Which of the following best defines total landed costs?

Total landed costs refer to the comprehensive calculation of all expenses incurred from the production to the delivery of goods at a specific location. This includes not only the purchase price of the product but also additional expenses like shipping, customs duties, insurance, handling fees, and any other costs related to the procurement process until the items reach their final destination.

Choosing this definition emphasizes the importance of considering every associated cost in the supply chain management process while deciding on procurement, ensuring that companies make well-informed financial decisions. This approach aligns with practices aimed at optimizing sourcing strategies by providing a true picture of the cost implications rather than just focusing on the initial purchase price or isolated expenses.

Other options, while touching upon aspects of procurement costs, do not encompass the full range of expenditures that make up total landed costs. For instance, just looking at the initial cost of a product, shipping costs alone, or excluding taxes misses various significant components that influence the overall cost and potential profitability for businesses.