Production and freight in China follow a yearly rhythm. Planning around it avoids missed launches.
Key periods
- Chinese New Year (January–February) — factories close for 2–4 weeks, and restarting takes longer while workers return.
- Peak shipping season (July–October) — higher freight rates and tight container space before the holidays.
- Golden Week (early October) — a week of national holidays.
How to plan
- Place orders for spring at least 8–10 weeks before Chinese New Year.
- Book holiday-season freight early.
- Confirm material purchasing before holidays.
- Keep safety stock for best-selling items.
