Toy Shortages? Less Than 100 Days Until Christmas!

I was watching the “Today” show the other morning on NBC.  They had a segment that was a bit of an eye-opener.  They were talking about potential toy shortages and other consumer items for the Christmas Season.  I chuckled at first but after watching I figured it was time to get serious about what to get the kids and grandkids for the upcoming holidays.  There are less than 100 days till Christmas!

While there were no specifics of what was going to be in short supply, the case was made as to the possibilities.  Before Covid19 it took approximately 30 days for items to be shipped from China to arrive at US Ports.  Now, it takes at least twice as long.  Once the items arrive the next big issue is there isn’t enough labor to unload the ships and many containers are waiting much longer than usual to be unloaded.

What are we to do?  We certainly don’t want to be shut out on purchases for our loved ones and friends.  There were several good suggestions.

Shop and buy early!  While it wasn’t mentioned on the show, start shopping locally, NOW!  The local merchants need our support and it keeps the money close to home.  Once you exhaust all of your local shopping venues there certainly are other avenues.

We all know about Amazon!  There are so many more “online” stores to make your purchases.  Find deals “online” with apps like “Rakuten,” “SlickDeals,” “Honey,” “DealFinder,” CouponCabin” and more.  Your credit card company certainly has special deal offers with select merchants.  Use price-comparison tools and always ask for a price match!

So, in these wild and crazy times that we are living in, it’s not too early to start your holiday shopping.  It will help boost the economy and most of all hopefully you won’t be shut out looking for that special gift.  I know that my 6 grand-boys have something special that they want and I am starting to look now!

Happy Shopping!

Photo from Deposit Photos