{"id":36758,"date":"2026-06-24T08:00:00","date_gmt":"2026-06-24T12:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/?p=36758"},"modified":"2026-06-04T11:27:29","modified_gmt":"2026-06-04T15:27:29","slug":"reduce-supply-chain-costs","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/reduce-supply-chain-costs\/","title":{"rendered":"How to reduce supply chain costs: 10 strategies that work"},"content":{"rendered":"<header class=\"entry-header has-dark-background-color entry-header--standard entry-header--has-illustration entry-header--has-illustration--standard\">\n\t<div class=\"container\">\n\t\t<div class=\"entry-header__row row align-center\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-lg-7 col-xlg-6 entry-header__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"component component-single-header\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"entry-header__misc text--subtitle text--uppercase text--small\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/category\/money-matters\/\" class=\"entry-header__link\">Money Matters<\/a>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"entry-title-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h1 class=\"entry-title\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\tHow to reduce supply chain costs: 10 strategies that work\t\t\t\t\t<\/h1>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"entry-header__description\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\tLooking to reduce supply chain costs? Explore 10 practical strategies to identify cost drivers, improve efficiency, and protect your margins without disrupting operations.\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"single-post-details container\">\n\t\t<div class=\"col\">\n\t\t\t<span class=\"posted-on \">Published <time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-06-24T08:00:00-04:00\">June 24, 2026<\/time><\/span><span class=\"reading-time\"> min read<\/span>\n\t\t<button\n\t\t\ttype=\"button\"\n\t\t\tclass=\"social-share-button button button--icon button--secondary js-social-share-button\"\n\t\t\tdata-share-title=\"How to reduce supply chain costs: 10 strategies that work\"\n\t\t\tdata-share-url=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/reduce-supply-chain-costs\/\"\n\t\t\tdata-share-text=\"Please read this interesting article\"\n\t\t>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"social-share-button__share-label\">Share<\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"social-share-button__copy-label\" hidden>Copy Link<\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"social-share-button__copy-tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\" hidden>Copied<\/span>\n\t\t<\/button>\n\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t<\/header>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-post-author has-dark-background-color alignfull\">\n\t<div class=\"container\">\n\t\t<div class=\"col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"co-authors\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t<div class=\"entry-author-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t<a class=\"entry-author\" href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/author\/annette-grotz\/\">\n\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"40\" height=\"40\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2026\/05\/Annette-Grotz-350x350.jpg\" class=\"entry-author__image\" alt=\"Annette Grotz\" \/>\t\t\t\t<span class=\"entry-author__name\">Annette Grotz<\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Rising costs rarely show\u00a0up all\u00a0at once. They creep in with higher freight rates\u00a0here and\u00a0excess inventory there until margins start to feel the pressure. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If that sounds familiar,\u00a0you\u2019re\u00a0not alone. Many businesses in 2026 are focused on efficiency and cost control, but lack the visibility and coordination needed to act decisively.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But reducing supply chain costs&nbsp;doesn\u2019t&nbsp;require a complete overhaul. With the right strategies, you can&nbsp;identify&nbsp;where money is going, improve efficiency, and protect margins,&nbsp;without increasing risk or disrupting operations.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This guide walks through what supply chain costs include, why they matter, and 10 proven ways to reduce them sustainably.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n<?xml encoding=\"utf-8\" ?><div class=\"wp-block-yoast-seo-table-of-contents yoast-table-of-contents\"><ul><li><a href=\"#h-what-are-supply-chain-costs\" data-level=\"2\">What are supply chain costs?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-why-reducing-supply-chain-costs-matters-for-your-business-nbsp\" data-level=\"2\">Why reducing supply chain costs matters for your business &nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-common-challenges-that-drive-up-supply-chain-expenses-nbsp\" data-level=\"2\">Common challenges that drive up supply chain expenses &nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-10-proven-strategies-to-reduce-supply-chain-costs-nbsp\" data-level=\"2\">10 proven strategies to reduce supply chain costs &nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-how-technology-can-help-reduce-supply-chain-costs-nbsp\" data-level=\"2\">How technology can help reduce supply chain costs &nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-frequently-asked-questions-about-reducing-supply-chain-expenses-nbsp\" data-level=\"2\">Frequently asked questions about reducing supply chain expenses &nbsp;<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Key takeaways<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Supply chain costs can account for a significant portion of operating expenses, making cost reduction a major opportunity to improve profitability.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Start by identifying your biggest cost drivers across procurement, inventory, transportation, warehousing, and production.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Improving forecasting, optimizing inventory levels, and streamlining logistics can deliver meaningful supply chain savings.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Automation and stronger supplier collaboration help reduce waste, errors, and unnecessary operating costs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Modern ERP and supply chain management software provide the visibility needed to reduce costs while maintaining service levels and resilience.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-are-supply-chain-costs\"><strong>What are supply chain costs?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Supply chain costs are the total expenses involved in moving a product from supplier to customer. These typically fall into five main categories:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Procurement<\/strong>: Sourcing raw materials or finished goods from suppliers&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Production<\/strong>: Manufacturing or assembly costs, including labor and equipment&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Inventory<\/strong>: Storage, warehousing, and carrying costs&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Transportation<\/strong>: Shipping, freight, and distribution expenses&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Quality and compliance<\/strong>: Inspections, returns, and regulatory requirements&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Understanding these categories is the first step in any effective supply chain cost reduction strategy.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-why-reducing-supply-chain-costs-matters-for-your-business-nbsp\"><strong>Why reducing supply chain costs matters for your business<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Supply chain expenses can account for&nbsp;<strong>50\u201370% of total operating costs<\/strong>, making them one of the biggest levers for improving profitability.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Reducing these costs helps you:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Protect margins<\/strong>: Keep profitability stable even as external costs rise&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Stay competitive<\/strong>: Offer better pricing or reinvest savings into growth&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Weather disruptions<\/strong>: Build resilience against supply shocks and volatility&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Free up cash<\/strong>: Unlock working capital tied up in inefficient processes&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-common-challenges-that-drive-up-supply-chain-expenses-nbsp\"><strong>Common challenges that drive up supply chain expenses<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If your costs feel harder to control,&nbsp;it\u2019s&nbsp;likely due to&nbsp;one (or more) of these&nbsp;common challenges:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Poor demand forecasting<\/strong>&nbsp;leading to overstocking or stockouts&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Inefficient supplier relationships<\/strong>&nbsp;with missed opportunities for better terms&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Fragmented systems<\/strong>&nbsp;that create data silos and manual work&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Rising transportation costs<\/strong>&nbsp;with limited optimization&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Excess waste<\/strong>&nbsp;in production, inventory, or processes&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Lack of visibility<\/strong>&nbsp;into real-time operations and cost drivers&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If&nbsp;you\u2019ve&nbsp;experienced these pain points, just know&nbsp;you\u2019re&nbsp;not alone.&nbsp;The key&nbsp;to overcoming them&nbsp;is knowing where to focus first.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-10-proven-strategies-to-reduce-supply-chain-costs-nbsp\"><strong>10 proven strategies to reduce supply chain costs<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Reducing supply chain costs can feel overwhelming,&nbsp;especially when every part of your operation is interconnected. But meaningful progress&nbsp;doesn\u2019t&nbsp;come from trying to fix everything at once.&nbsp;Rather,&nbsp;the most effective cost reduction strategies in supply chain management start small and build over time.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The key is to focus on what will make the biggest impact first. That might be a high-cost area like transportation, or a recurring issue like excess inventory or manual processes. By&nbsp;identifying&nbsp;your biggest cost drivers and addressing them with targeted improvements, you can start to see measurable savings quickly&nbsp;without disrupting day-to-day operations.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">From there, it becomes easier to build momentum. Each improvement creates more visibility, frees up resources, and puts you in a stronger position to tackle the next challenge.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Start with two or three strategies that align with your business priorities, test what works, and scale from there.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-1-audit-your-supply-chain-costs-nbsp\"><strong>1. Audit your supply chain costs<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before making changes, understand where your money is going.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Review 6\u201312 months of data across procurement, warehousing, transportation, and production. Often, the&nbsp;<strong>80\/20 rule<\/strong>&nbsp;applies: 80% of your costs come from 20% of activities.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>First step:<\/strong>&nbsp;List your top five expense categories and&nbsp;identify&nbsp;which has grown the most.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-2-improve-demand-forecasting-nbsp\"><strong>2. Improve demand forecasting<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Inaccurate forecasting leads to excess inventory or missed sales, which both&nbsp;can hurt your bottom line.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Better forecasting aligns&nbsp;purchasing, production, and distribution with actual demand.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>First step:<\/strong>&nbsp;Use historical sales data and trends to refine&nbsp;forecasts and&nbsp;update them regularly.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-3-negotiate-better-supplier-terms-nbsp\"><strong>3. Negotiate better supplier terms<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Suppliers value reliable partners. That gives you&nbsp;leverage.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Consolidating&nbsp;orders, committing to longer-term agreements, or paying early can unlock discounts.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>First step:<\/strong>&nbsp;Review contracts annually and&nbsp;identify&nbsp;opportunities for renegotiation.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-4-nbsp-optimize-nbsp-transportation-and-nbsp-logistics-nbsp\"><strong>4.&nbsp;Optimize&nbsp;transportation and&nbsp;logistics<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Transportation often accounts for&nbsp;<strong>30\u201350% of supply chain costs<\/strong>, making it a high-impact area.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Simple changes,&nbsp;like&nbsp;consolidating&nbsp;shipments or planning routes more efficiently,&nbsp;can drive significant savings.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>First step:<\/strong>&nbsp;Combine smaller shipments into larger ones where possible and compare carrier rates.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-5-reduce-inventory-carrying-costs-nbsp\"><strong>5. Reduce inventory carrying costs<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Excess inventory ties up cash and increases storage costs, while too little leads to stockouts.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The goal is balance.&nbsp;Hold just enough inventory to meet demand without&nbsp;overcommitting&nbsp;capital or space.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>First step:<\/strong>&nbsp;Set reorder points based on demand and lead&nbsp;times and&nbsp;conduct regular inventory audits.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Using tools like\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/inventory-management\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>inventory management software<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0can help\u00a0maintain\u00a0that balance with real-time visibility.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-6-improve-warehouse-efficiency-nbsp\"><strong>6. Improve warehouse efficiency<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Small inefficiencies&nbsp;add up&nbsp;quickly in warehouse operations.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For example, just 10 extra minutes per order spent&nbsp;locating&nbsp;products can translate into hours of lost productivity each week.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>First step:<\/strong>&nbsp;Reorganize layouts for faster picking and consider barcode scanning or batch picking.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-7-automate-repetitive-processes-nbsp\"><strong>7. Automate repetitive processes<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Manual processes are time-consuming and prone to errors.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Automation can streamline tasks like:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Invoice processing&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Reorder alerts&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Shipment tracking&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Demand forecasting&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>First step:<\/strong>&nbsp;Identify&nbsp;one or two repetitive tasks and automate them first to see quick gains.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-8-nbsp-eliminate-nbsp-waste-with-lean-principles-nbsp\"><strong>8.&nbsp;Eliminate&nbsp;waste with lean principles<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Lean supply chain management focuses on&nbsp;eliminating&nbsp;waste without sacrificing quality.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Common types of waste include:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Overproduction&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Waiting time&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Excess handling&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Defects&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>First step:<\/strong>&nbsp;Map one process end-to-end and&nbsp;identify&nbsp;bottlenecks or inefficiencies.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-9-strengthen-supplier-and-partner-communication-nbsp\"><strong>9. Strengthen supplier and partner communication<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Poor communication leads to delays, errors, and unnecessary costs.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Treat suppliers as strategic partners, not just vendors.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>First step:<\/strong>&nbsp;Schedule regular check-ins and share forecasts or demand updates to improve alignment.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-10-embrace-sustainability-and-local-sourcing-nbsp\"><strong>10. Embrace sustainability and local sourcing<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Shorter, more sustainable supply chains can reduce both costs and risk.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Local sourcing cuts transportation expenses and improves responsiveness, while sustainable practices often reduce waste and energy costs.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>First step:<\/strong>&nbsp;Test one local or sustainable supplier and measure the impact before scaling.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"single-cta gated-content\">\n\t<div class=\"single-cta__positioner on-scroll-highlight__target\">\n\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__wrapper has-dark-background-color\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"single-cta__title h3\">Discover how to take the stress out of supply chain and inventory challenges<\/h2>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__description\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>Discover five ways analytics can help you avoid having too much or too little inventory.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\t\t\t\thref=\"#gate-850d5010-9047-4c6d-a982-e83b6ce2d349.\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\tclass=\"single-cta__button button button--primary\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t>Download now<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1440\" height=\"810\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/05\/GettyImages-1169342765-1440x810.jpg\" class=\"single-cta__image\" alt=\"woman at work\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/05\/GettyImages-1169342765-1440x810.jpg 1440w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 33vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-how-technology-can-help-reduce-supply-chain-costs-nbsp\"><strong>How technology can help reduce supply chain costs<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Many cost challenges stem from limited visibility and disconnected systems.&nbsp;That\u2019s&nbsp;where modern technology makes a difference.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Solutions like\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/erp\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>ERP system<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0and\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/erp\/cloud\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>cloud ERP system<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0platforms bring your data together, giving you real-time insight into costs, inventory, and operations.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With the right tools, you can:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Track expenses across the entire supply chain&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Automate manual processes&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Improve forecasting accuracy&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Identify&nbsp;inefficiencies faster&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Dedicated\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/supply-chain-management\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>supply chain management software<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0goes even further, helping you coordinate suppliers,\u00a0logistics, and inventory in one place.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For deeper insights, tools like\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/products\/supply-chain-intelligence\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Sage Supply Chain Intelligence<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0provide advanced analytics to uncover cost-saving opportunities you might otherwise miss.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you\u2019re exploring broader trends and benchmarks, the <a href=\"https:\/\/view-su2.highspot.com\/viewer\/f58494d94e5f570423685df64d4c651f#1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>2026 State of Supply Chain Report<\/strong><\/a> offers valuable context on where businesses are\u00a0focusing\u00a0their cost reduction efforts.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-frequently-asked-questions-about-reducing-supply-chain-expenses-nbsp\"><strong>Frequently asked questions about reducing supply chain expenses<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-is-the-80-20-rule-in-supply-chain-management-nbsp\"><strong>What is the 80\/20 rule in supply chain management?<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The 80\/20 rule (Pareto Principle) suggests that\u00a080% of costs come from 20% of activities or suppliers. By\u00a0identifying\u00a0and\u00a0optimizing\u00a0that high-impact 20%, you can achieve significant savings without overhauling your entire supply chain.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-are-the-5-nbsp-c-s-nbsp-of-supply-chain-management-nbsp\"><strong>What are the 5&nbsp;C\u2019s&nbsp;of supply chain management?<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The 5&nbsp;C\u2019s&nbsp;are:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Collaboration\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Cost\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Compliance\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Continuity\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Customer satisfaction\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Balancing these ensures you reduce costs without sacrificing quality or reliability.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-how-long-does-it-take-to-see-results-from-supply-chain-cost-reduction-efforts-nbsp\"><strong>How long does it take to see results from supply chain cost reduction efforts?<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It depends on the strategy:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Quick wins (like renegotiating shipping rates):\u00a0a few weeks\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Process improvements or automation:\u00a01\u20133 months\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Larger changes (like new systems or warehouse redesign):\u00a03\u20136 months\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Start small, track progress, and build momentum over time.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-can-small-businesses-achieve-the-same-supply-chain-cost-savings-as-large-enterprises-nbsp\"><strong>Can small businesses achieve the same supply chain cost savings as large enterprises?<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes\u2014often faster.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Smaller businesses are typically more agile, able to implement changes quickly and work directly with suppliers. With accessible tools like cloud-based ERP and supply chain platforms, they can achieve many of the same efficiencies as larger organizations.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Reducing supply chain costs&nbsp;isn\u2019t&nbsp;about cutting&nbsp;corners&nbsp;but&nbsp;rather taking advantage of the right resources. With better visibility, stronger processes, and the right technology, you can build a supply chain&nbsp;that\u2019s&nbsp;not just leaner, but more resilient and ready for whatever comes next.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><em>Ready to gain greater visibility into your supply chain? <\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><em>Discover how <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/products\/supply-chain-intelligence\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Sage Supply Chain Intelligence<\/a> can help you identify inefficiencies, reduce costs, and make more informed decisions.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n<section class=\"more-topics alignfull has-grey-light-background-color wp-block-sage-post-topics\">\n\t<div class=\"container\">\n\t\t<div class=\"row\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-12 col-lg-4\">\n\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"more-topics__title h2\">Browse more topics from this article<\/h3>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-12 col-lg-8\">\n\t\t\t\t<ul class=\"post-tags__list\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"post-tags__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/hub\/distribution\/\" class=\"post-tags__link button button--secondary\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tDistribution\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"post-tags__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/hub\/supply-chain-management\/\" class=\"post-tags__link button button--secondary\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tSupply chain management\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/ul>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n\n<div class=\"alignfull wp-block-sage-related-posts\">\n\t<section class=\"related-posts card-grid has-dark-background-color\">\n\t<div class=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"row\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"related-posts__heading related-posts__heading--featured h1\">Explore more wisdom<\/h2>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t<div class=\"row related-posts__featured\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col card-grid__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<article\n\t\tclass=\"card-post related-post related-post-0 post-32603 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-money-matters category-people-leadership tag-cloud-financial-management tag-cloud-technology tag-distribution tag-manufacturing tag-sage-x3 tag-technology business_type-growing-business industry-distribution industry-manufacturing card-post--is-clickable\"\n>\n\t<div class=\"card-post__media-wrapper\">\n\t\t<figure class=\"card-post__media\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1440\" height=\"810\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-594203315-1440x810.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-594203315-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-594203315-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-594203315-1440x810.jpg 1440w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 250px, (min-width: 30em) 100vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t<\/div>\n\n\t<div class=\"card-post__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__label\">Recommended<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__meta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-07-29T12:25:21-04:00\">July 29, 2026<\/time><\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"reading-time\">11 min read<\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<p class=\"card-post__title h3\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__title-link\"\n\t\t\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/how-to-reduce-distribution-costs\/\"\n\t\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tHow to reduce distribution costs and optimize profitability\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"card-post__description\">\n\t\t\t\tDistribution costs are among the biggest pressures on a distributor&#8217;s bottom line, but they&#8217;re more controllable than most leaders realize. Here&#8217;s how to identify, calculate, and reduce them.\t\t\t<\/p>\n\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"row related-posts__non-featured\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-12\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"related-posts__heading related-posts__heading--more h4\">More on this Topic<\/h2>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-6 col-lg-3 card-grid__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<article\n\t\tclass=\"card-post related-post related-post-1 post-30699 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-strategy-legal-operations tag-automation tag-digital-transformation tag-erp tag-inventory-management tag-supply-chain-management business_type-small-business business_type-growing-business\"\n>\n\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__link\"\n\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/what-is-order-management\/\"\n\t\t\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t<figure class=\"card-post__media\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"684\" height=\"384\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1355438061-684x384.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"Lady carrying cartons\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1355438061-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1355438061-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1355438061-1440x810.jpg 1440w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 250px, (min-width: 30em) 100vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__meta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-06-11T08:52:26-04:00\">June 11, 2026<\/time><\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"reading-time\">13 min read<\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<p class=\"card-post__title h5\">\n\t\t\tWhat is order management?\u00a0\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-6 col-lg-3 card-grid__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<article\n\t\tclass=\"card-post related-post related-post-2 post-29062 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-strategy-legal-operations tag-boss-your-business tag-business-intelligence tag-growing-a-business tag-inventory-management tag-productivity tag-staying-competitive tag-supply-chain-management business_type-small-business business_type-growing-business\"\n>\n\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__link\"\n\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/what-is-an-order-management-system-oms\/\"\n\t\t\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t<figure class=\"card-post__media\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"684\" height=\"384\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1417607997-684x384.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1417607997-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1417607997-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1417607997-1215x810.jpg 1215w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 250px, (min-width: 30em) 100vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__meta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-06-10T10:25:03-04:00\">June 10, 2026<\/time><\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"reading-time\">19 min read<\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<p class=\"card-post__title h5\">\n\t\t\tWhat is an order management system?\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-6 col-lg-3 card-grid__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<article\n\t\tclass=\"card-post related-post related-post-3 post-36674 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-strategy-legal-operations tag-distribution tag-erp tag-sage-x3 tag-supply-chain-management business_type-small-business business_type-growing-business industry-distribution industry-wholesale-distribution\"\n>\n\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__link\"\n\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/supply-chain-integration\/\"\n\t\t\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t<figure class=\"card-post__media\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"684\" height=\"384\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/10\/BrandShoot-LND_June2024_Distribution_0305-684x384.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/10\/BrandShoot-LND_June2024_Distribution_0305-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/10\/BrandShoot-LND_June2024_Distribution_0305-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/10\/BrandShoot-LND_June2024_Distribution_0305-1214x810.jpg 1214w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 250px, (min-width: 30em) 100vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__meta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-06-04T10:56:07-04:00\">June 4, 2026<\/time><\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"reading-time\">9 min read<\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<p class=\"card-post__title h5\">\n\t\t\tWhat\u00a0is supply chain integration and why does it matter?\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-6 col-lg-3 card-grid__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<article\n\t\tclass=\"card-post related-post related-post-4 post-36541 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-strategy-legal-operations tag-distribution tag-sage-x3 tag-supply-chain-management business_type-small-business business_type-growing-business industry-distribution industry-wholesale-distribution\"\n>\n\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__link\"\n\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/supply-chain-disruption\/\"\n\t\t\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t<figure class=\"card-post__media\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"684\" height=\"384\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1367106337-684x384.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1367106337-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1367106337-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1367106337-1215x810.jpg 1215w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 250px, (min-width: 30em) 100vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__meta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-06-02T13:33:42-04:00\">June 2, 2026<\/time><\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"reading-time\">9 min read<\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<p class=\"card-post__title h5\">\n\t\t\tWhat is supply chain disruption and how do you manage it?\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Looking to reduce supply chain costs? Explore 10 practical strategies to identify cost drivers, improve efficiency, and protect your margins without disrupting operations.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1905,"featured_media":20114,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_yoast_wpseo_is_cornerstone":"","_yoast_wpseo_meta-robots-noindex":"","_yoast_wpseo_meta-robots-nofollow":"","_yoast_wpseo_opengraph-title":"","_yoast_wpseo_opengraph-description":"","_yoast_wpseo_opengraph-image":"","_yoast_wpseo_opengraph-image-id":"","_yoast_wpseo_twitter-title":"","_yoast_wpseo_twitter-description":"","_yoast_wpseo_twitter-image":"","_yoast_wpseo_twitter-image-id":"","_yoast_wpseo_schema_page_type":"","_yoast_wpseo_schema_article_type":"","_sage_video":false,"_yoast_wpseo_focuskeywords":"","_yoast_wpseo_keywordsynonyms":"","_yoast_wpseo_primary_category":"43","post_featured_image_hide":false,"sage_hide_published_date":false,"sage_hide_read_time":false,"sage_hide_share_buttons":false,"_pwl_sage_podcast_buzzsprout_src":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[43],"tags":[300,36],"business_type":[40,41],"lilypad":[],"context":[],"industry":[94,454],"persona":[],"imagine_tag":[],"coauthors":[622],"class_list":["post-36758","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-money-matters","tag-distribution","tag-supply-chain-management","business_type-small-business","business_type-growing-business","industry-distribution","industry-wholesale-distribution"],"sage_meta":{"region":"en-us","author_name":"Emma Robinson","featured_image":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1349031655.jpg","imagine_tags":[]},"distributor_meta":false,"distributor_terms":false,"distributor_media":false,"distributor_original_site_name":"Sage Advice US","distributor_original_site_url":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog","push-errors":false,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/posts\/36758","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/users\/1905"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=36758"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/posts\/36758\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/media\/20114"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=36758"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=36758"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=36758"},{"taxonomy":"business_type","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/business_type?post=36758"},{"taxonomy":"lilypad","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/lilypad?post=36758"},{"taxonomy":"context","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/context?post=36758"},{"taxonomy":"industry","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/industry?post=36758"},{"taxonomy":"persona","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/persona?post=36758"},{"taxonomy":"imagine_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/imagine_tag?post=36758"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/coauthors?post=36758"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}