Amanda Luton

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…

Special Guest Blog Post written by Brittany Caskey, Chief Commercial Officer – Logistics with DP World Americas   I was recently invited to speak with students in the Supply Chain and Logistics Organization at Georgia Tech, and it reminded me why I still find this industry so energizing. I walked them through my own path — starting in logistics right out of college, building my foundation at UPS in sales and sales management, and eventually stepping into my role today as Chief Operating Officer at DP World in the Americas. What I shared with them is something I still believe deeply: logistics keeps life interesting, because no two days are ever the same. Customer expectations change. Geopolitical realities shift. Trade lanes evolve. Weather, labor, technology — everything is in constant motion. That constant change is what keeps logistics professionals sharp and solutions focused. It’s also why customer experience has become the true differentiator in today’s supply chains. Because while disruption is unavoidable, how you manage it is a choice.   Customers Don’t Care Why — They Care That It Works One message I emphasized with the students is the same one I reinforce with customers and teams every day: customers…