Don’t be Left Behind this Holiday Season: Know What to Expect and How to Prepare

Holiday shopping is already underway with companies gearing up for record high online sales for the 2020 Holiday Season. COVID-19 has accelerated the growth of eCommerce and increased demand for Home Delivery goods. The uniqueness of the current landscape has resulted in both challenges and opportunities for businesses and logistics worldwide and the ability to adapt to the shifting market constraints continues to be key. 

The Opportunities: 
2020 Capacity Concerns and OpportunitiesAs consumers continue to shop from the safety of their homes to avoid crowded shopping malls and stores this Holiday Season, working with a reliable, time-sensitive shipping and logistics organization like BTX Global Logistics is more critical than ever. After all, no one wants to be left out in the cold without their Holiday gifts or essential supplies. 

What to Expect and How to Prepare:

Shipping Capacity Constraints for Ground, Ocean and International Air Transportation
An increase in eCommerce demands across the U.S. due to Covid-19 has resulted in shipping capacity constraints on Land, Ocean and International Air. Currently, Commercial Domestic Air is not seeing capacity issues. However, some capacity constraints are expected in Cargo Air from Thanksgiving through Christmas.
Takeaway: Be prepared for capacity strains to last until at least January 2021. Communicate with your customers proactively and allow for extra time for shipping and delivery.

Increase in Container Drayage and Ground Transportation 
Capacity strains are causing an increase in truckload prices for FTL, LTL and expedited ground shipping services.
Takeaway: Budget for these rate increases and adjust your prices accordingly. Be prepared for “Peak Season” accessorial fees by talking to your BTX representative for additional information on what to expect.

Expect and Plan for Delays Due to Severe/Inclement Weather Conditions
This year, the country has experienced wildfires, floods and hurricanes that have impacted transportation conditions. As Winter approaches, snowstorms and icy conditions will also impact transportation – especially on the ground. 
Takeaway: Give yourself ample time for shipping and delivery. If you don’t have the extra time, be prepared for the additional costs associated with “Guarantee Fees." Remember to adjust your budget and prices accordingly. Plan ahead by staying up-to-date with weather conditions, see resources here.

With only 26 shopping days between Thanksgiving and Christmas this year, time is of the essence. BTX is actively working with our staff and service providers to minimize delays and negotiate the best rates for you during this Holiday Season.

CONTACT USBTX Global Logistics is a full-service shipping and logistics organization known for providing creative and flexible solutions to its customers. BTX's services include expedited shippingair freightAOG/aerospace, ground freightsea freightwhite glove, tradeshow, ecommerce, fulfillmentdistribution and much more.  

Topics: Supply Chain, Blog, Air Freight, COVID-19, eCommerce, OceanFreight