Matt Harding

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…

It has been another busy week for Supply Chain Now! Did you catch all the episodes? If not, no worries! Check them all out here:   We started out the week with a new episode in our Logistics with a Purpose series sponsored by our good friends at Vector Global Logistics. Listen as Scott, Greg, and Enrique have a great conversation with Mickey Horner with Rise Against Hunger.     On Tuesday, Scott and Greg were joined by AIAG’s CR Summit speaker Joerg Walden, CEO of iPoint.     Then we published the new and improved Supply Chain Buzz, with Scott and Greg sharing and discussing the latest news and events in Supply Chain and beyond.     Scott and Greg were joined by Randy Strang with MedShare on Thursday for another episode in the Logistics with a Purpose series, sponsored by Vector Global Logistics.     And to wrap up the week, Scott and fellow host Fred Tolbert with Demand Solutions were proud to host three exceptional Supply Chain students from the University of Georgia’s Terry College of Business.