Picture it.
Instead of toys wrapped under the tree with care. Your family wakes up on Christmas morning to find a pile of IOUs in their stockings — it’s 2021’s version of coal.
The international president of UPS, Scott Price, half joked to “order your Christmas presents now, because otherwise on Christmas day, there may just be a picture of something that’s not coming until February or March.”
It’s the harsh reality most families will face this season. Thanks to the supply chain disaster that’s only getting worse…
The nation’s ports are clogged… big time. Reports saying it took 5 weeks for cargo ships to get unloaded. The major ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach are experiencing a record influx.
How are big retailers responding?
Both Costco and Target are chartering their own cargo ships to beat delays.
And that would work, too. If only the trucking industry wasn’t overworked and understaffed.
The CEO of MGA Entertainment (one of the world’s largest toymakers), Isaac Larian, said, “Everything that can go wrong is going wrong at the same time.”
What are these delays affecting?
Simply put, everything. Hot-ticket gifting items like computers, phones and tablets. And then everyday items like tennis balls, plastic cups… even pickles.
Nike just said they won’t have enough sneakers to sell for the holidays this year.
The American Christmas Tree Association predicted holiday shortages… and price hikes to be able to keep up with rising shipping costs. So if you’re thinking about snagging an artificial Douglas Fir this year — expect to pay up to 30% more than last season.
What can YOU do?
Buy smart, and buy now.
Seek companies with that Made-in-America seal.
Don’t wait for those Black Friday deals. Chances are your packages won’t make it in time for the holidays. And with rising shipping and labor costs, you’re not going to get the “sweet deal” you’re looking for.
And stock up on ready-to-ship items. If you need it, then it’s a good idea to get one for everyone you love this Christmas.
Especially if it’s something that could protect your family against wild weather. And can alert them before a freak storm hits.
Pssst. This potentially-lifesaving device is in stock and available to ship — so there’s at least a few presents under the tree!
