12/18/2020
A message from snap on. Thank you to the customers that are understanding. I try to get everything you need or order in a timely manner but your patience is/will be much appreciated.
UPS® Delivery Disruption
For UPS®, the holiday season is always a peak time for shipments where delivery service levels are not guaranteed. In addition, the pandemic has increased online purchases in the retail marketplace, resulting in UPS experiencing record-breaking package volume. Snap-on Franchisees have been experiencing delivery delays due to UPS system constraints. On top of these factors, UPS® will play a critical role in Operation Warp Speed, a national priority, to distribute the COVID-19 vaccine and associated medical supplies and PPE. To manage their system capacity, UPS® has established limits on the number of packages they will accept into their shipping network from larger shippers, including Snap-on®. If limitations are exceeded, shippers are subject to UPS® potentially not picking up packages from their Distribution Centers. Based on our recent shipment trends, Snap-on is currently exceeding the UPS® assigned package volume limitations.
To reduce our package volume into the UPS® network, we are taking several steps. Effective immediately, we are increasing our maximum package weights (still below OSHA® limits) and attempting to get more items into each box. Additionally, we are temporarily suspending the “Ship from any DC” process for stock orders which typically have only 1-2 SKUs in each package. This is the process that automatically moves orders to another Distribution Center when an item is not available in primary DC.
All Rush orders will continue to utilize “Ship from any DC” process and be moved to DCs with available inventory, recognizing they will be processed but still subject to UPS delivery delays.
We will continue to monitor the situation and inform you of any changes to our shipping protocols. UPS® has indicated that we may continue to experience capacity limitations into the New Year due to Operation Warp Speed. UPS® has not shared specific details on their involvement, but has advised of impact to their shipping capacity.
We apologize for the disruption and appreciate your patience as we navigate these challenges.