Lunar New Year (also known as Chinese New Year) is a vibrant time of celebration but also a critical period for businesses managing logistics in China, as well as other countries in East and Southeast Asia. The holiday's impact on supply chains requires careful planning to ensure timely deliveries and uninterrupted operations. This guide provides key insights for managing logistics in 2025 across sea, air, and land transportation.
How will Lunar New Year (or Chinese New Year) affect Sea Freight?
Peak Season Demand: The weeks leading up to Lunar New Year see a surge in exports as businesses rush to ship orders before the holiday closure. Book your Sea Freight shipments early to secure space and avoid delays.
Port Congestion: Major Chinese ports like Shanghai, Ningbo, and Shenzhen often face congestion during this period. Consider alternative ports to minimise delays.
Post-Holiday Recovery: Expect slow recovery as workers return to their posts. Allow extra time for shipments to resume after the holiday.
Air Freight at Lunar New Year (or Chinese New Year): Prepare for tight capacity
High Cargo Volume: Air Freight experiences increased demand as companies opt for faster delivery before Lunar New Year. Reserve space well in advance.
Cost Fluctuations: Freight rates typically rise during this period. Budget accordingly to accommodate potential price spikes.
Holiday Shutdowns: Many airports scale back operations during the holiday week. Confirm schedules with your logistics provider.
Land Transport at Lunar New Year (or Chinese New Year): Ensuring smooth delivery
Driver Shortages: A significant number of truck drivers return to their hometowns for Lunar New Year, leading to limited availability. Arrange Land Transport early to secure capacity.
Customs Clearance: Plan for potential delays in customs clearance due to reduced staffing. Submit documentation early to avoid holdups.
Warehouse Operations: Many warehouses close or operate on reduced hours. Coordinate with your warehousing partners for continuity.
Final tips for smooth shipping during Lunar New Year
- Communicate with Partners: Stay in close contact with logistics providers, suppliers, and customers to keep everyone informed of timelines and changes.
- Monitor Updates: Stay aware of official holiday dates and regional variations that might impact operations.
