The effects of COVID-19 have spread across the nation and among the multitude of industries, but we wanted to focus on the direct impact it has had on the logistics sector.
The logistics industry plays an integral role in the major supply chains that keep our country up and running, making sure that trade is facilitated, and goods get delivered. Any disruption to this chain can prove detrimental and the pandemic did just that.
Let’s take a look at how COVID-19 has affected the logistics sector over the last year and what the future looks like.
Timeline of COVID-19 & the Logistics Industry
The Start: Beginning of 2020
China was the first to feel the effects of COVID-19 and this is significant because they are major players when it comes to global manufacturing. This ultimately created a domino effect down the global supply chains which was then met by the pandemic spreading to the rest of the world.
Immediate reactions saw border closures and national lockdowns meaning the movement of goods were restricted. There was no time to adapt, just to severely react. Shortly afterwards, adaptations were enforced in order to maintain the safety of workers, such as social distancing and strict hygiene guidelines.
During the Pandemic
There was never any question that the logistics sector had to continue operation in order to keep essential services functioning. In fact, there has been an additional demand for land freight logistics in order to deliver vital food and medical supplies. The volumes of domestic, e-commerce freight in comparison to business freight has been overwhelming, especially with covid-related restrictions.
Operational constraints have stemmed from lockdown measures, ultimately affecting employee availability and supply chain disruptions. This has made logistics operations very difficult over the months, leading to delivery delays, congestion and higher freight rates. One thing can be said though, the industry is not giving up and continues to fight through this pandemic for the country.
One substantial way the logistics sector is helping fight the COVID-19 virus is by joining forces with the NHS and offering strong support to them throughout this time. This includes helping with the vaccine rollout across the nation which is being renowned for its continuous success rate over the last couple of months. It’s a great turning point for the country and one the industry is proud to be a part of.
COVID-19 Adaptations the Logistics Sector Have Made
One of the most effective adaptations that has allowed the logistics sector to continue operating are the introduction of new safety protocols. This includes social distancing at all times, disinfecting work areas and vehicles, wearing personal protective equipment and contactless delivery. These procedures have been taken very seriously because the logistics sector not only wants to protect their employees, but the customers too.
The Future for the Logistics Sector
With such an unpredictable year behind us, it’s tough to tell what the future holds. The COVID-19 pandemic is still continuing and, although the end may be in sight, it doesn’t mean these impacts won’t be lasting.
It’s safe to say that the logistics sector will learn from this unique experience and be able to prepare again in case it was to ever happen again. Some of the protocols put in place now may stay, but the easing of lockdown and borders opening will surely aid the operation.
As the industry is so diverse, the recovery will be varied across the board. At Cross Country Carriers, we are proud to still be operating and looking after the public’s wellbeing. We have been keeping up to date with every development and adapting to each new announcement to ensure we are working as safely as possible.
