Preventing Export Disruption After a Storm
by Selma Canas | November 4, 2024
Storms can cause significant disruptions to supply chains, particularly for businesses involved in exports. From damaged infrastructure to labor shortages, the challenges can be overwhelming. Here are some practical tips to help you minimize export disruptions and ensure a smooth recovery, along with specific examples and resources.
1. Assess the Damage and Develop a Contingency Plan
- Conduct a thorough assessment: use a damage assessment checklist or consult with local disaster recovery experts to identify the extent of the damage to your facilities, equipment, and transportation infrastructure.
- Prioritize repairs: focus on repairs that are essential for restoring operations, such as repairing roofs, clearing debris, or restoring power.
- Develop a contingency plan: create a detailed plan outlining alternative routes, suppliers, and transportation options. For example, if your primary shipping port is damaged, explore alternative ports or consider air freight as a temporary solution.
2. Communicate Proactively with Customers and Suppliers
- Keep customers informed: use email, phone calls, or social media to update customers about the impact of the storm and provide estimated delivery dates. You might send an email to customers stating that due to the storm, shipments will be delayed by 2-3 days.
- Maintain open communication with suppliers: stay in touch with your suppliers to understand their situation and coordinate efforts to minimize disruptions. For example, you might negotiate extended payment terms or explore alternative sourcing options if your primary supplier is affected.
3. Leverage Technology for Remote Work and Communication
- Utilize cloud-based tools: employ cloud-based software like Google Workspace or Microsoft 365 to enable remote work and communication.
- Invest in communication systems: ensure that your communication systems, including phones and internet, are reliable and can handle increased demand. Consider investing in backup communication systems or generators.
- Consider backup power sources: have backup power sources in place, such as generators or solar panels, to maintain connectivity during power outages.
4. Secure Necessary Permits and Authorizations
- Gather required documentation: obtain any necessary permits or authorizations from government agencies, such as building permits or environmental permits, to resume operations.
- Seek assistance from local authorities: if you encounter any difficulties, reach out to local authorities, such as the Small Business Administration (SBA) or the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), for guidance and support.
5. Protect Your Goods and Facilities
- Implement security measures: take steps to protect your goods and facilities from theft or vandalism, such as installing security cameras or hiring security guards.
- Consider temporary storage: if your warehouse is damaged, explore temporary storage options, such as renting a warehouse space or storing goods in a secure location.
- Review insurance coverage: review your insurance policies to ensure that you are adequately covered for storm-related damages and losses.
6. Consider Government Assistance Programs
- Research available programs: explore government assistance programs, such as the SBA’s Disaster Loan Program, FEMA’s Individual Assistance Program, and the Florida Emergency Bridge Loan Program, that can help businesses recover from disasters.
- Apply for loans or grants: if eligible, apply for loans or grants to cover the costs of repairs, rebuilding, or working capital.
- Seek tax relief: investigate potential tax relief measures, such as tax deductions or credits, that may be available.
7. Learn from the Experience and Prepare for Future Storms
- Conduct a post-storm analysis: review your response to the storm and identify areas for improvement.
- Update your contingency plan: revise your contingency plan based on the lessons learned.
- Invest in preparedness: implement measures to enhance your resilience to future storms, such as installing storm shutters or elevating equipment.
Resources
Below are a couple of resources that can be used when your business is faced with a storm:
- Florida SBDC at USF: https://sbdctampabay.com/business-continuity-disaster-preparedness/
- Florida Commerce: https://floridajobs.org/floridadisaster.biz/recover-2/sbeb-loan
- Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA): https://www.fema.gov/
- Small Business Administration (SBA): https://www.sba.gov/
- U.S. Department of Commerce: https://www.commerce.gov/
- American Red Cross: https://www.redcross.org/
By following these guidelines and utilizing the resources provided, you can effectively minimize the impact of storms on your export operations and ensure a swift recovery.
Selma Canas, CGBP
Canas, Consultants, International Consultants 2, TampaNASBITE Certified Global Business Professional (CGBP), Florida SBDC at USF, Tampa
Specialties: International Trade, Export Marketing Plans, Market Research, Digital Marketing
As an international trade specialist at the Florida SBDC at University of South Florida, Selma Canas is responsible for guiding small businesses through the complexities of the international trade process through one-on-one consulting, training and resources. Canas is a NASBITE International Certified Global Business Professional (CGBP) and teaches courses on international trade basics and market research at the Florida SBDC at USF. For export-ready companies, she develops Export Marketing Plans in partnership with SelectFlorida. She has developed more than 40 plans during the past eight years and participated in trade missions to Brazil, Chile, Canada, the Dominican Republic, and Panama.