Global sourcing and purchasing is standard practice today, but it adds new complexity to supply chain management in terms of freight, cost management, logistics, compliance, and various risks. Managing these factors upfront means not waiting for problems to develop. - By Shaniqua Thomas

Global procurement decisions go far beyond simple material purchasing decisions. The flow of foreign-sourced components, raw materials or finished goods through a global supply chain must be synchronized between supply chain partners and comply with government export/import requirements at home and internationally. The total cost of ownership also becomes more difficult to identify and manage due to the use of multiple freight carriers and factors influencing the timely delivery of goods and materials, including meeting frequently changing international and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulations.