Matt Brink

Blog Post written by Ohad Azgad, CEO of Cinch Logistics leaders must control costs while maintaining service quality, but hidden freight charges often erode profits due to poor visibility. Cinch analyzed over 7,000 line-item charges from 30+ freight forwarders, brokers, and carriers in FMCG and manufacturing, uncovering three major cost drivers: The Frequency-Impact Paradox Frequent charges like fuel surcharges appear in 14.4% of invoices but contribute just 4.2% of hidden costs. In contrast, customs duties—though present in only 5.8% of invoices—account for 52% of hidden costs. Identifying these patterns helps logistics teams focus on impactful cost reductions. Inconsistent Invoice Terminology Charge names like “Fuel Surcharge” vs. “Bunker Adjustment Factor” vary between carriers, reducing cost visibility and negotiation leverage. Standardizing terminology improves tracking, clarity, and vendor negotiations. Hidden Budget Risks: Customs, Duties & On-Carriage Fees Customs duties account for 46% of hidden costs, while on-carriage fees add 26%, despite appearing in only 4.3% of invoices. These charges are often underestimated during quoting, leading to budget overruns. Proactive management prevents unexpected expenses.   Strategies to Optimize Freight Costs Real-Time Data Analytics: Platforms like Cinch provide charge visibility during quoting, improving cost forecasting and negotiation leverage. Standardized Terminology: Consistent charge names enhance cost…

Stay up to date on all the latest conversations, interviews, and episodes we released this week here at Supply Chain Now! We started our week off with a conversation on Supply Chain Now with not one, but two Allisons! Scott and Greg had the opportunity to talk with Allison Grealis the President of the Women in Manufacturing Association and Education Foundation, and Allison Giddens the Co-President of Win-Tech and Treasurer of the Georgia Chapter of Women in Manufacturing. Scott focused on the history of Labor Day in Monday’s This Week in Business History’s episode. Scott talks about the history of the holiday and the part that everyone plays when it comes to the global workforce. On Tuesday, we published a new episode of TEKTOK with host Karin Bursa featuring Greg White, host of TECHquila Sunrise. During this episode Karin talks with Greg about his perspective on how to be successful in today’s HOT Supply Chain Tech market. On Wednesday’s episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott and special co-host Mike Griswold, Vice President of Research at Gartner, interviewed Scott Mann. Scott Mann is known for being a Green Beret, Retired Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Army, and President of Rooftop Leadership.…