Peak Season Trading & How To Prepare

With the holiday season fast approaching, being prepare and equipped to handle the increase in demand on your supply chain is crucial. From the perspective of a freight forwarder planning is everything and expecting the unexpected at this time of year is more critical than ever.

Peak season refers to the period of trading from October to late January. This season is significant to both retailers and wholesalers both importers and exporters alike due to the higher demand of consumers. As an importer we always recommend getting your peak season preparations underway as early as August/September to ensure a smooth season.

Whether you are a B2C or B2B forward planing is crucial, especially in the areas of inventory, logistics and service. This can be achieved by looking at past years performances during this period to forecast potential demand, Other season trends and competitor volumes can assist with narrowing down your forecasts.

During this period there is always limitation in availability of both containers and space on aircraft with higher volumes of freight and passengers moving. With airfreight passengers and luggage always take priority over cargo. With exports it is also the season for increased volumes of perishable and high value cargo such as live seafood where premium rates are being paid to ensure movement.

It is best practice to plan your orders ahead of time, place bookings as early as possible to secure space with carriers both domestically and internationally. Allow for extended delivery timelines when ordering last minute shipments to avoid client timeline expectations.

Peak season differs each and every year and each business is different feel free to contact the team at Image International any time we are always available to assist you to start planing your peak season's logistics needs.