# The 14-Point Margin Drift Checklist for SMB Finance Teams

> Self-scoring diagnostic for controllers, AP managers, and CFOs

Source: https://valuexpa.com/publication/margin-drift-checklist
Publisher: ValueXPA (https://valuexpa.com)

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## Executive summary

A one-page self-scoring diagnostic that identifies whether your AP process has the structural gaps that allow service vendor spend leakage. Answer 14 yes/no questions about your freight, contract labour, maintenance, and professional services AP controls. Score 6 or above indicates recoverable spend is likely present.

## Key findings

Scoring: 0–5 = controlled, 6–9 = leakage likely, 10–14 = diagnostic recommended
Covers: freight billing controls, contract labour rate verification, maintenance NTE tracking, professional services scope management, volume rebate capture, and ERP contract-rate validation gaps

## Who this is for

Controllers, AP managers, and CFOs at $10M–$100M SMB manufacturers, distributors, and services businesses

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ValueXPA runs a fixed-scope Margin Drift Diagnostic that validates every service vendor invoice against contract terms, for $100M+ US industrial manufacturers and distributors. Two to four weeks. The client retains 100% of recoveries. https://valuexpa.com/contact-us