Large markets like the transportation sector take time to shift, but in the end, everything is cyclical. For the past few years, fueled largely by the supply chain chaos caused from the global Pandemic, carriers have been the ones calling the shots. Across the board, fees were added, rates increased, and service guarantees all but disappeared. It seems impermanence is the only constant in our world though, and now power is one once again shifting back towards the shippers.
The WSJ reports that on the ocean side of things, new rules and regulations are allowing importers to fight back against fees imposed by carriers during the height of the Pandemic, with an estimated $800k in refunds already given.
This is an important precedent, and a reminder to shippers everywhere. Historically, shippers have often felt powerless against added fees and rate increases imposed by their carriers. “It is what it is,” is a common refrain in logistics departments, mainly because decision makers felt they didn’t have the time, resources or expertise to do anything about it.
“Do not go gentle into that good night
Rage, rage against the dying of the light.”
- Dylan Thomas
The good news is, no matter what you ship, or by what mode, there are always savings to be found. Zero Down’s Transportation Spend Management System, FreightOptics, provides best-in-class Freight Audit & Pay services that are able to comb through digital or paper invoices down to the penny level. Our system automatically identifies erroneous charges or incorrect fees, and our knowledgeable team fights to make sure that money gets put back in your pocket as quickly as possible.
Unfortunately, errors and overcharges don’t only happen on the carrier side. But don’t worry, Zero Down and FreightOptics have your internal team covered as well. After our system audits your freight and parcel invoices, we create consolidated batch payments sent directly to your inbox, ensuring accurate, stress-free billing. This is actually a win-win, as it also keeps your carriers happy with on-time payments.
It’s easy to throw your hands up when carrier invoices arrive, but there is a solution. If you’re interested in securing refunds and saving money, reach out to us today for a Free Demo of our advanced Transportation Spend Management System, and let’s Rage together.
