You’re Not Alone: Managing and Avoiding Supply Chain Disruptions
Do you feel like you’re the only one affected by supply chain disruptions? Trust us. You’re not alone. Supply chain disruptions will always be a popular topic of conversation, and unfortunately, sometimes, these disruptions are out of our control. Regardless of weather-related or human error, disruptions are expensive, frustrating, and stressful. Rather than falling victim to production or shipping delays, how does your business identify, address, and prevent these supply chain risks? What types of disruptions can be avoided? What preventative actions does your business have to mitigate delays?
October 26, 2021
Common Delays & Disruptions
Identifying possible situations before they occur is an excellent way for businesses to intercept potential disruptions. While disruptions aren’t 100% predictable, navigating through a delay is much easier when you’re prepared versus being reactive. Your customers will appreciate a sense of security knowing you’re ready for whatever disruptions you may encounter.
So what exactly should you prepare for? While not all of these disruptions may directly affect your industry, it’s always best for your team to be prepared. Here is a list of potential disruptions that our HBI team has planned for:
- Inclement Weather
- Impartial Shipments or Incorrect Order Quantities
- Incorrect Documents or Documentation Issues
- Inability to correctly assemble / Missing assembly components
- Freight Forwarding Delays or Complications
- Peak Season Surges
- Traffic
- Power Outages
- Human Error
- Availability of Raw Materials
- Mechanical Errors
- Pandemics
- Cyber Attacks
- Global Political Instability
- Expensive Freight Costs
Measuring the Impact of a Delay
The Impact of Human Error
Disruptions are inconvenient and inevitable, but they can certainly be managed. Investing time into preventive planning will strengthen your customer’s trust and retention. Undoubtedly, humans make mistakes, and whether it’s incorrect labeling, inaccurate order quantities, or inadequate shipping documents, errors need to be quickly identified and communicated to your company and your customer. Assuming responsibility isn’t easy, but taking ownership and accepting the mistake as your own leads to genuineness and good character. Mistakes happen, but ultimately it’s how you handle the error that either builds your relationship and retains your customer or initiates their search for a new partner.
The Impact of Weather & Traffic
Uniquely, weather is unavoidable for anyone. In fact, unlike human error, which we can prevent, weather is notably challenging because “it is, what it is,” and we must do our best to predict, manage, and make decisions based on the forecast. In the past, suppliers have been forced to slow down or cease production due to earthquakes and tsunamis, while other areas encounter hurricanes, blizzards, and severe fog. Seasonal weather patterns can be relatively predictable. Taking time to organize your projects to adhere to these seasonal weather risks may mean avoiding potential supply chain delays for you and your customer and seeking alternate routes. It’s better to have route variations that help to avoid congested areas or inclement weather than sit and wait for things to ‘clear up.’
The Impact of Proper Documentation
Incorrect documentation? Container sitting idle at the port waiting for space? Many businesses find that working with international suppliers has many advantages; however, one of the most challenging disruptions and delays is ensuring proper documentation for your product. Shipping rules and regulations vary across countries. Understanding adequate documentation is crucial to get your product on the water or in the air. Partnering with a trusted sourcing agency, such as HB International, will help alleviate the stress of freight forwarding and allow your business to focus on other items of high importance. Our team works with freight forwarders and suppliers to ensure space is secured, products are shipped, and timelines are communicated to you, our customer.
Managing Delays & Disruptions: We’re Here For You
The best way to handle any disruption or delay is by communicating. It doesn’t always go our way, but HB International’s team works closely with our customers and suppliers to ensure transparency and efficiency. We work to provide accurate and frequent project timelines, from design and product development, production, and product inspections to shipping and freight logistics.
There’s no need for lengthy explanations and excuses – HB International’s team is prepared and capable of handling all of your project inquiries and supply chain demands.
