Chinese New Year is often the first real test of the year for global supply chains. Although the celebrations don’t begin until mid-February in 2026, the impact on production and shipping starts much earlier. By the time January arrives, factories are already working towards shutdown dates, and freight capacity begins to tighten. For businesses moving goods in or out of Asia, this is usually the point where planning really matters.
Why the Chinese New Year Has Such a Big Impact
Chinese New Year isn’t just a long weekend. It’s a period when large parts of China effectively pause. Factories close, teams travel home, and many operations slow or stop altogether. Even once the holiday ends, it can take time for workforces to return and production to get back up to speed. That pause ripples right through global supply chains.
How the Disruption Typically Unfolds
Every year looks slightly different, but the pattern is usually familiar.
In early to mid-January, factories focus on finishing orders ahead of the holiday. Export volumes increase as businesses try to get goods shipped before production stops.
As late January and early February approach, space becomes harder to secure. Cut-off dates move forward; sailings fill quickly, and last-minute changes become difficult.
During mid-February, factories close for the holiday period. Production pauses, and activity at ports and terminals is reduced.
When operations restart in late February and March, volumes often surge. This can lead to congestion and longer lead times while backlogs are cleared.
What This Means for Shippers
For many businesses, the Chinese New Year brings a few familiar challenges.
Production capacity can be limited in the weeks leading up to the holiday, making late orders hard to accommodate. Shipping space becomes more competitive, particularly on popular routes. Cargo booked too close to the shutdown period may be delayed until after operations resume.
Once factories reopen, the sudden increase in volumes can cause further delays before things fully settle.
Planning Makes a Real Difference
The most effective way to manage Chinese New Year disruption is simply to start early.
Confirming production schedules, understanding cut-off dates and allowing a little extra time either side of the holiday can make a noticeable difference. Flexibility, where possible, also helps when space starts to tighten.
January isn’t early when it comes to the Chinese New Year. In reality, it’s often when the best options are still available.
A Practical Start to 2026
Chinese New Year happens every year, but it still catches businesses out. Usually not because the dates were unknown, but because the wider impact wasn’t factored in early enough.
With 2026 now underway, this is a good time to review upcoming shipments and make sure plans are in place before things get busy.
If you’d like to talk through how Chinese New Year 2026 could affect your imports or exports, our team is always happy to help you plan – get in touch.