The Ship Has Sailed
What happens if Brown goes on strike?
When you need a sign, banner, or window graphic, and you need it fast, we’ll do everything in our power to get it to you ASAP. But some things are just out of our control, like tornados, other acts of God, and the potential for a shipping strike.
So as the UPS contract expiration date looms ever closer, we thought we’d share a little bit of what’s happening, what to expect, and what we plan to do in the event of a UPS shutdown.
How’d we get here?
Over 300,000 unionized UPS workers are negotiating for higher pay and better working conditions, among other things. While it’s possible the Teamsters could reach an agreement with the higher-ups at UPS, it’s perhaps more likely that they won’t, which would lead to a strike beginning August 1.
What does that mean for shipping?
UPS bears a huge part of the shipping market, second only to the USPS, so a strike will definitely mean a disruption. Expect your packages to arrive later—and take longer to return—even if you’re ordering Prime two-day shipping.
What’s our plan?
SBT primarily works with UPS, but we can also ship with FedEx. We plan to rely on FedEx for our shipping as needed, but remember: All other carriers will feel the loss of UPS shipping. Even if you’re sending something through USPS, FedEx, or DHL, expect to see slowed shipping times as those companies shoulder the increase in packages.
And while we are well-stocked with the materials we need to make fantastic signs (by tomorrow), it’s possible some items will take longer to receive than normal, depending on if/how long a strike goes on.
How can you prepare for a strike?
Our best advice to you is this: Build in lots of extra time on your projects and orders. Whether you’re ordering posters or back-to-school outfits, give yourself plenty of breathing room so you don’t end up pacing the front porch waiting for a package.
