Table of contentsClick link to navigate to the desired location
This content has been automatically translated from Ukrainian.
During periods of strain on global supply chains, any mistake in logistics can cost a business not only money but also reputation. This is especially true for shipments from China — a country that is a primary source of goods for Ukrainian retailers, distributors, marketplaces, and private importers.How can we ensure that shipping cargo from China under martial law, seasonal peaks, and rising logistics costs does not become a problem?
Why has instability become the new norm?
Since the beginning of the full-scale war, logistics routes to Ukraine have undergone significant changes. Most traditional routes through the Russian Federation or Belarus have become unavailable, and the load on alternative corridors (such as through Poland, Romania, or the Balkans) has significantly increased. All of this:
- increases travel time;
- complicates customs clearance;
- increases the likelihood of force majeure.
During peak seasons — before holidays, Black Friday, or the Chinese New Year — even a slight delay can throw companies off schedule. Therefore, proactive planning has become critically important.
Main risks during peak shipments
1. Warehouse overload.
Warehouses in China, Poland, or transit countries are unable to cope with the volumes; packages are consolidated more slowly or shipped with delays.
2. Lack of available space in transport.
Large cargoes that are pre-booked by regular customers are prioritized on sea and air routes. Smaller shipments often wait longer.
3. Document errors due to haste.
During loading, staff may incorrectly complete documents or labeling. This leads to delays at customs or re-sorting.
4. Changes in rates and delivery conditions.
During seasonal periods, some companies adjust rates or reduce available transportation options (for example, temporarily suspending the economy segment).
How to avoid disruptions: practical steps
To prevent supply disruptions during peak periods, it is advisable to act proactively. First of all — plan orders at least 2-3 weeks in advance of the expected load. This allows the entire logistics cycle to proceed without force majeure: from procurement at the platform to packaging, consolidation, customs clearance, and delivery to Ukraine.
It is equally important to work with operators who have a fixed shipping schedule. For example, Meest China forms batches several times a week, which allows for more accurate arrival date predictions, prompt delivery launches, and independence from unstable flights.
Special attention should be paid to documentation and labeling. Before shipping, it is necessary to check that all fields are correctly filled out, that a unique ID is indicated, and that the data from the personal account matches what is printed on the box. Even a small error in the address or duplication of tracking codes can cause delays at the warehouse or incorrect routing.
And finally — do not forget to consider national holidays in the sender's country. The Chinese New Year, which falls in January-February, is particularly critical. During this period, a large number of factories, sellers, and logistics companies stop working for 10-14 days, leading to delays even for orders that were placed in advance.
This post doesn't have any additions from the author yet.
