When everything runs smoothly at our ports, companies will get their goods at the right time, logistics firms will adhere to their promises to the customers and buyers will get their items in a predictable, timely and reliable manner. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. In many instances, there are supply chain disruptions caused by overcrowding, weather problems, and geopolitical problems. When you add the global pandemic into the mix, things take a new turn for the worst. With all these challenges, consumers are expected to increase in the future. Also, the amount of goods being shipped from overseas, mainly China, is expected to grow.  With this increase in demand, there is a likelihood of port congestion.

No one likes getting held up in traffic, but for supply chain companies, traffic jams have a bigger consequence than in any other sector. It not only affects your timelines but can also affect your business in its entirety and might even end up leading to massive losses. According to a survey done by The Associated General Contractors of America, 93 percent of companies that took part in the study reported that traffic and congestion have a significant impact on their operations. Further studies indicate that most populated areas suffer from traffic congestion and its impact than other areas.

The recent ransomware attack on the Colonial Pipeline in the US on May 7, 2021, shows the challenges that a supply chain can encounter if it lacks adequate cyber defenses and strategies. Though it belongs to a private firm, this pipeline supplies almost half of the US East Coast with liquid fuel. However, the recent attack that led to the cutting of the supply of this critical commodity shows that a lack of a cyber strategy can jeopardize your operations and impact your income.