Stela Jaqueta

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’s been an exciting week here at Supply Chain Now! Catch up on all the latest episodes, interviews, conversations, and livestreams right here for all the hottest supply chain news! On Saturday, Scott and Greg welcomed Eric Johnson with JOC & Enrique Alvarez with Vector Global Logistics to the podcast!     On Monday, Scott and Greg spotlight one of the strategic sponsor partners of the AIAG Supply Chain Summit, Surgere, as they welcome Robert Fink and Katie Lewis to the show.     On Tuesday’s podcast episode, Scott & Greg welcomed Alex Pradhan, Product Strategy Leader with John Galt Solutions, to discuss the top three lessons learned in 2020 from a supply chain planning perspective.     On Wednesday, Scott and Greg hosted the Supply Chain Buzz where they dove into the boom in warehouse employment, sustainability shifts within the business environment, and other hot supply chain news!     On TECHquila Sunrise this Thursday, Jason Perez, CEO and founder of YARDZ, joined Greg White to talk about how he found the will and the skill to succeed in supply chain tech against all odds.   And we wrapped up the week with JP Wiggins of 3Gtms and Kara…