UPS management and UPS Teamsters are in a labor dispute. Without preparation and action, a potential UPS strike can create significant disruptions in our ability as a distributor (and our customers as resellers) to deliver products, affecting businesses that rely on our reliable shipping services. To ensure that our shipments continue smoothly even in the face of uncertainty, it is crucial to have a solid plan in place. In this blog post, we will share official and media news updates on the subject, explore practical strategies to safeguard your shipments in the event of a possible UPS strike, helping you navigate through the uncertainty and maintain business continuity.
Diversify Shipping Options:
One of the most effective ways to mitigate the impact of a UPS strike is to diversify shipping options. ARLINGTON has relationships with alternative carriers such as FEDEX in addition to other various freight companies that can handle our shipments in case of a strike. ARLINGTON maintains valuable relationships with multiple providers and currently have backup plans in place to ensure uninterrupted service. ARLINGTON is taking extra measures to insure all packages will be shipped if an agreement is not made. In the short-term, ARLINGTON may transition some shipments to the carriers in advances of potential strike.
Communicate with Customers:
During a UPS strike, communication becomes crucial (thus, this blog post.) From the same perspective, we recommend resellers keep your customers (and your suppliers) informed about the potential disruptions and the steps you are taking to mitigate the impact. Our account executives are receiving updates on the UPS negotiations and will be sharing pertinent updates with our customers. We suggest, you proactively update your clients that rely on shipped products and solutions about alternative shipping arrangements or potential delays. Effective communication will help manage expectations and maintain trust during uncertain times.
Review and Adjust Inventory Levels:
Evaluate your inventory levels and identify critical items that are in high demand or have longer lead times. Consider stocking up on these items before a strike occurs. By having sufficient stock on hand, you can fulfill customer orders even if shipments are delayed or disrupted.
Develop Contingency Plans:
Develop contingency plans to address different scenarios that may arise during a UPS strike. Anticipate potential bottlenecks or challenges and have strategies in place to overcome them. In short, be prepared for the worse as we hope for the best in these ongoing negotiations.
While a potential UPS strike may create uncertainty in distribution, proper preparation and proactive measures can help safeguard our shipments and maintain business continuity. Diversifying our shipping options, effective communication, reviewing inventory levels, and developing contingency plans are essential steps to navigate through the uncertainty and ensure minimal disruption to our daily operations. By being prepared and adaptable, we can successfully overcome challenges and continue to serve our customers during uncertain times.
Deadline for an agreement is end of July or a strike will happen. A UPS strike will severely impact package delivery in the US. We hope, and many at UPS, feel a strike can be avoided this year. Nonetheless, we at ARLINGTON remain vigilant in preparation for a disruption in these services.
NEWS SOURCES & UPDATES:
OFFICIAL:
UPS Newsroom: Updates
UPS Teamsters United: News Updates
MEDIA:
July 5, 2023 USA Today: Will UPS workers strike? Teamsters union, company end talks without a new contract.
