Updates on East Coast Port Strike and Its Impact on IVF Supplies
Latest Updates
[10.2.2024] As new information becomes available, we will update this section to keep you informed about the ongoing situation and how it may affect product availability.
Overview
Nearly 50,000 members of the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) are currently on strike against the nation’s East and Gulf Coast ports. Dockworkers at West Coast ports are represented by a different union and are not on strike. However, the disruption on the East Coast may lead to shipments being rerouted to the West Coast, potentially causing congestion and delays there as well.
The majority of major IVF supplies used in your labs are manufactured in various countries, including Denmark, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Italy, France, and Spain. All of these products could be impacted by the East Coast port shutdown. Freight bound for the East Coast may be redirected to the West Coast, adding extra sailing time and straining the capacity of West Coast ports.
Our Commitment and Expertise
We want to assure you that this situation is different from the supply chain issues experienced during COVID-19. IVF Store has extensive expertise in dealing with supply chain challenges, and we have been proactively working with our manufacturers to mitigate potential impacts. We do not expect a major shortage to occur unless the strike lasts longer than one month. After one month, it may take 6-9 months to clear stock from the ports, and with only 3-6 months of goods in most supplier warehouses, more significant impacts could occur.
Product Availability and Potential Shortages
• Falcon Products: We have a 3- to 12-month supply of most dishes and tubes. However, SKU 357575 is produced outside the U.S. and is already on backorder. Our remaining stock is expected to last for approximately two weeks. We recommend checking with your andrology labs to ensure they have sufficient stock on hand.
• Needles: While BD needles are produced in the U.S. and will not be affected, many needles and syringes used in the U.S. are already on backorder. Most alternative items are made in China. Although BD products may remain available, similar MEA-tested alternatives are also available.
• Dishes: Most dishes are made in North America, with some exceptions produced in China or Europe. BIRR is an example of a European company with whom IVF Store has a great relationship. They manufacture very high-quality and great-value IVF products, including dishes, and we are able to fly in products if needed.
• Vitrification Devices and Cryotubes: Many of these items are manufactured outside the U.S. Cryolocks are the only cryo vitrification devices made domestically, and no delays are expected for this item.
If you can provide the exact SKUs you use, we can offer a detailed product-by-product analysis. Please note that Globe Scientific and certain Nunc items are not expected to be significantly impacted.
Stay Informed
We will be updating this blog page regularly with the latest information regarding the strike and its impact on product availability. Please check back often to stay informed.
Moving Forward
Our goal from day one has been to provide you with quality products and services, fulfilling our commitment to be your comprehensive IVF supplier. We take this responsibility very seriously and are dedicated to minimizing any potential disruptions.
Contact Us
Thank you for your loyalty as a long-time customer of IVF Store. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or need further assistance.
