The past two years have posed serious challenges to logistics operations around the world. Cross-border transport of products has been limited and there are numerous delays that affected the delivery of products and cargo which resulted in congestion and problems with the quality of goods.
Now that we have entered a new year, there are still supply chain challenges in the Philippines that must be looked into to anticipate potential problems and stabilize operations.
A Quick Look at the Supply Chain Challenges in the Philippines
Infrastructure
Traveling from one part of the Philippines to another is quite complex. Infrastructural challenges remain in the country. As an archipelago, the transport of goods from one region to another is prolonged. In addition to that are the congested streets that contribute to delivery delays.
These factors get in the way of the delivery of goods. They could cause delays and damages, especially when perishable goods or fragile products are involved.
Manual Labor
In the Philippines, manual labor is widely utilized. Although technology is now a part of the processes of most companies, there are still specific activities that are completed through manual labor. While Filipinos are usually reliable in performing tasks, manual work could get in the way of speed and efficiency. It is time-consuming and may lead to costly errors and delays.
Logistics Cost
Different factors contribute to the increase in logistics costs. When there is no proper management in the movement of goods for delivery, additional expenses are incurred. While this affects the quality of customer service, an increase in logistics costs also plays a factor in the decrease in profit.
Product Returns
There are downsides to the return policy followed in the country that affects the supply chain. While this policy intends to protect the consumers, product returns could cause losses and damages to goods while being transported. This is also a factor in why warehouse congestion happens. Aside from storage problems, returned products may also worsen products available in the warehouse.]
Solutions to Common Supply Chain Challenges in the Philippines
- Observe operational transparency.
Keep your processes and workflows transparent. This will allow easy monitoring of processes and workflows.
- Avoid unnecessary costs.
The overall cost of your operations should be kept low. Keep track of your budget and stick to it as much as possible.
- Simplify the return policy.
A simple return policy must be maintained. While customer satisfaction is a priority, the return process should be easy enough to prevent damages, loss, and warehouse congestion.
- Improve your e-commerce website.
Your website should be optimized to help ensure fast and seamless transactions. Information and inventory should be up-to-date. Links to contact details, as well as important features such as delivery tracking must be functional.
- Work with a logistics company.
Supply chain challenges may be too much for a company to handle. With the help of a logistics company in the Philippines, seamless operations may be established. You can get the help you need for inventory, warehouse management, order fulfillment, and shipping. You can have peace of mind knowing that common problems will be mitigated.
ALSO READ: WHY LOGISTICS PLANNING IS CRUCIAL FOR YOUR ECOMMERCE BUSINESS
There have been disruptions in the logistics process, especially during the pandemic which contributed to supply chain challenges in the Philippines–and even other countries. Congestion and delays are among the common problems encountered. As the country goes through post-pandemic transitioning, it is important to identify the challenges and know the logistics solutions that can help overcome them.
Want to work with a logistics company in the Philippines that can help optimize your supply chain processes? Contact Worklink. We have been helping domestic industries since 1999 by providing efficient, effective, and reliable courier, forwarding, trucking and logistics services.