A perfect storm of factors has delayed shipping worldwide, and the woodworking tool industry is not exempt. “Demand continues to be high in the power tool industry while overseas factories are experiencing the same COVID and labor issues we’re seeing domestically,” said Jessica Douglas, Woodcraft’s Director of Multi-Channel Sales. Demand surged as people spent more time at home early in the pandemic. But on the supply side, a shortage of dockworkers and truck drivers has meant delays in offloading ship containers and getting their contents to distributors. This results in fewer ships and cargo containers available to transport goods from overseas. The supply/demand imbalance has led to increased costs, according to Joe Taylor, Rikon’s Vice President. “Freight costs have gone up 1000% over the past six months. This could continue for another 6-12 months.”
