Back-to-school

Back-to-school season; US July-August, Europe August-September.

Seasonal events are often the single largest external stressor on supply chains — bigger than short-term rate movements. Those who plan for them win; those who ignore them fight shortages, returns and unhappy customers.

Apparel, shoes, stationery, electronics and furniture for colleges experience peaks.

Early capacity booking, alternative routing and active stakeholder management are the keys to surviving peak events. Run forecast reviews with carriers, lock rates early and, where needed, use premium services to secure shipping windows.

Plan inventory, bookings and production schedules 8-12 weeks in advance. Communicate the seasonal timeline early to suppliers, customers and carriers. Document the seasonal curve as an annual calendar and tie S&OP directly to transport and customs capacity.