el ahorro.

¿Qué es el software de viajes de negocios (BTS)?

El Software de viajes de negocios , por su parte, es una solución tecnológica para la gestión de viajes de empresa que permite a tus empleados controlar la organización de sus viajes. Ofrece una interfaz sencilla y fácil de usar que contiene una serie de opciones de viaje flexibles . Los procesos son ágiles y completos, lo que te permite a ti y a tus empleados controlar en todo momento la organización de los viajes de empresa con el mínimo esfuerzo.

Además de los viajes de negocios y las reuniones, el programa informático:

• Gestiona los desplazamientos al trabajo y fuera del horario laboral
• Gestionar eventos de empresa
• Viajes para clientes

El software también te permite establecer y aplicar políticas de viajes corporativas e individuales. Con funciones como las herramientas de reserva en línea, el control de gastos y la gestión del perfil del viajero, un BTS puede hacer que la gestión de tus viajes de empresa sea más fácil, eficaz y barata .

Optar por una TMC o una BTS depende de las necesidades y preferencias específicas de tu empresa en materia de viajes de negocios. Tanto una TMC como una BTS ofrecen a tu empresa una solución de gestión de viajes, pero con enfoques y ventajas diferentes. Sin embargo, si te atrae la idea de mantener el control total de todas tus necesidades y costes de viaje, ¿por qué no llevas las cosas al siguiente nivel y echas un vistazo a nuestra aplicación, el Software de Viajes de Negocios definitivo que te trae la Mobility Super App con la mayor oferta de vehículos para consumidores de toda Europa?

¿Por qué utilizar el software de gestión de viajes de negocios?

El software de gestión de viajes de negocios (BTS) es una herramienta esencial para las empresas cuyos empleados viajan con regularidad y para las que solamente necesitan viajar de vez en cuando . Permite a tus empleados más flexibilidad sobre la forma en que viajan, te da visibilidad sobre cómo se mueve tu empresa y elimina el estrés de contabilizar manualmente los recibos de viaje.

El software de viajes de empresa es potente y flexible, lo que te permite mantener fácilmente el control de tus viajes de empresa, sin dejar de centrarte en lo que es importante para tu negocio. Echa un vistazo a estas cinco razones por las que un BTS puede ser justo lo que tu empresa necesita.

5 ventajas de utilizar un software de reservas de viajes para empresas

Vehículos de alquiler privados.

FREENOW for business es un BTS que está respaldado por una impresionante flota de cómodos vehículos privados de alquiler.

Incluida la mayor gama de transporte de empresa de emisiones cero de Europa, que ofrece a tus empleados una experiencia de viaje más fluida y eficiente, al mismo tiempo que te ayuda a reducir la huella de carbono de tu empresa y a cumplir tus objetivos de sostenibilidad.

La Super App de Movilidad FREENOW incorpora muchas otras funciones, como reserva y facturación móvil, gestión de itinerarios y alertas de viaje, que mejoran la experiencia de tus empleados . También puedes utilizarla para llevar a tu equipo a casa sano y salvo después de trabajar hasta tarde o de la fiesta de Navidad. Con el Web Booker, también puedes reservar un taxi para tus clientes sin necesidad de que se descarguen la aplicación.

Reducción de costes

Un BTS como el Gestor de Viajes de FREENOW for Business ofrece una serie de funciones útiles, como ayudar a las empresas a ahorrar dinero en gastos de viaje. Puedes controlar tus gastos con funciones como la comparación de precios de distintos proveedores y la creación y seguimiento de políticas de viaje y centros de costes individuales.

Aumento de eficiencia

Un BTS puede simplificar los viajes de negocios ofreciendo una plataforma única en la que los empleados pueden buscar y reservar vuelos, hoteles, coches de alquiler, coches de alquiler privados, autobuses, trenes y otros servicios. Este proceso de reserva racionalizado ahorra tiempo y reduce el riesgo de errores o duplicidades. Asimismo, todos los pagos están centralizados, con informes de gastos detallados y una factura mensual. Elimina el molesto trabajo de procesar los gastos. Puedes seguir los viajes en tiempo real en un panel central.

Ahorra tiempo en los viajes de negocios

Los usuarios de FREENOW for Business disfrutan de actualizaciones en tiempo real de su itinerario de viaje. Esto permite a los empleados ajustar rápidamente sus planes y evitar pérdidas de tiempo . También pueden elegir las opciones de viaje adecuadas para su ruta. Si los planes cambian por cualquier motivo, pueden reservar fácilmente un coche de alquiler privado en la aplicación, ver cuándo llegará y cuánto durará el viaje.

Viajes de negocios más sostenibles

El software de FREENOW hace un seguimiento de la huella de carbono de los viajes de negocios de cada empleado y proporciona informes detallados sobre el CO₂ . Estos datos te servirán para fijar tus objetivos de sostenibilidad y potenciar tu estrategia de RSC. Ajusta fácilmente tus políticas de viajes para reducir las emisiones.

Estos cinco puntos son únicamente algunos ejemplos de cómo un BTS como FREENOW for Business te ayuda a mejorar tus viajes de negocios. Con un BTS, podrás:

• Ahorrar tiempo y dinero
• Facilitar la vida a tus viajeros
• Consultar todos tus viajes de negocios en tiempo real y controlar tus gastos de viaje.
• Demostrar el compromiso de tu empresa con los viajes de negocios sostenibles .

¿Qué tipo de asistencia puedes esperar de nuestro software de viajes de negocios?

El software de viajes de negocios de FREENOW, ofrece una amplia variedad de funciones que te ayudarán en tus necesidades de gestión de viajes, entre las que se incluyen:

• Gestión de cuentas corporativas : FREENOW es una agencia de viajes de negocios que ofrece una plataforma centralizada de gestión de viajes para gestionar cuentas de viajes de negocios, permitiendo a las empresas añadir y eliminar empleados fácilmente, establecer políticas de viajes y controlar los gastos de viaje
• Alquiler de vehículos y reserva de taxis : FREENOW permite a los empleados reservar fácilmente vehículos de alquiler privados y taxis para viajes de negocios a través de una única plataforma, reduciendo la necesidad de múltiples aplicaciones o servicios
• Seguimiento de gastos en tiempo real : a diferencia de otros proveedores de viajes de negocios, FREENOW realiza el seguimiento de los gastos de viaje en tiempo real, proporcionando a los empleados una visión precisa y actualizada de sus gastos y facilitando la presentación de informes de gastos.
• Pago dentro de la aplicación : FREENOW ofrece opciones de pago centralizado dentro de la aplicación, lo que reduce la necesidad de que los empleados lleven dinero en efectivo o tarjetas de crédito mientras viajan por negocios y te permite pagar todos los viajes de negocios con una sola factura mensual.
• Apoyo a la sostenibilidad : FREENOW ofrece opciones de viaje sostenible como vehículos eléctricos, eMopeds y viajes compartidos, promoviendo viajes de negocios más respetuosos con el medio ambiente, e informes detallados que te ayudan a realizar un seguimiento de tu huella de carbono y alcanzar tus objetivos de RSC
• Crear y aplicar políticas de viajes : FREENOW te permite crear políticas de viajes y centros de costes individuales para cada equipo y realizar un seguimiento de los gastos en tiempo real para asegurarte de que mantienes el control de tus gastos.

Si aún no estás seguro de qué solución de gestión de viajes es la que más te conviene, echa un vistazo a la plataforma FREENOW for Business y empieza a usarla gratis. La completa plataforma de software de viajes para empresas de FREE NOW ofrece soluciones de gestión de viajes corporativos que dan soporte a la gestión de cuentas, el transporte a distancia y la reserva de taxis. Te ayuda con el seguimiento de gastos, pagos, sostenibilidad y mucho más. Gestionar tus viajes de empresa nunca ha sido tan fácil: descubre cómo puedes ayudar a tus empleados a desplazarse sin problemas, ahorrando tiempo y costes.

In Moscow’s Technological Advances, a ‘Double-Edged Sword’

The latest example is Face Pay, which replaces a Metro card with facial recognition. It may be advanced, but activists are sounding the alarm on privacy issues.

By Celestine Bohlen

The Moscow Metro — a world-class marvel of efficient mass transportation since it opened in 1935 — made headlines last month with a very 21st-century innovation: a payment system that doesn’t require passengers to produce a ticket, a transit card, a smartphone or a contactless bank card. All they have to do is show their face.

By Oct. 15, the facial recognition system, called Face Pay, was up and running at about 240 stations on the Moscow Metro, a sprawling and constantly expanding system famous for its on-time track record and its grandiose and ornate stations.

Moscow city officials were quick to tout the system’s latest technological innovation, one of several over the last decade. “There are no analogues of Face Pay in terms of quality and ease of use for a passenger anywhere in the world,” said Maksim Liksutov, deputy mayor for transport.

To activate Face Pay, passengers must connect their photo with a bank card and the Metro’s Troika, or transit card, via a special mobile app. Once connected, a camera at the turnstiles identifies their faces (even with masks on) and opens the gates. In theory, it should take two to three seconds for a passenger to clear the turnstile, easing the crush of people at peak rush hours.

It is one of the most visible — and controversial — of the city’s projects to modernize its services, one that takes full advantage of advancing biometric technology and the skills of a new generation of Russian computer engineers. “The technology is new and very complex, we will continue to work on improving it,’’ said Moscow’s mayor, Sergei Sobyanin, in a statement.

But digital privacy activists in Russia were quick to raise the alarm, noting that the new system is not just about improving service on the Moscow Metro. “It is a good pretext to put cameras at the turnstiles,’’ said Artyom Koslyuk, a director at Roskomsvoboda, a digital rights group based in Moscow. “This will allow them to perfect the algorithms used for the recognition of faces.’’

According to Mr. Koslyuk, Moscow ranks third in the world for the most surveillance on streets and public transport, with some 200,000 cameras placed around the city and on the Metro to help police identify criminals and prevent crime. Russian police have already used facial recognition to find and arrest demonstrators who participated in peaceful opposition protests.

The two other countries that have gone ahead with facial recognition payment systems are China and Belarus, where privacy rights are also of little concern to the government. (In Belarus, the facial recognition system on the Minsk metro is called Look and Go.) In contrast, the European Parliament voted last month in favor of a nonbinding resolution to ban use of facial recognition technology in public places for police purposes.

Moscow officials have tried to calm concerns about privacy invasion by insisting that the images and data collected are “securely encrypted.’’ Roskomsvoboda, though, said they have uncovered evidence that the system is porous, vulnerable to intruders who can use the data and images for criminal purposes.

Privacy advocates are pushing for a more transparent system of control for this and other advanced, and often intrusive, technologies. “We need to be sure that all these innovations are used to help the people, not harm them,’’ said Mr. Koslyuk.

Face Pay is part of a broader set of efforts in the city to institute technological solutions. Moscow is undoubtedly Russia’s “smartest” city, not least because it is the nation’s capital, and a focus of government attention. Its 12.5 million people make it the second most populous city in Europe — and it is growing. Between 2002 and 2010, while Russia’s population decreased by 1.2 percent, Moscow’s grew by 10.9 percent. And the average wage in the capital is almost double the national average.

The capital also gets royal treatment from the federal government. In 2019, Moscow’s urban renewal budget equaled that of the rest of the country.

“Moscow has the power in terms of finance and budgets,’’ said Sergei Kamolov, a professor at the prestigious Moscow State Institute of International Relations. “Moscow is in the avant-garde, a test case for all different kinds of systems.’’

Two years ago, Russia adopted its own system for ranking its “smart cities,” measuring what is called their “I.Q. level.” This provides benchmarks for cities to measure progress in putting modern techniques and digital services in place for their population. Mr. Kamolov said these are useful tools to pressure local officials to meet targets set in a national “Smart Cities” program.

Mr. Kamolov, who is member of a working group on the “Smart Cities” program, cautions that its ideas and technologies are not easily duplicated from city to city. Nor, he said, do fancy new technologies necessarily have an impact on the citizens’ quality of life. “It seems to me that ‘Smart Cities’ is a deep marketing concept,’’ he said in a telephone interview.

In recent years, Russia has put a major nationwide effort into its e-government services. Ahead of the 2018 World Cup, Russia developed a system of e-visas, allowing tourists to come into the country for a limited time and for limited purpose. And like many countries, it has developed a popular online government portal — known as Gosuslugi , a one-stop website where citizens can retrieve documents, pay fines and make appointments. In a 2020 United Nations e-government survey , Russia’s services ranked 36th out of 193 countries.

In this, as in other areas, Moscow leads the way. More Muscovites use Gosuslgi proportionately than any other region of Russia — not surprising given its concentration of young, educated and computer literate people. But other regions are stepping up efforts to catch up, by offering special courses for computer literacy , especially for the elderly.

Moscow and six other regions were also used as a test case for Russia’s experiment with online voting in last September’s parliamentary elections. The system was challenged by democracy protesters, who described it as a “black box” that allowed the government to fiddle with the vote. Setting aside the contested results — a huge caveat, to be sure — online voting did its job, at least on a technical level.

Moscow has introduced other digital services in health care, in schools and in the legal system, but transportation continues to receive a hefty share of the city’s modernization budget.

According to Mr. Kamolov, Moscow has the largest fleet of electronic buses in Europe while the Metro — which now moves about six million passengers on weekdays (down from more than eight million in the pre-Covid era) — still commands a large portion of public funds: $27 billion for expansion and improvement from 2011 to 2022 , most of it for expansion but some of it undoubtedly for the facial recognition system that is now expected to be introduced in other Russian cities.

At Roskomsvoboda, Mr. Koslyuk says the key to introducing advanced digital services that depend on personal data is trust. ‘‘We need to be sure there are controls,’’ he said. “These improvements can be a double-edged sword.”