It’s a new year, but somethings have not changed.
The problems that have been plaguing our industry (and many others) will continue to be a major consideration as we move into 2022. Here’s what you need to know if you plan to order any printed or promotional products this year:
PLAN AHEAD
Those supply chain issues you’ve been hearing about continue to be a problem. It’s a backlog that starts with the raw materials and goes all the way through manufacturing, production, shipping, customs, etc.
If you want something specific, plan to allow months of advance planning with us (or whoever you’re ordering from).
BE FLEXIBLE
Better yet, be open to alternative products and options. If something you want is out of stock, we usually don’t have a guaranteed timeframe for when inventory will be replenished. Choosing an alternative item is usually a better option.
GIVE US TIME
Everything is taking longer than usual. Production lead times are longer — largely due to staffing shortages from illness or unfilled job openings, or both. Shipping times are wildly unpredictable. Rush orders are practically a relic of the past.
Even some of our stand-by printed materials are taking 2-3 times longer than usual to print.
We may not be able to meet urgent, last-minute needs.
TAKE STOCK
If you have items you use regularly, pay attention to what your current inventory is, and re-order well in advance to avoid running out while all of the problems listed above bog down your reordering process.
BUDGET CAREFULLY
Finally, prices have been going up in all product categories. If you’ve got a strict budget, leave some cushion for yourself to allow for sudden and unpredictable price increases.
Jag Forms 
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