由 caicai8478 Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on the global supply chain, and international logistics fluctuations have intensified, bringing significant challenges to the maternal and infant product export industry. This article analyzes the main manifestations of international logistics fluctuations after the pandemic and their impact on maternal and infant exports, and proposes corresponding response strategies to help companies optimize supply chain management, reduce operational risks, and seize market opportunities in the post-epidemic era.
- Main manifestations of international logistics fluctuations
Rising shipping costs
After the pandemic, global shipping capacity is tight and containers are in short supply, resulting in a sharp increase in shipping costs.
Unstable routes and frequent ship delays affect delivery cycles.
Limited air transport capacity
The number of international passenger flights has decreased, belly cargo capacity has decreased, and air transport costs remain high.
The suspension of some routes has blocked logistics channels in key markets.
Decreased efficiency of land transport and cross-border logistics
Strict border control in some countries has reduced the time efficiency of cross-border truck transportation.
The demand for land transport channels such as the China-Europe Express has surged, but it still faces congestion problems.
Port congestion and increased storage costs
Major ports in Europe and the United States (such as Los Angeles and Rotterdam) continue to be congested, and the detention time of goods is extended.
Overseas warehouse rents have risen, and inventory turnover pressure has increased.
- The impact of international logistics fluctuations on maternal and infant exports
Rising cost pressure
The proportion of logistics costs in total export costs has increased, squeezing corporate profit margins.
Some small and medium-sized enterprises are forced to reduce orders or exit the market due to tight capital chains.
Extended delivery cycle
Logistics delays lead to uncertainty in customer delivery time, affecting brand reputation and customer satisfaction.
The return rate of cross-border e-commerce has increased, increasing after-sales costs.
Challenges to supply chain stability
Increased uncertainty in raw material procurement and finished product transportation affects production plans.
Some companies that rely on a single transportation channel face the risk of supply interruption.
Changes in market demand
Consumers have higher requirements for logistics timeliness and are more inclined to choose localized supply chain brands.
Demand for online shopping has increased, but logistics issues may weaken the advantages of cross-border e-commerce.
- Response strategies and suggestions
- Optimize logistics channels and reduce transportation costs
Diversify transportation methods: Combine multi-channel transportation such as sea transportation, air transportation, and China-Europe trains to diversify risks.
Long-term cooperation agreement: Sign a long-term agreement with a logistics service provider to lock in freight rates and reduce the impact of price fluctuations.
Regionalized warehousing layout: Set up overseas warehouses near the target market (such as Southeast Asia and Europe) to shorten delivery time.
- Improve supply chain resilience
Supplier diversification: Avoid relying on a single supplier and establish a global procurement network.
Safe inventory management: Increase inventory buffers for key raw materials and finished products to respond to sudden logistics disruptions.
Digital supply chain management: Use big data and AI technology to predict logistics risks and optimize inventory and transportation plans.
- Adjust market strategies to adapt to new demands
Localized operations: Set up branches or cooperative distributors in major export markets to improve response speed.
Focus on high value-added products: Reduce the export of low-profit products and turn to high-end maternal and child products (such as organic milk powder and smart maternal and child equipment).
Strengthen brand stickiness: Enhance customer loyalty through membership and subscription models, and reduce customer churn caused by logistics delays.
- Policy and financial support
Use government subsidies: Pay attention to the export support policies of various countries and apply for logistics subsidies or tax incentives.
Supply chain finance: Alleviate financial pressure through letters of credit, accounts receivable financing, etc.
Insurance coverage: Purchase logistics delay insurance and cargo damage insurance to reduce force majeure risks.
IV. Conclusion
In the post-epidemic era, international logistics fluctuations will continue, and maternal and infant export companies need to actively adjust their strategies, optimize supply chain management, and flexibly respond to market changes. By diversifying logistics layout, improving supply chain resilience, and adjusting market strategies, companies can reduce the negative impact of logistics fluctuations and maintain competitiveness in the global market.
Keywords: international logistics, maternal and infant exports, supply chain management, cross-border e-commerce, overseas warehouses