The COVID-19 outbreak has definitely taken a toll on business operations around the world. The World Health Organization recently declared the virus a pandemic, and several companies are downsizing and slowly their shipment timelines to ensure that goods and products are delivered to customers as safely as possible. This has presented several challenges for companies since many consumers are relying on online purchases to keep their households stocked with essential items. The supply chain for companies has been affected because some companies are experiencing more customer interaction than ever before, which is leading to more sales. More people are shopping online to avoid having to go into public places and increase the spread of coronavirus.
Here are some ways you can make sure your company can ship their products safely during the pandemic.
Inventory Assessments
It’s important to accurately assess how much inventory you need to set aside to send to customers. However, you should be aware that there are import limitations these days that didn’t exist before. Land freight and ocean-based shipping have affected businesses in China in a huge way, but the same is true for many other countries around the world who produce major exports. It’s important to talk with your freight company about production planning and preparing for the future. You should be able to anticipate at least some of your transportation needs so you can continue to keep your customers happy even if you have to add delays to your shipping schedule.
Updates In Ocean and Air Travel
Factories in China are started to operate in full efficiency once again, but businesses and shipping stations in other areas are still severely experiencing the impact of coronavirus; many of these facilities are in Europe and the United States. This means that importers around the world are eager to restock their shelves with products and Trans-Pacific shipping routes will likely be unstable for some time because there is limited capacity. Companies in the US and Europe are also dealing with the issue of empty containers that need to be returned to China as soon as possible so China factories can refill these bins with necessary parts, supplies, and products that European and American businesses need.
It’s also important to note that several airlines have canceled most of their passenger flights, particularly those out of South Korea and Europe. This is mainly because people are traveling less due to their concern for safety. Cargo flights aren’t as restricted, but they are still limited based on capacity and flight schedules. Passenger planes have also been utilized to ship cargo during the pandemic. Many companies were using this method to ship their goods in previous years but this shipping option is becoming more popular during the pandemic.
Companies are continuing the monitor the COVID-19 shipping situation, and there are still some considerations that will help you keep your supply chain moving efficiently. This will help you avoid some challenges associated with shipping schedules and travel restrictions.
How to Plan Ahead
There are a few factors to think about when your company is planning to ship inventory and stabilize production. You should speak with a supply chain expert to ensure your business is prepared to be proactive during this uncertain time. Talk to your vendors about what production will look like in the coming months. You should also have a discussion with your team about what will happen in the future if there is still a shortage of employees in the factories that produce your inventory. Will you have to discontinue certain projects? Will you put customers on the waiting list? You should know what your plan is so you can implement it if necessary.
Alternate Sourcing Methods
China’s current backlog should let business owners all over the world know how important it is to have a diversified supply chain. This includes sourcing locations, carriers, and various modes of transportation. When production is delayed in any way, it can be challenging to keep up with the workload that comes from customer orders. It may not always be easy to find more options for sourcing. This is why a global supply chain specialist should be part of your team to let you know which shipping and sourcing options are viable for your company.
