6 common causes of shipping delays and how to mitigate them

Shipping delays can disrupt supply chains, increase costs, and create frustration for businesses and consumers alike. While some delays are inevitable, understanding their root causes can help you mitigate their impact.

Let's explore six of the most common causes of shipping delays and tips that help mitigate these issues.

1. Port congestion

Sea freight is responsible for transporting more than 90% of global goods, making efficient port operations crucial. Large container ships can carry as many as 24,000 containers in a single voyage, but when ports lack sufficient storage space, equipment, or personnel to process them efficiently, bottlenecks occur. This congestion leads to increased dwell times and shipping backlogs, delaying the movement of goods.

Tips to mitigate port congestion

• Use alternate ports – Some smaller or less congested ports may offer quicker processing times.
• Plan for peak seasons – Importers should anticipate higher volumes during peak shipping seasons (e.g., holiday shopping and book shipments early.
• Consider air freight – It's more expensive, but air freight can be a viable alternative for urgent shipments.

2. Labour shortages

Despite advances in automation, human workers remain essential in handling, transporting, and processing goods. Labour shortages—whether due to strikes, industrial disputes, or demographic shifts—can significantly impact supply chains. A persistent shortage of truck drivers, for instance, has caused delays in many regions, especially as a large segment of drivers nears retirement.

Tips to mitigate labour shortages

• Diversify transportation options – Rail and intermodal transport can supplement trucking shortages.
• Engage with reliable carriers – Work with logistics providers that have a strong workforce and contingency plans.

3. Extreme weather events

From hurricanes and typhoons to snowstorms and wildfires, extreme weather can disrupt transportation across all modes. Rising global temperatures are likely to intensify these weather-related disruptions in the future.

Tips to mitigate weather-related delays

• Monitor weather forecasts – Proactive monitoring helps businesses reroute shipments ahead of storms.
• Diversify sourcing – Having multiple suppliers in different regions can reduce reliance on a single shipping route.
• Consider warehousing closer to demand – Holding inventory in multiple locations reduces dependency on just-in-time shipments.

4. Supply chain disruptions

Supply chain disruptions, such as shortages of raw materials, production slowdowns, or logistical bottlenecks, can delay shipments. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted how vulnerabilities in supply chains can create widespread delays.

Tips to mitigate supply chain delays

• Adopt supply chain visibility tools – Real-time tracking helps businesses anticipate and react to disruptions.
• Use multiple suppliers – Sourcing from multiple vendors reduces the risk of a single-point failure.
• Increase safety stock levels – Holding some additional inventory can help to cushion against supply chain volatility.

5. Geopolitical disruptions

International trade relies on stable and predictable transportation routes. Geopolitical events such as wars, trade disputes, and sanctions can force rerouting or even block trade entirely. For example, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and attacks on shipping in the Red Sea have created challenges for global supply chains.

Tips to mitigate geopolitical disruptions

• Stay informed on global events – Keeping up with geopolitical developments helps businesses anticipate disruptions.
• Consider alternative trade routes – Exploring new routes can prevent reliance on potentially unstable regions.
• Diversify supply chain partners – Expanding into different markets reduces dependency on politically volatile regions.

6. Human error and accidents

Mistakes in documentation, customs clearance, or logistics coordination can lead to delays. For example, incorrect HS codes, missing import permits, or improperly filed paperwork can cause goods to be held at customs. Additionally, accidents such as truck collisions or vessel groundings can have far-reaching consequences.

Tips to mitigate human error

• Leverage digital tools – Automated customs processing and electronic documentation reduce errors.
• Train and prepare employees – Proper training for logistics teams ensures compliance with customs regulations.
• Work with experienced customs brokers – Brokers can help navigate regulatory complexities and prevent clearance issues.

Minimize the impact of shipping delays

Businesses can minimize the impact of shipping delays with strategic planning and a proactive approach to logistics management. Taking steps such as diversifying transportation options and staying informed about shipping risks can greatly reduce disruptions.

Freight forwarding. It’s what we do.