There is just over two weeks to go until the official start of the Spring Festival (Chinese New Year)
For 2019 the New Year officially begins on February 5th, and celebrations go through until February 19th. It’s celebrated by more than 20% of the world. It’s the most important holiday in China and to Chinese people all over.
For the freight industry however, this time of year can bring about a number of challenges, and it really pays to plan ahead for any potential delays.
- Many workers take holidays and return home to their families for the duration of the holidays which means factories/suppliers close and goods are delayed until their return. Delays often continue past the 19th due to the backlog of orders.
- Our overseas agents also take holidays during this period and close for at least one week from the 5th of February.
- As many shippers push to get orders sent prior to the holiday period, vessels leading up to the New Year are over booked, and again a smiliar situation after the holiday to clear the backlog of cargo and bookings. Please expect delays at this time of year when ordering from China, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Taiwan, Indonesia and Singapore.
- As offices are closed, please ensure any important documentation is completed prior to the holidays if possible.
If you have any questions about how to avoid delays at this time of year, please contact us at sales@mpwsupplychain.com
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