Managing Supply Chain Disruptions During Chinese New Year: Key Considerations for International Clients

As the Chinese New Year approaches, it’s crucial for international businesses to understand how this holiday will impact logistics and production timelines in China. The Chinese New Year, the most important cultural event in the country, can lead to significant delays in both transportation and manufacturing, and it’s important to plan ahead to ensure smooth operations during this period.

Logistics and Transport Disruptions: January 17-19

From January 17 to 19, long-distance cargo transport within China will begin to slow down as workers start heading home for the holiday. During this period, the volume of goods being shipped will decrease, and transport companies will gradually halt operations. Clients should take note that any urgent shipments planned for this period may face delays.

Factory Shutdowns: January 18 – February 7

Glass container manufacturers, like many other industries, will observe a break from production starting January 18 through February 7. This shutdown is a standard practice during Chinese New Year. It's important to note that holiday periods are typically not counted within regular working days, meaning production timelines need to account for this extended break.

Adjusting Shipment and Production Timelines

Given these circumstances, businesses should adjust their timelines to account for the additional lead time. For any orders that require fulfillment around the holiday period, clients should place them well in advance, ideally before mid-January. Post-holiday, there may be a slight increase in international shipping costs, due to the backlog of shipments and the resumption of transportation services.

Navigating Post-Holiday Challenges

Once the holiday period concludes, there may be some volatility in international shipping costs and availability. Logistics companies will work to clear the backlog of orders, which can sometimes result in increased freight rates or slightly longer delivery times. It’s also wise to keep in mind that customs processing and port efficiency can be slower as workers return to their stations.

Proactive Planning is Key

To mitigate the impact of Chinese New Year disruptions, it's essential to plan well in advance. Early communication with your suppliers and logistics partners can help ensure that your supply chain runs as smoothly as possible. Consider factoring in the holiday downtime when placing orders or scheduling shipments, and keep a buffer for any unforeseen delays.