We never imagined the COVID-19 pandemic would so drastically disrupt our normal life. From stay-at-home orders to the toll on health and lives, this pandemic has changed many things across the country.
Unfortunately, those same disruptions continue to this day. Even with the introduction of an effective vaccine, we are continuing to see COVID levels spike across the country. Our problems may seem small compared to those who’ve lost jobs or loved ones, but the virus has affected us, and we still feel its impact.
Here’s what you should know about your online orders during the current pandemic.
Disruptions Throughout the Supply Chain
COVID cases are spiking throughout the country, as well as internationally. This is resulting in major disruptions in almost every stage of the supply chain. For example, an outbreak in a factory could cause shutdowns that temporarily limit stock of select items. Though not as extreme as the initial widespread shortages, this remains a recurring issue.
Outbreaks and disruptions at other supply chain stages have become more common recently. Manufacturers produce many products internationally and then ship them overseas via containers. However, increased product demand and the pandemic have led to record container shipment delays.
Less than one-third of ocean shipments reached the U.S. on time in November 2020, according to a recent study. The study found that delays weren’t just getting more frequent — they were also getting longer. We anticipate even greater shipment delays during the Chinese New Year due to factory closures.
Once products arrive in the United States, they aren’t immune from pandemic-related disruptions, either. We’re seeing warehouses and distribution centers suspend operations due to COVID outbreaks among workers. At the pandemic’s onset, UPS halted its Service Guarantee because of COVID disruptions and a surge in online orders.
Needless to say, we wish we could guarantee fast delivery, but these uncontrollable circumstances make it impossible. Despite our efforts to send orders quickly, unforeseen problems may occur.
What Comes Next?
Here at Kitchen & Bath Authority, we understand how frustrating order delays can be. We’re doing everything we can to ensure as timely of a delivery as possible. All orders placed on our website are processed upon receipt, after which we perform credit verification and send info to our distributors to get the order shipped out.
Normally, this means that orders are shipped within 24 to 48 hours of receipt, as long as the items are in stock. Items shipped via UPS should receive a tracking order from UPS. We email tracking orders to you as soon as they become unavailable.
Feel free to contact [email protected] if you lack a tracking number five days after ordering. While this is a rarity in normal times, COVID is making such delays increasingly likely.
Orders might get a UPS tracking number but remain stationary for days because of COVID issues affecting drivers or distribution centers.
Unfortunately, at that point, there isn’t much we can do to expedite your order. It all depends on how quickly our shipping partners can resolve their COVID issues and get back on the road.
While we can’t control what happens during the shipping process, one way to avoid extended delays is to check stock availability on our website when you are placing your order. No matter what item you’re interested in — whether it be a barn door or a bathroom vanity — you’ll see the number of units currently in stock highlighted in green on our site.
Items that don’t have a stock number listed have low stock or are out of stock. Please contact our support team to verify stock and restock dates before placing an order. Double-checking that an item is actually in stock will help ensure expedited arrival of your order, even if there is still the potential for delays while in-transit.
Getting Through COVID-19 Together
At Kitchen & Bath Authority, we pride ourselves on timely shipping, quality service, and discounted prices to help you create your dream home.
While the pandemic may be keeping us from getting orders delivered as quickly as we would like, our commitment to quality products and service remains the same. You can continue to find discounted prices on bathroom and kitchen products from leading manufacturers throughout our site. Special discount codes, our exclusive membership program, and free shipping on all orders combine to make your purchase even more affordable.
We understand how it can be frustrating when your order doesn’t arrive as quickly as you expected. Our support team is always standing by to help address your questions and concerns.
Most of all, we hope that the vaccine rollout will help life get back to normal for all of us sooner rather than later.