ENG – Savino Del Bene S.p.A.

The “peak season” is a critical period for all companies that rely on logistics and international shipping, as it represents a time when the demand for freight shipments and inventory management services reaches its peak. During these high-intensity seasons, shipping volumes increase significantly, and companies face complex operational challenges, from infrastructure overload to potential delivery delays.

Planning in advance and managing peak season effectively becomes essential for businesses aiming to maintain high service levels and meet customer expectations. This article by Savino Del Bene aims to explore the challenges of peak season, the main periods of the year when it occurs, common issues that arise, and the best strategies to handle it successfully.

What is peak season?

The “peak season” is a period during which there is a significant increase in demand for logistics and shipping services. This surge is generally linked to holidays, promotional events, seasonal peaks, or changes in consumer behavior that drive demand for goods above normal levels. For companies needing to ship their goods, peak season implies a more complex resource management process, requiring advanced planning to prevent the overload of requests from negatively impacting service quality.

Peak season is particularly relevant for sectors like e-commerce, retail distribution, and import/export, where the ability to deliver on time has a direct impact on customer satisfaction.

When peak season occurs: 5 key periods

Peak seasons vary depending on the sector and geographic context but generally focus on five key periods. Let’s take a closer look at them.

Chinese New Year

Chinese New Year, usually celebrated between late January and early February, is one of the main peak seasons for global freight forwarding shipment. Many factories in China and Southeast Asia close for a week or more, and production does not fully resume for about a month. This leads to a peak in shipments in the preceding weeks, as manufacturers strive to fulfill orders before the closure, and delays in the month following the holiday, as production resumes gradually.

Carnival

Although not universally considered a peak season, in countries like Brazil, Carnival represents a work hiatus that affects logistics and production activities. During Carnival week, which is held in February, companies close, and shipments slow down, especially in the export sector. This can impact timelines for companies operating in collaboration with the South American market.

Summer period

The summer months (July and August) represent a peak period for seasonal shipments, particularly for products related to tourism, vacations, and summer consumption. The summer peak season can be challenging due to the generally reduced operational availability typical of this time of year, affecting various industries. Accurate planning and flexible organization are therefore essential to ensure the continuity of shipments and effectively meet demand.

Black Friday and Cyber Monday

These events, held at the end of November, kick off the peak season for the Christmas period. During Black Friday and Cyber Monday, e-commerce sales reach extremely high levels, directly impacting shipment volumes. For logistics companies, this requires enhancing storage and distribution systems while ensuring rapid delivery times to meet customer expectations.

Christmas and New Year

The holiday season marks the busiest period for shipments, with demand peaking during the week leading up to December 25th. This critical time requires flawless coordination between production, shipment, and distribution to avoid delays and ensure timely deliveries. Companies begin preparations months in advance, carefully planning inventory and optimizing logistics flows to meet the increasing demand for gift-related and holiday products.

Which impact can peak season cause?

As one might expect, peak season presents various operational challenges that can significantly impact business, including:

Potential delivery delays: The increase in shipment volumes during the peak season can overload transportation networks and sorting hubs, potentially causing delays in deliveries. This issue impacts companies’ ability to uphold their promises of punctuality, negatively affecting customer satisfaction and relationships with business partners;
Possible increase in shipment costs: Higher demand during the peak season can drive up rates for sea, air, and land transport. This increase in operational costs can directly impact a company’s margins, forcing a reassessment of final pricing or an increase in logistical expenses;
Potential infrastructure overload: Ports, airports, warehouses, and distribution centers may reach their operational capacity limits. This overload can lead to congestion, delays in loading and unloading operations, and difficulties in coordinating shipments, especially for time-sensitive goods;
Greater tracking challenges: Managing a high volume of shipments can complicate the precise tracking of goods. Without an efficient tracking system, the risk of errors and losses increases, reducing visibility and the ability to respond promptly to unforeseen issues;
Possible stock shortages: High demand can also lead to stock shortages, especially for the most sought-after products. This phenomenon negatively affects sales and forces companies to revise their forecasts and inventory policies to adequately respond to seasonal peaks;
Potential increase in returns: During peak periods, sales volumes rise significantly, often leading to a higher number of returns, especially for e-commerce businesses. Efficient management of returns becomes essential to reduce costs and maintain smooth logistics operations, but it requires additional resources and careful logistical planning.

How to manage peak season: effective strategies

Several strategies can be implemented by companies to mitigate peak season efficiently and minimize the impact of critical issues. Here are some key approaches.

Early planning

The key to effectively managing the peak season, especially during the holiday period, lies primarily in accurate planning that takes into account not only transit times but also the time required for warehousing and distribution activities. Identifying demand peaks related to the festive season well in advance allows for securing shipment capacity and avoiding critical overlaps, ensuring timely deliveries during such an important time for customers.

Optimized inventory management

Increasing stock before peak season and optimizing inventory levels can reduce the chances of running out of products. Implementing solutions for continuous stock monitoring ensures products are always available when needed.

Collaboration with reliable logistics partners

Establishing strong partnerships with experienced logistics and shipping providers enables quick and flexible solutions in case of unforeseen circumstances. Reliable forwarders like Savino Del Bene can offer support in sea, air, and land shipments, providing a wide range of integrated services and allowing companies to maintain high service quality at all times.

Operational flexibility

During peak season, being ready to modify shipping methods (such as switching from sea to air transport for urgent orders) is crucial to ensure on-time deliveries. This operational flexibility allows for quick response to demand changes.

Conclusion

Handling peak season requires a well-structured management strategy based on early planning and efficient use of logistical resources. With its extensive experience and a wide range of integrated transport and warehousing services, Savino Del Bene represents an ideal strategic partner for successfully addressing peak season challenges. Savino Del Bene’s sea, air, land shipping and integrated logistics services can provide the necessary support to manage these intense periods effectively, keeping business operations efficient and meeting customer expectations even during high-pressure times. Contact your local Savino Del Bene representative today.

Container Freight Stations (CFS) have revolutionized logistics management by offering agile and versatile solutions for cargo consolidation and distribution. These strategic facilities in international shipping have become essential for ensuring the efficiency of supply chains by reducing time and operational costs.

In this article, curated by Savino Del Bene, we will explore in detail what a CFS is, its main functions, and how these stations can optimize import and export processes, highlighting the benefits for companies operating in international trade.

What is a CFS?

A Container Freight Station (CFS) is a logistics facility where crucial operations related to the handling of containerized cargo take place. It serves as a loading and unloading point used to consolidate small shipments from various shippers. In ocean freight, these partial loads are often referred to as LCL (Less than Container Load), while in air freight, standardized PMC pallets are used to optimize space and ensure safe transport. The CFS thus enables the consolidation and sorting of cargo into multiple shipments, whether by sea or by air.

CFS facilities are usually located near seaports or airports to facilitate the transfer of goods between different modes of transport, such as ships, trucks, and trains. This type of facility represents a crucial node in the global supply chain, helping to streamline the shipping process and improve cargo handling.

What are the functions of a CFS?

Container Freight Stations (CFS) perform numerous essential functions for the logistics process of international shipments. These functions not only optimize the movement of goods but also help companies improve operational efficiency, reduce costs, and ensure greater security and control. Let’s take a closer look at the main functions provided by CFS facilities.

Cargo consolidation

One of the most important functions of a CFS is cargo consolidation. This process allows shipments from different shippers to be combined into a single container or pallet, optimizing space utilization and reducing shipping costs. Consolidation is particularly useful in LCL (Less than Container Load) shipments for ocean freight and in the use of PMC pallets for air freight, where cargo from various shippers is grouped to create a full load. This way, even small volumes of goods can benefit from the favorable rates of consolidated shipments, whether by sea or by air.

Cargo deconsolidation

The opposite of consolidation is cargo deconsolidation, which occurs when a container reaches its destination. After unloading, the container is transported to the CFS, where it is opened, and the goods are divided to be sent to their respective recipients. This step is critical to ensure efficient and error-free distribution, especially when goods need to reach different final destinations.

Inspection and customs clearance

A CFS also serves as a central point for inspection and customs clearance operations. Customs authorities can inspect goods directly within the CFS, speeding up the clearance process. Here, goods are verified, and if necessary, the applicable duties and taxes are imposed. The presence of dedicated areas within the CFS for these operations helps reduce waiting times and quickly manage all customs formalities.

Temporary storage

CFS facilities also offer dedicated spaces for the temporary storage of goods. This service is particularly useful when goods need to be stored for a short period before continuing to their final destination. Warehouses within the CFS ensure that goods are protected from damage, theft, and the elements, ensuring safe handling during transit or while awaiting distribution.

Ancillary services

Lastly, many CFS facilities provide a range of ancillary services that go beyond mere cargo handling. These include labeling and repackaging, which ensure that goods are correctly identified and ready for the next stage of transport or sale. Shipping documentation management is another service offered, simplifying the entire logistics process and ensuring that goods comply with the regulations of destination markets.

The two processes in a CFS

Operations within a Container Freight Station (CFS) can be divided into two main processes: the import process and the export process. Each phase requires careful management to ensure the efficient handling of goods.

Import process

In the import process, containers arriving from abroad are unloaded and transported to the CFS. Here, they are opened to allow the goods to be divided among the various recipients. This process also involves customs authorities for the inspection of goods and the payment of duties, if applicable. Once the customs procedure is completed, the goods can be picked up by the recipients or sent to their final warehouse destinations.

Export process

In the export process, the CFS consolidates goods from various shippers that need to be sent abroad. These goods are grouped into a container or pallet, which is then sealed and transported to the port (in the case of sea shipping) or the airport (for air shipments) for loading. The CFS plays a crucial role in optimizing the load by maximizing space within the container or pallet to ensure efficiency and reduce transportation costs.

What are the benefits of a CFS?

Using a Container Freight Station (CFS) offers numerous benefits for both companies and logistics operators. Here are some of the main advantages:

Space optimization and cost reduction: consolidating shipments from different shippers into a single container allows for the best use of available space and reduces transportation costs. This is especially advantageous for LCL shipments, where companies share container space, lowering overall costs;
Greater logistics flexibility: CFS facilities allow companies to efficiently manage even small shipments without having to wait for a full container. This flexibility results in faster operations and a more immediate response to market needs, adapting better to volume fluctuations;
Reduction in customs clearance time: thanks to dedicated customs inspection areas, CFS facilities allow for faster customs clearance, reducing waiting times and minimizing operational delays. Collaboration with customs authorities speeds up the release of goods, improving overall efficiency;
Cargo security: CFS facilities provide secure spaces for the temporary storage of goods, protecting them from damage or theft during transit. This is especially important for delicate or high-value goods that require additional protection and care;
Additional services: as mentioned earlier, in addition to cargo handling, many CFS facilities offer extra services such as packaging, labeling, and document management. These additional services help companies prepare their goods for distribution or sale, simplifying logistics and ensuring compliance with current regulations.

Conclusion

Container Freight Stations represent an essential resource for companies looking to optimize their logistics operations, improve efficiency, and reduce costs. Thanks to the numerous benefits they offer, CFSs are a strategic option for those involved in international trade. If your company is seeking solutions to enhance shipment management, considering the use of a CFS can make a significant difference. Savino Del Bene, with its extensive experience in international shipping, offers customized CFS management services to meet the specific needs of every business, integrating warehouse solutions and secure storage areas for all types of shipments.

For ocean freight shipments, we handle container loading and unloading, secure container and chassis positioning, and Verified Gross Mass (VGM) weighing. We provide security seals and anti-tampering devices to ensure cargo integrity, including temperature monitoring for sensitive products. For air shipments, our warehouses are equipped for the efficient handling of ULD pallets, and we offer sorting, weighing, and labeling services. We guarantee storage under controlled conditions and “on-demand” security checks with X-ray scanners and explosives detectors for maximum protection.

Partnering with an experienced provider like Savino Del Bene means optimizing your logistics operations. Interested in learning more? Request a consultation from your local Savino Del Bene contact today.

High Point Market takes place twice a year in High Point, North Carolina, USA, in April and October, transforming the city into a true “city of furniture, home decor, design, and interior lighting.”

For years it has been a prime destination for top manufacturers and designers worldwide, who showcase their high-quality product selections here. With its reputation for excellence and innovation, High Point Market is a must-attend event, not only for those looking to furnish their homes with style and elegance but also for those seeking networking and business opportunities on an international scale.

The team from Savino Del Bene Furniture arrived on October 24, a few days before the official opening of the exhibition halls, with industry specialists ready to offer the best-customized solutions for international logistics and shipping.

2024 Market Trends

Initial forecasts predicted 2024 to be a challenging year for the industry, especially for North American buyers and consumers. Real estate transactions entered a stagnation phase due higher interest rates. Inventory levels remained high, which kept supply volumes from various regions that typically serve the North American market on standby during the first half of the year.

In the Mediterranean area, restricted passage through the Suez Canal impacted service offerings from shipping lines, also affecting transatlantic routes.

However, the market showed resilience, particularly in the high-end segment, where Italy leads the way. June and July saw a peak in orders, mainly driven by efforts to mitigate impacts of anticipated strikes at East Coast U.S. ports. Fortunately, the labor stoppage lasted only three days, and disruptions were limited.

Toward the end of the year, the rise in rates on the transatlantic route indicates strong sales and steady shipping volumes. By contrast, the transpacific route remains volatile.

2025 Outlook

Following the U.S. election period, from a shipping perspective, a further surge in U.S. import demand is expected in the short term. Shippers with non-time-sensitive goods may increase imports ahead of potential new tariffs. In the long term, import dynamics may shift further, as seen with Chinese goods in recent years increasingly routed through Mexico.

Some analysts, however, foresee a potential negative impact on U.S. exports due to retaliatory tariffs, which could exacerbate the imbalance between flows of loaded and empty containers. Additionally, upcoming negotiations between the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) raise concerns over a potential strike at East Coast and Gulf Coast ports starting in January.

These were some of the key topics at High Point Market, where exporters and importers sought solutions to optimize and improve the efficiency of their supply chains.

Would you like to know more?

Contact our representatives to learn how Savino Del Bene can support your business and projects on a global scale. We’ll help you navigate the complexities of logistics, so you can focus on what matters most: your décor products and your clients.

Hamburg, Germany & Florence, Italy – In a strategic move to further establish its presence in the German market, Savino Del Bene has announced the acquisition of Hamburg-based company Seabridge Transport GmbH. This aligns with the multinational Freight Forwarding and Logistics Company’s growth strategy, solidifying its role in one of Germany’s core logistics hubs.
Hamburg, which served as the administrative headquarters for Savino Del Bene German operations, will now fully become an operating base for the Company, allowing to offer Savino Del Bene’s complete range of core products and services.

“Seabridge is an ideal fit for Savino Del Bene”, said Andreas Kujawski, Managing Director Savino Del Bene Germany. “Especially in sea freight, Seabridge is strong in imports, Savino Del Bene is strong in exports. We are not only increasing our sea freight volume significantly, but with a balanced import and export volume we are becoming the ideal partner for container shipping lines, who now also find in Savino Del Bene a loyal partner for equipment repositioning in the Northwest Continent.”

Oliver Foessleitner, Managing Owner of Seabridge: “Savino Del Bene, with its global freight forwarding network, is the ideal platform to ensure the further growth of our Hamburg organization. Two owner-managed, high-performance air and sea freight forwarding companies are growing together.”

In the year of Savino Del Bene 125th Anniversary, acquisition of Seabridge strengthens the Company presence in the region, creating new synergies to drive growth and expand opportunities on the German Market.

About Savino Del Bene

Savino Del Bene is a multinational Company operating worldwide in international shipping and logistics support services. The Company manages air, sea, and overland transportation services through its long-standing relationships with the best carriers and service providers. The Company offers its global services with around 6,000 employees and 340 operational branches in all parts of the world. Savino Del Bene firmly believes in the importance of maintaining an extensive presence in the territory to fully understand the needs of the customers and to offer an adequate shipment service, guided by the market itself. In 2023, Savino Del Bene shipped 735k TEU by sea and 87k tons by air, ending the year with a revenue of 2.7 billion euros. Further information can be found here.

About Seabridge

Seabridge is the ideal combination of the Hanseatic values of a medium-sized family business with the know-how of a mature, internationally operating logistics service provider. With its global network of selected logistics partners, Seabridge creates transport solutions that exactly fit your requirements in the areas of sea freight, air freight, rail freight, supply chain management, project logistics, food logistics, e-commerce and customs clearance. Further information can be found here.

Download press release

Contacts:
Press Office
Savino Del Bene
communication@savinodelbene.com;
PH. 055 5219816

Savino Del Bene Germany
Andreas C. Kujawski
Managing Director Germany / Geschäftsführer Deutschland
Grimm 8, 20457 Hamburg, Germany
Phone: +49 40 226 33 42 – 01
Email: andreas.kujawski@savinodelbene.com

Seabridge
Oliver Foessleitner
Geschäftsführer / Managing Director
Ludwig-Erhard-Str.14, 20459 Hamburg, Germany
Phone: +49 (0)40 374933-25
Email: ofoessleitner@seabridge.de

In pharmaceutical logistics, the quality and safety of medicinal products heavily depend on adherence to strict standards at every stage of the distribution process. In this regard, Good Distribution Practice (GDP) represents a set of essential regulations that ensure pharmaceutical products maintain their integrity from manufacturing all the way to the end patient. These guidelines are particularly important to safeguard the quality of drugs and to ensure that every batch arrives in optimal conditions.

In this context, logistics plays a crucial role, and GDP stands as a fundamental pillar. In this article by Savino Del Bene, we delve into the role of Good Distribution Practice in pharmaceutical logistics.

What is GDP?

Good Distribution Practice (GDP) is a set of guidelines that govern the distribution of pharmaceutical products, regulated internationally by agencies such as the EMA (European Medicines Agency).

The primary goal of GDP is to ensure that medicines are distributed in compliance with high-quality standards, preventing the risk of contamination, counterfeiting, or deterioration. GDP applies to the entire logistics process, from production to distribution, including transportation and stock management. Complying with these guidelines means, for distributors and freight forwarders, ensuring that medicines are always stored and transported under controlled conditions, preserving their quality and effectiveness.

The key principles of GDP

Good Distribution Practices (GDP) are based on a series of principles aimed at preserving the quality and safety of pharmaceutical products throughout the entire distribution chain. Here is a brief overview of the key points that companies must follow to ensure compliance with these guidelines:

Temperature control: sensitive medicines must be stored at appropriate temperatures. GDP requires continuous monitoring systems to detect any variations and ensure prompt corrective actions;
Traceability: it is essential to monitor every stage of the logistics process, from origin to the final patient, allowing for quick interventions in the event of defects or issues, thus limiting risks to the consumer;
Inventory management: GDP prescribes the FIFO (First in, First Out) method to avoid the deterioration of medicines, ensuring that those with upcoming expiration dates are used first. Constant inventory monitoring is crucial to prevent shortages or surpluses;
Hygiene and safety: storage conditions must meet strict hygiene standards to protect medicines from contamination. Operators must also be trained to follow rigorous procedures;
Supplier and carrier qualification: companies must ensure that their partners comply with GDP regulations through regular audits and periodic checks, ensuring that the entire logistics chain consistently operates according to the required standards.

Potential consequences for non-compliance with GDP

Non-compliance with Good Distribution Practice can have serious consequences for companies operating in pharmaceutical distribution. These repercussions can be economic, legal, and reputational, negatively affecting the company’s stability and the trust of its business partners. Let’s examine them in detail.

Damaged reputation

Reputation is a fundamental asset for pharmaceutical companies and distributors. Failure to comply with GDP can seriously damage the trust of business partners and customers. In the pharmaceutical sector, even a single violation of the regulations can lead to a loss of credibility. For this reason, companies that fail to ensure GDP compliance risk being perceived as unreliable.

Product recall

One of the most direct consequences of GDP non-compliance is the need to recall non-compliant products from the market. If a drug is distributed under conditions that do not comply with the guidelines, it may undergo alterations that compromise its safety or effectiveness. Product recalls incur high costs, not only for the logistics involved in the recall but also for the loss of value of the batches and the corrective actions required.

Increased surveillance

When a company fails to comply with GDP regulations, it may come under the close supervision of regulatory authorities. Organizations like the EMA may decide to intensify inspections and controls, increasing pressure on the company’s operations. This heightened surveillance not only generates additional costs related to inspections but can also slow down the efficiency of daily activities.

Fines and penalties

Companies that fail to comply with GDP may be subject to heavy economic and legal sanctions. Authorities can revoke or suspend the licenses required for pharmaceutical distribution, forcing the company to temporarily or permanently halt its operations. In addition to financial penalties, companies may face legal action for damages caused to consumers, with far-reaching financial and reputational consequences.

The role of freight forwarders in GDP logistics

Freight forwarders play a key role in ensuring GDP compliance during the shipping and logistics processes for pharmaceutical products. They provide:

Specialized shipping solutions: freight forwarders offer tailored services to meet the specific needs of pharmaceutical distribution. These solutions include temperature control systems, specialized packaging, and real-time monitoring, adapting transportation modes to the characteristics of pharmaceutical products;
Collaboration with suppliers: thanks to a global network of collaborators and suppliers, freight forwarders can ensure safe and reliable distribution, minimizing the risks of delays or supply chain disruptions. This collaboration helps optimize routes and delivery times, helping to meet the timescales required by the sector;
Compliance management: freight forwarders support pharmaceutical companies in ensuring GDP compliance, not only through logistics management but also by offering consulting to improve processes. This may include internal audits, staff training, and supply chain checks to ensure all operators adhere to regulations, thus reducing the risks of non-compliance.

Control Tower: how to optimize the supply chain while complying with GDP

In addition to the services listed, the implementation of a Control Tower is increasingly a key element for the pharma vertical. The Control Tower is a crucial element for optimizing supply chain management in the pharmaceutical sector, especially when it comes to ensuring compliance with Good Distribution Practices (GDP). This advanced technological solution allows freight forwarders like Savino Del Bene to offer proactive and centralized monitoring of logistics operations.

Through the Control Tower, it is possible to:

Monitor shipments in real-time: thanks to Track & Trace and geofencing systems, every product movement is under control, ensuring accurate tracking throughout the entire journey.
Collect and analyze data: the Control Tower enables continuous data collection, which is analyzed to prevent and manage potential issues, such as temperature fluctuations during transportation.
Enhance supply chain management: with a centralized view of operations, it is possible to intervene promptly to resolve potential problems and ensure shipments comply with stringent GDP standards.
Continuous KPI and reporting: the Control Tower generates detailed reports on supply chain performance, improving transparency and enabling results-oriented management.

The implementation of a Control Tower not only increases security and efficiency but also provides greater flexibility and adaptability to changes in logistics requirements. For partners in the pharmaceutical sector, implementing this framework means reducing logistics risks and ensuring that products reach patients in optimal conditions.

Conclusion

Good Distribution Practice represents an essential element for the safe and compliant distribution of pharmaceutical products. Its application not only protects consumers but also ensures that companies operate according to the highest quality standards. Relying on certified logistics partners, such as Savino Del Bene, is a strategic choice for those operating in the pharmaceutical sector and wanting to be certain of meeting every regulation.

With its GDP certification and extensive experience, Savino Del Bene offers customized and secure logistics solutions, ensuring the highest quality and reliability while complying with current regulations. Interested in learning more? Request a consultation with your local Savino Del Bene contact now.

Savino Del Bene served as the trusted logistics partner for Honda Motor Europe Ltd. for the Honda Ladakh Adventure. Six brave riders rode the six Africa Twin motorcyles across four Himalayan passes all the way to Umling La in India, the world’s highest motorable mountain pass at 5,798 meters. (19,022 feet)
For Savino Del Bene, this was much more than just a shipment. Transporting the motorcycles over thousands of kilometers and delivering them to an extreme mountain environment like Ladakh required expert planning and flawless coordination between the Italian and Indian branches. The main challenge was ensuring that the bikes arrived in perfect condition and on time for the start of the adventure, while overcoming the logistical difficulties posed by high-altitude transportation and Indian customs regulations.

Route and Mode of Transportation

The shipment of the six motorcycles, with a total weight of 3,976 kg, followed a complex and multimodal route which was comprised of air and overland modes of transport. After the motorcycles arrived in New Delhi from Malpensa, Savino Del Bene India organized the road transport to Leh, on the banks of the Indus River at an altitude of 3,500 meters. (11,482 feet)This last leg covered a distance close to 1,000 km, and took approximately 4-5 days. It posed several challenges due to the high altitude and difficult road conditions that included notoriously rugged sections.
For the final leg, a specialized truck for oversized loads was used to navigate the winding mountain roads to Leh. It was here that the motorcycles were delivered directly to the event organizers, ready to be used in the Ladakh Adventure.

At the end of the event, the “adventurous” cargo was shipped back to Italy by sea and air.

Savino Del Bene’s Pharma & Healthcare team was pleased to attend CPHI Milan 2024 from 8th to 10th of October, the premier event connecting key players in the pharmaceutical supply chain. The event provided an ideal platform to foster new opportunities and engage with pharmaceutical companies, packaging experts, research institutions, and industry leaders from around the globe, opening up new opportunities for collaboration.
The CPHI Global events are an invaluable platform for gaining insights into the latest innovations and trends shaping the pharmaceutical industry. This year, we witnessed firsthand how emerging technologies are revolutionizing the supply chain by enhancing transparency, risk assessment, ensuring real-time monitoring, and improving efficiency throughout the entire pharmaceutical logistics process. Sustainable practices were also a major focus, with discussions centered on how the industry can continue to innovate while minimizing its environmental footprint.
At Savino Del Bene, we are committed to adapting to industry shifts and developments. By actively collaborating with key players, we help pharmaceutical companies navigate tomorrow’s challenges with agility, safety, and innovation.
To learn more about how we can support your business with tailored freight forwarding and supply chain solutions, feel free to contact us or further explore our service.

Important Update: US East & Gulf Coast Port Strike Resolution (4 October)

The port strike across the US East and Gulf Coasts has officially ended. Dockworkers are expected to resume operations on Friday, October 4, 2024. However, the backlog caused by the strike is expected to lead to continued congestion throughout the rest of the month.We are working closely with carrier lines to address any disruptions and ensure that all cargo reaches its final destination as planned. For any questions, please contact your local Savino Del Bene representatives in our global network of more than 330 offices.Thank you for your patience and understanding of the situation.

US East & Gulf Coast Ports on Strike (1 October)

As of October 1, 2024, dockworkers along the U.S. East and Gulf Coasts have officially gone on strike, resulting in the closure of 14 major ports, including Miami, New York/New Jersey, Philadelphia, Savannah, and Charleston.
The strike stems from unsuccessful contract negotiations between the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) – which represents approximately 45,000 dockworkers – and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX). Key issues include disputes over wages, working conditions, and concerns regarding automation.

The U.S. administration has opted not to intervene at this stage, refraining from invoking the Taft-Hartley Act. This decision allows the negotiation process to continue without federal intervention.

The strike has already disrupted operations at all major East Coast ports, halting vessel, gate, and rail activities. This is expected to cause significant delays in cargo movement and potential backlogs, impacting a variety of industries.

Mr. Alberto Rivola, Head of Global Ocean Procurement at Savino Del Bene, commented on the strike’s impact:

“This is an exceptional situation which involves exceptional measures though, whose consequences may expand beyond the US borders. Besides the extra costs that customers will pay due to this situation, a prolonged strike will affect the regular flow of equipment. Vessel routings will change, transit times will be even less reliable, causing an increase of freight rates, not just on the trades to the US, but likely across all major deep-sea trades. Savino Del Bene commitment to finding effective solutions for our customers is firm. We appreciate the trust on us, and we will navigate these uncertain waters with you, and we will do the utmost to deliver your cargo in the most suitable way and time, despite the negative circumstances.”

We are closely monitoring the situation and staying in contact with our customers to find suitable solutions to move their cargo. We will be sure to keep everyone informed as developments unfold.

Key Impact on Businesses:

Severe Delays: Cargo movement will cease, creating major supply chain bottlenecks.
Higher Costs: Prolonged transit times and the necessity for rerouting will drive up shipping expenses.
Port Congestion: Significant fees for storing stranded cargo, along with carrier surcharges.
Global Disruption: Congestion at alternative ports and increased demand for logistics services will affect worldwide operations.

Recommendations for Our Customers:

Prepare for West Coast Congestion: As cargo reroutes to the West Coast, anticipate longer wait times and additional costs.
Explore Air Freight Solutions: For time-sensitive shipments, air freight remains the fastest alternative. Savino Del Bene offers flexible air freight services to meet your urgent shipping needs.
Plan for Higher Costs: Increased demand for alternative routes will drive up shipping rates, and delays may result in higher storage and detention fees.
Leverage Our Warehousing and Transload Services: Use Savino Del Bene’s transload capabilities to efficiently move cargo through our warehouses, minimizing the risk of delay at congested ports.
Review Incoterms and Contracts: Ensure that your contracts clearly define financial responsibilities for any additional costs caused by delays or rerouting.

Savino Del Bene’s Response: With our extensive network of assets across the U.S., we can create customized logistics solutions tailored to your business needs. Our capabilities include:

Strategic Rerouting and Alternative Solutions: Leveraging our national presence, we can reroute cargo to minimize delays. Whether through alternative ports or air freight, we will ensure that your shipments continue moving.
Transload Services: Savino Del Bene offers transloading services at our strategically located U.S. warehouses. This allows us to efficiently move cargo from one mode of transportation to another, bypassing congested strike-affected ports and ensuring quick deliveries to final destinations.
Integrated Service Capabilities: Thanks to our extensive US team, we can combine multiple services—including trucking, warehousing, and last-mile delivery—to provide a seamless logistics experience. By performing transloads and managing deliveries from our warehouses, we can help you avoid significant delays and keep your supply chain operational.

To discuss how Savino Del Bene can support your business during this critical time, please reach out to your Savino Del Bene representative. Together, we can develop a proactive plan to mitigate potential disruptions and ensure your supply chain remains resilient.

Hosted in Bologna, Italy, from the 23rd to the 27th of September, CERSAIE is the world’s most renowned exhibition dedicated to tiles, ceramics, bathroom furnishings, and innovative surface solutions. The event gathers manufacturers, designers, and innovators every year, providing a platform to showcase cutting-edge products and discuss the latest industry challenges and breakthroughs.
Savino Del Bene Flooring team was present to connect with industry professionals from around the world and showcase our expertise in logistics for marble, ceramic, natural stone, and other surface materials. At our booth, we had the pleasure of meeting numerous businesses and discussing personalized solutions for shipping, storage, and product management.

Navigating the Challenges: The Flooring Trade Landscape in 2024

Despite early predictions of a challenging year for the sector, the first six months showed impressive resilience, with strong demand, particularly from North America. July and August saw a surge in urgent orders, driven by efforts to mitigate the potential impacts of port strikes on the U.S. East Coast. In Italy, port congestion and a shortage of transporters, exacerbated by railway works, added to the complexity.

At CERSAIE, these were among the most prominent logistic topics, with many companies actively seeking innovative solutions to streamline operations and overcome these hurdles.

Did you miss CERSAIE 2024?

Contact our representatives to discover how Savino Del Bene can support your flooring business and exclusive projects globally. Let us help you navigate the complexities of logistics so you can focus on what matters most: your products and clients.

Savino Del Bene: also figuring consistently in the 2024 rankings as “Top 25 Global Freight Forwarders”, “Top 50 Global 3PL Providers”, & “Top 25 Global Ocean Freight Forwarders” on the Armstrong & Associates (A&A) list.

An established leader in the international shipping sector, Savino Del Bene is proud to announce that it ranks again on the list of “Top 25 Global Freight Forwarders”, “Top 50 Global 3PL Providers”, and “Top 25 Global Ocean Freight Forwarders” by Armstrong & Associates (A&A).This acknowledgment is testament to our Company’s relentless commitment to deliver a consistently top-quality service despite the shifting marketplace, global challenges and technological and geo-political changes.

Armstrong & Associates rankings

Armstrong & Associates is a well-respected resource for data analysis and research in the logistics & supply-chain sector. A&A’s 3PL market estimates are amongst the most quoted in press articles and specialized publications.

The “Top 25 Global Freight Forwarders”, “Top 50 Global 3PL Providers”, and “Top 25 Global Ocean Freight Forwarders” rankings published by AAS are based on an analysis which takes the following criteria into account: Gross Logistic Revenue, Ocean Volumes (TEU) and Air Volumes (Metric Tons) for the previous year. Savino Del Bene achieved the ranking with 2,980 million US dollars in GLR, 735k TEU sent by sea and 87k tons sent by air in 2023.

About Savino Del Bene

Savino Del Bene is a multinational Company operating worldwide in international shipping and logistics support services. Established in Florence in 1899, the Company has grown over time to become the largest specialized Italian shipping company. With a network of more than 330 offices and over 6,000 employees across five continents, the Company manages air, sea, and overland transportation services through its long-standing relationships with the best carriers and service providers.

Comunicato Stampa

Press Office Contacts:
Savino Del Bene
communication@savinodelbene.com
Ph. 055 5219816

What is peak season?

When peak season occurs: 5 key periods

Chinese New Year

Carnival

Summer period

Black Friday and Cyber Monday

Christmas and New Year

Which impact can peak season cause?

How to manage peak season: effective strategies

Early planning

Optimized inventory management

Collaboration with reliable logistics partners

Operational flexibility

Conclusion

What is a CFS?

What are the functions of a CFS?

Cargo consolidation

Cargo deconsolidation

Inspection and customs clearance

Temporary storage

Ancillary services

The two processes in a CFS

Import process

Export process

What are the benefits of a CFS?

Conclusion

What is GDP?

The key principles of GDP

Potential consequences for non-compliance with GDP

Damaged reputation

Product recall

Increased surveillance

Fines and penalties

The role of freight forwarders in GDP logistics

Control Tower: how to optimize the supply chain while complying with GDP

Conclusion

Navigating the Challenges: The Flooring Trade Landscape in 2024

Did you miss CERSAIE 2024?

© 2001 - 2024 Savino Del Bene S.p.a

Resta aggiornato sul mondo Savino Del Bene

Privacy

Corporate Compliance

TRACKING

CONTACT US

MY SDB

SPECIAL EQUIPMENT

Spedizioni per carichi speciali

LCL

Spedizioni marittime “Less than Container Load”

FAST TRACKING

Compila i campi per tracciare la spedizione

FAST TRACKING

Complete la información para rastrear el envío

FAST TRACKING

Fill in the information to track the shipment

FCL

Spedizioni marittime “Full Container Load”