Businesses shipping to or from areas affected by Tropical Cyclone Alfred should brace for longer transit times on logistics networks, according to shipping platform Interparcel.
AusPost, Aramex, UPS, and other major carriers are already telling businesses to anticipate delays, as companies wind up operations for safety reasons.
Retailers, wholesalers, manufacturers, and eCommerce businesses are advised to be prepared for delays, included unanticipated ones.
According to Interparcel, businesses outside the direct cyclone zone could also face bottlenecks, network congestion, and extended hold times at depots.
Interparcel CEO Steve Zammit advised businesses to hold onto shipments and advise customers, if possible.
“Sending parcels during the peak of the disruption can overwhelm already strained depots,” said Zammit. “Instead of pushing shipments into a backlog, consider temporarily holding onto them and clearly communicating expected delays to customers. This will prevent bottlenecks in courier networks and ultimately ensure a better customer experience once services resume.”
Industry experts are recommending businesses monitor carrier alerts closely. Additionally, businesses across the country should set realistic expectations with customers, if they believe their deliveries will be impacted. This might include using website banners, emails, and social media updates to communicate delays.
Ultimately, safety is the top priority.
“First and foremost, businesses should ensure the safety of their teams,” said Zammit. “If you can work from home or pause operations for the day, do so. No shipment is worth risking safety.”
