The holiday season is one of the most demanding periods for global logistics. As consumer demand surges, supply chains across multiple sectors – from retail to food imports – come under significant pressure. Transport networks operate at full capacity, labour shortages become more visible and border authorities face increased workloads. For shippers, this combination creates the perfect environment for delays, congestion and costly disruptions.
To maintain performance, companies must plan early, build strong partnerships and adopt flexible logistics strategies. Managing holiday-season pressure is no longer just about getting goods delivered; it is about keeping entire supply chains resilient, compliant and operational during the busiest time of the year.
Why the holiday season creates unique pressure
Seasonal peaks are predictable, yet they remain a challenge due to the sheer volume of goods moving through ports, airports and fulfilmentcentres. Retailers, food distributors, and manufacturers all rely on tight delivery windows to prepare for Christmas and end-of-year sales. Any delay (even a short one) can reduce sales, disrupt production or lead to stock shortages.
The main drivers of seasonal pressure include increased demand, limited transport capacity, reduced staffing, higher scrutiny at borders and, in some regions, adverse winter weather conditions.
Congestion at ports and airports
One of the biggest challenges during the holiday season is congestion. Ports and airports experience a significant surge in incoming and outgoing shipments, which can slow down the entire logistics chain. Longer waiting times for berths, limited container availability and bottlenecks in customs clearance all contribute to delays.
Air cargo demand also peaks, particularly for high-value or time-critical shipments. With capacity stretched, rates rise and space becomes harder to secure. Businesses that fail to plan risk having their cargo rolled to later flights or sailings.
Labour shortages and operational slowdowns
As the holiday season approaches, staffing becomes an issue across the entire transport network. Warehouses, distribution centres, carriers and even customs authorities often operate with reduced teams due to seasonal leave and increased workload.
Reduced staff availability can slow down:
- Cargo handling and loading
- Inspections and controls
- Documentation processing
- Last-mile deliveries
These slowdowns create ripple effects that can delay shipments far beyond their original timelines.
Increased customs controls
Holiday peaks coincide with heightened regulatory activity. Authorities often step up inspections to prevent non-compliant goods entering the market, especially in categories such as food, alcohol, toys, electronics and cosmetics. For perishable goods, this can be particularly challenging. Additional checks increase the risk of temperature deviations or reduced shelf life.
Compliance issues that might cause small delays earlier in the year can result in major disruptions during the holiday season. Accurate documentation and strong customs expertise are key to avoiding setbacks.
Weather-related disruptions
Winter weather conditions bring another layer of unpredictability. Snow, storms, ice and reduced visibility can impact all transport modes. Flights may be cancelled, ports temporarily closed and road transport slowed or rerouted. For time-sensitive shipments, this can quickly disrupt supply chain performance.
How businesses can keep supply chains moving
Successfully navigating the holiday season requires a proactive and strategic approach. Companies that prepare early and collaborate closely with logistics partners have a far greater chance of avoiding disruption. Key strategies include:
1. Early planning and forecasting
Securing transport capacity early is essential during peak season. Forwarders and shippers that reserve space weeks, or even months ahead reduce the risk of rolled cargo or premium surcharges.
2. Strong partnerships with logistics experts
Experienced freight forwarders can anticipate seasonal challenges, advise on routing alternatives and manage compliance efficiently. Their ability to coordinate between carriers, terminals and authorities helps reduce delays.
3. Accurate and compliant documentation
With increased border controls, documentation must be correct the first time. Digitalisation and automated data systems help eliminate errors and speed up customs processes.
4. Visibility and real-time monitoring
Tracking tools allow businesses to respond quickly to delays, reroute shipments or update customers proactively.
5. Flexible logistics planning
Using alternative ports, different transport modes or adjusted delivery schedules can keep goods moving even when one part of the chain becomes congested.
How Berencourt supports reliable holiday-season logistics
At Berencourt, we help our clients stay ahead of seasonal pressures by combining strong planning, compliance expertise, and real-time visibility tools. Whether managing food imports, coordinating multimodal shipments or navigating complex customs requirements, we ensure your goods continue to move. Even during the busiest time of the year!
Our proactive approach minimises delays, prevents compliance issues and keeps your supply chain resilient throughout the holiday period.
Need reliable support to keep your supply chain running smoothly during peak season?
Contact our team. Berencourt is your partner for compliant, visible, and uninterrupted logistics.
