What types of businesses does LCI work with?
LCI works primarily with small and medium-sized businesses that have relevant transport expenditure, with particular expertise in pharma, medtech and life sciences. Company size matters less than whether transport costs, contracts or purchasing processes offer room for improvement. The scope of each engagement is adapted to your requirements and resources, and businesses in other sectors are equally welcome.
How does an engagement begin?
Every engagement begins with an initial conversation about your transport arrangements, objectives and the data available. On that basis, you receive a concrete proposal covering scope, approach and timing. A Quick Check is often the most sensible starting point; where the task is already clearly defined, work can begin directly with a project.
How much internal involvement is required?
Your team provides the existing documentation, such as freight invoices, rate sheets and contracts, and is available for focused clarification meetings. LCI carries out the analysis, evaluation and preparation of results. The level of internal involvement is agreed before work begins, so that it remains proportionate to your resources and day-to-day operations.
Do we need an internal logistics or procurement department?
No. LCI can work alongside an established team or advise businesses that have no dedicated logistics procurement function. In the latter case, LCI provides the methodology and negotiating practice that would otherwise have to be maintained in-house. Responsibilities and decision-making authority are clearly defined before the engagement begins.
What information is required for a Quick Check?
Freight invoices or cost reports covering a representative period are usually sufficient, together with current rates and contracts and details of shipment profiles, lanes and service requirements. Incomplete data is not an obstacle: the initial conversation establishes which documents are available and how a reliable assessment can be derived from them.
Why engage an external logistics procurement adviser?
An external review provides an independent view of established supplier arrangements and existing contracts. LCI complements your internal knowledge with international procurement and negotiation experience, including an understanding of both the provider and the customer perspective. This is particularly valuable where specialist procurement resources are not available in-house.
Can LCI review our existing transport contracts?
Yes. Existing agreements are reviewed with regard to pricing structure, surcharges, service scope, contract term and other relevant conditions. The review identifies specific areas for renegotiation or contractual adjustment. Ahead of a contract renewal, or where costs have risen noticeably, it provides a sound basis for discussions with the provider.
Can we improve our procurement without changing providers?
Yes. Better logistics procurement does not necessarily mean a change of provider. Renegotiated terms, revised service agreements or more effective management of existing suppliers often achieve the objective. A change is recommended only where it is commercially and operationally justified and the effort of transition is proportionate to the benefit.
What level of savings can we realistically expect?
That depends on transport volumes, existing terms, market conditions and service requirements. LCI therefore does not make blanket savings promises. Opportunities for improvement are analysed on the basis of your data, evaluated and presented transparently, together with the underlying assumptions, so that the realistic effect of each measure is clear before you act.
Is the lowest freight rate always the best option?
Not necessarily. A lower rate offers limited value if it comes with inadequate service, unsuitable contractual terms or quality risks. Alongside price, LCI assesses service quality, reliability, surcharges and compliance with regulatory requirements such as GDP. An offer that does not meet your quality or compliance standards will not be recommended, whatever its price.
Does LCI receive commissions from freight forwarders or carriers?
No. LCI operates independently and receives no commissions or other remuneration from freight forwarders, carriers or other logistics service providers. Advisory work is paid for solely by the client, and in tenders LCI acts exclusively on your behalf. This ensures that every recommendation is guided by your interests alone.
How is confidential information protected?
Freight rates, commercial terms and supplier data are sensitive business information. LCI uses them solely for the agreed engagement and does not disclose them to third parties. Where required, a non-disclosure agreement can be signed before any documents are exchanged. Personal data is processed in accordance with the GDPR.