On a typical day, ordering from the local coffee shop feels like a gamble. A caramel macchiato? Sorry, they’re out of caramel. An iced decaf Americano with an over-the-top amount of Splenda? Only stevia available. Strawberries and cream frappes for the kids? They don’t have any cold cups, and the pink drink is off the menu due to a shortage of strawberries.
I get it, these are trivial complaints in the grand scheme of things. But still, what’s going on? The answer lies in shipping delays and shortages.
Yes, we can thank the ongoing repercussions of the pandemic for this mess. While 2020 was all about surviving COVID, 2021 feels like the year we’re blaming it for everything. Initially, demand plummeted, with only toilet paper and sanitizers flying off the shelves. But as stimulus checks rolled out and people faced prolonged isolation, shopping surged. Retailers, however, were caught off guard.
What’s Causing the Delays?
At first, shipping slowed because the demand simply wasn’t there—except for essential items. But when consumers decided to spend their time at home shopping, the demand skyrocketed. The issue of getting products to consumers became a challenge. It wasn’t just about a lack of delivery drivers, although that was a factor too.
With goods sitting idle and ships anchored, it took time to get operations back on track. Major traffic delays ensued as ships jostled for position. Remember the Ever Given incident in the Suez Canal earlier this year? According to Jordan Roberts from the International Longshore and Warehouse Union, the pandemic has only amplified existing supply chain issues.
In essence, there aren’t enough shipping containers, and those that are available aren’t moving swiftly enough.
The Financial Fallout
The most frustrating part isn’t just the wait for your new couch or the halted home renovations; it’s the financial impact. Shipping costs have soared, and these added expenses find their way into retail prices. It’s simple supply and demand: We crave our coffee fix from local shops, but the longer shipping times mean higher costs. In fact, as CNBC reported, we saw the most significant price increases since 2008 just a few months ago.
For many, coffee is the least of their concerns. My friend Alex and her partner only managed half of their home renovations this summer due to lumber shortages and price hikes. My cousin finally got the furniture she ordered back in October 2020. Everyone has a tale of frustration, and unfortunately, we’re not even in the peak shipping season.
August marks the beginning of the shipping rush, as back-to-school shopping segues into holiday preparations. Before we know it, the whirlwind of September through December will be upon us.
Embracing Patience
I know waiting can be tough. Whether it’s for furniture, home improvements, or your daily caffeine, it’s easy to feel frustrated. But let’s not take our impatience out on baristas or store staff. They aren’t the ones responsible for the supply chain issues—after all, coffee may have magical properties, but it can’t conjure items from thin air.
Ultimately, while it’s annoying to wait longer for things we desire, it’s not the end of the world. The past year has shown us that patience, community, and understanding can make a significant difference. So keep calm and enjoy your caffeine, no matter where you get it from.
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Summary
In summary, the shipping industry is grappling with significant disruptions caused by the pandemic, leading to delays and increased costs for consumers. As demand surged post-lockdown, supply chain issues became apparent, affecting everything from coffee supplies to furniture deliveries. While the frustrations of waiting are valid, it’s essential to remain patient and understanding during these challenging times.
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