Logistics Glossary

Get to know the vital terms of Logistics and Supply Chain Management.

Landed Cost

What is Landed Cost in Logistics?

The landed cost is the total cost of importing goods from the initial purchase order to the final delivery. In addition to the purchase price of the commodity itself, landed cost computes all other expenses incurred due to transportation as well as clearances when such goods arrive at a location that a buyer has particularly earmarked. The measure of landed cost is beneficial to companies for an accurate estimation of the profit as well as pricing considerations of an imported article.

Elements of Landed Cost

Product Cost

This is the direct purchase price of the product from the supplier. While it’s the baseline cost, it’s only a fraction of the total landed cost.

Freight and Shipping Charges

These cover the transportation costs from the point of origin to the final destination. Freight charges vary based on factors like distance, mode of transport (air, sea, or land), and weight or size of the shipment.

Insurance

Insurance is one of the most important landed cost components that cover possible loss or damage in transit. It is a very minimal but important component that guarantees risk management in the logistics process.

Custom duties and taxes

Customs duties, tariffs, and taxes are collected by customs in the importing country. The cost may significantly be affected if the imported goods are subjected to a high tariff or special trade agreement.

Handling and clearance fees

These include customs brokers, port handling, and any other logistical services that would be required to get the goods through customs and on to the final destination.

Why is the Landed Cost Calculation Important?

Landed cost determination enables a business to be aware of the actual price of a product. This is useful for pricing and profitability determination. Calculating this cost accurately gives companies the ability to make smarter decisions about sourcing, pricing, and margin management while optimizing their supply chains.

Conclusion

Landed Cost is an important measurement for businesses that trade with the rest of the world. All costs associated with landing enable companies to measure the total cost of imports, so it keeps them competitive, accurate pricing, and logistics management.

L