Controlling Supply Chain Costs

To find reductions in supply chain costs, supply chain strategies have to align with customer expectations and business goals. Supply chain strategy gauges the cost-benefit trade-offs of operative components. Knowledge of your particular processes, requirements and needs is essential to find cost savings.Here are some common places to look for cost savings which include warehouse space, inventory stock, supplier relationships, transportation modes and lanes, and order processing.

 4 ways to control supply chain costs:

Measure Performance: Metrics are a powerful way to develop your understanding of your supply chain. When reviewing transportation procedures for cost saving opportunities, metrics like cost analyses (light load detail, average cost per pound) and performance analyses (on-time performance, carrier scorecards) identify opportunities to improve productivity, payments and visibility.

Analyze Total Cost. There are multiple variables responsible for the total landed cost: original price of the product, transportation, taxes, insurance, and handling fees. Focus on areas where costs can be controlled. Usually, evaluating your transportation expenses leads to cost saving opportunities. The ability to consolidate freight, automate BOLs, and determine the best mode of transport not only cuts costs but streamlines supply chain operations.

Forecast and Plan. Forecasting demand has a significant effect on the supply chain – it touches inventory, labor, technology and transportation. By predicting demand, considering delays, and anticipating market conditions, you can develop a custom plan to better manage supply chain costs. Avoiding disruptions and consistently meeting demand also improves overall service.

Introduce Flexibility. A supply chain strategy should be created, evaluated and changed based on service requirements and business goals. It should be a flexible design, supporting a reliable carrier and shipment network, create minimal risk or error, and should analyze of productivity and efficiency measures. Supporting these areas of your supply chain will help you identify and reduce costs, all the while creating expectations and alternative procedures.

Hopefully if you have found this article useful and if you should require any additional information regarding how to reduce cost savings in your supply chain. Do not hesitate to contact Millennium Logistics Management.