Prepare for Chinese New Year and Its Impact on Imports

Chinese New Year, a vibrant celebration marking the beginning of a new lunar year on January 28th 2025, starting a year of the Earth Snake. It's recognised with a holiday week, and many Chinese manufacturing facilities shut down for up to two weeks or more. To help avoid disruption to supply chains, it's recommended to start planning your shipments now and communicate with a trusted freight forwarding partner who can help book shipments well in advance, and advise on additional considerations.

‍Understanding the Impact

Public Holiday and Factory Closures
The Chinese New Year public holiday is a week-long from January 28th to February 3rd in 2025. Factories and manufacturing businesses in China generally shut down for up to two weeks or more during the Chinese New Year festivities which can lead to production delays and reduced shipping capacity.

Labour Shortages
‍Even after factories reopen, there may be temporary labour shortages as workers return to their hometowns for the holiday. This can impact production efficiency and shipping timelines.

Increased Demand
‍As consumers stock up on goods before the holiday, demand for shipping services can surge, potentially leading to higher rates and longer transit times.

Tips for Importers in Preparation for the Chinese New Year

Plan Ahead
Anticipate disruptions and book your shipments well in advance. This gives you more flexibility to adjust your plans if necessary.

Communicate with Suppliers
Maintain open communication with your suppliers to understand their production schedules and any potential delays.

Consider Alternative Shipping Options
Explore options like air freight or express shipping if time is of the essence. While these may be more expensive, they can help mitigate the impact of delays.

Monitor Shipments Closely
Use tracking tools to stay updated on the status of your shipments. Be prepared to take action if there are any issues.

Factor in Contingency Plans
Develop backup strategies to minimise the impact of delays on your business, such as sourcing alternative suppliers or adjusting your production schedule.

Additional Considerations

Peak Shipping Periods
Be aware of the peak shipping periods during Chinese New Year, as demand is typically highest around this time.

Customs Delays
Increased shipping volume can sometimes lead to longer customs clearance times. Ensure your documentation is in order - to expedite the process.

Insurance
Consider purchasing additional insurance coverage to protect your shipments against potential losses or damages.

By understanding the potential challenges and taking proactive steps, businesses can navigate the complexities of shipping during the Chinese New Year and minimise disruptions to their supply chains. As expert freight forwarders, we can help you plan and navigate shipments in consideration of China’s festive season contact us today to discuss your requirements.