Preparing Your Supply Chain - Chinese New Year 2024 Approaching

Shipping during the Chinese New Year requires careful planning if you deal with manufacturing and or supply out of China. It is a major holiday in China, and many businesses shut down for an extended period. The Chinese New Year of 2024 falls on February 10th (Saturday), and will last to February 24th. It is the Year of Dragon. As an official public holiday, Chinese people can get eight days' off from work, from February 10th to February 17th officially, however this holiday can span longer. Here are some key considerations when reviewing your supply chain and preparing for several weeks of factory close down:

• Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, typically lasts for about 15 days. The exact dates vary each year as they are based on the lunar calendar. Check the specific dates for the upcoming Chinese New Year (noted above for reference in 2024).

• Plan your orders well in advance to ensure that products can be manufactured, packaged, and shipped before the holiday period begins. Factoring in additional time for any potential delays is crucial.

• Many factories in China close for an extended period during Chinese New Year. Communicate with your suppliers to understand their holiday schedule and plan production accordingly.

• Increase your stock levels before the holiday season to cover the period when production is halted. This helps to prevent stockouts and ensures that you can continue fulfilling orders during the holiday.

• Expect disruptions to shipping schedules before, during, and after Chinese New Year. Shipping companies may experience delays due to increased demand and reduced workforce.

• Maintain open communication with your suppliers, logistics partners, and customers. Inform them about potential delays and set realistic expectations for order fulfilment during the holiday period.

• Identify backup suppliers in case your primary supplier experiences delays or shutdowns during the holiday season. This can help mitigate risks and ensure a steady flow of products.

• Be aware that customs offices and other related services may experience delays during the holiday season. Plan for potential delays in customs clearance and factor this into your delivery timelines.

• Keep a close eye on your inventory levels and sales forecasts. Adjust your inventory management system to account for changes in demand and supply during and after the Chinese New Year.

• If you have staff involved in the shipping and logistics process, plan for any potential disruptions due to the holiday season. Ensure that you have adequate staffing to handle order processing and customer inquiries.

By planning ahead and staying informed, you can navigate the challenges associated with shipping during the Chinese New Year and minimise disruptions to your business operations. If you'd like to discuss any of the above with our friendly Sales Team at Image International Freight, please give us a call today +61 2 9773 1378. We'd love to assist you in building your business global logistics strategy and ensure your cargo is delivered with ease and care.