--- title: 4 Biggest Supply Chain Problems in 2022 & How To Work Around description: Dealing with supply chain problems due to the Covid-19 pandemic? Read on to find out the biggest supple chain problems of 2022 and how to work around them. image: https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/hubfs/four-of-the-biggest-supply-chain-problems-of-2022-and-how-to-work-around-them.jpg --- -   [01285 704470](tel:01285704470) - [ jtindley@lpcinternational.com](mailto:jtindley@lpcinternational.com) [![LPC logo](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/hs-fs/hubfs/LPC%20logo.webp?width=473&height=64&name=LPC%20logo.webp "LPC logo")](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/) [![LPC logo](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/hs-fs/hubfs/LPC%20logo.webp?width=473&height=64&name=LPC%20logo.webp "LPC logo")](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/) - [Home](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk) - About - [Why LPC](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/why-lpc) - [Clients & Business Sectors](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/clients-and-business-sectors) - [The Team](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/the-team) - [Expert Witness & Logistics Dispute Resolution](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/expert-witness) - [SME Business Support](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/sme-business-support) - [Healthcheck & Audit](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/book-a-health-check) - Services - **Supply Chain** - [Strategy](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/supply-chain-strategy-consulting/) - [Network Design](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/network-design) - [Inventory Management](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/inventory-management) - [Outsourcing](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/outsourcing) - **Warehousing** - [Warehouse Design](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/warehouse-design-and-planning) - [Warehouse Consulting](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/warehouse-improvements-and-engineering) - [Systems & Processes](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/systems-and-processes) - [Warehouse Productivity Consultants](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/warehouse-productivity) - [Warehouse Modelling & Simulation](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/modelling-and-simulation) - **Project Implementation** - [Equipment Procurement](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/equipment) - [Procurement](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/procurement) - [Project Management Support](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/project-management) - **Automation & Robotics** - [Warehouse Automation & Robotics](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/automation-and-robotics) - [Is Warehouse Automation For You?](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/warehouse-automation-for-you) - Resources - [Case Studies](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/case-studies) - [Downloads](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/downloads) - [Blogs](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/blog) - [Storage Systems](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/equipment) [![Contact Us](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/2191642/interactive-199423175003.png)](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/hs/cta/wi/redirect?encryptedPayload=AVxigLLH0L4bRLWqE4SKSuVPX8drRqAKQn6pFrbIF0R4jlTxoap4JHKQivVKX%2FWHdcKG4vwnqLj6hVfOK%2FCXxgy42GVdZz8bVvAs1d8TXzFsGxHq9S2uCdlUk8oUI2e6JUprPZuCcTqevAp14aaonX5m9iJIbia5x7JeaAXkbtWLtsqIwz7ZiKUjoXWfOmyVlkY%3D&webInteractiveContentId=199423175003&portalId=2191642) [![Contact Us](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/2191642/interactive-199423175003.png)](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/hs/cta/wi/redirect?encryptedPayload=AVxigLLH0L4bRLWqE4SKSuVPX8drRqAKQn6pFrbIF0R4jlTxoap4JHKQivVKX%2FWHdcKG4vwnqLj6hVfOK%2FCXxgy42GVdZz8bVvAs1d8TXzFsGxHq9S2uCdlUk8oUI2e6JUprPZuCcTqevAp14aaonX5m9iJIbia5x7JeaAXkbtWLtsqIwz7ZiKUjoXWfOmyVlkY%3D&webInteractiveContentId=199423175003&portalId=2191642) [![Contact Us](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/2191642/interactive-199423175003.png)](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/hs/cta/wi/redirect?encryptedPayload=AVxigLLH0L4bRLWqE4SKSuVPX8drRqAKQn6pFrbIF0R4jlTxoap4JHKQivVKX%2FWHdcKG4vwnqLj6hVfOK%2FCXxgy42GVdZz8bVvAs1d8TXzFsGxHq9S2uCdlUk8oUI2e6JUprPZuCcTqevAp14aaonX5m9iJIbia5x7JeaAXkbtWLtsqIwz7ZiKUjoXWfOmyVlkY%3D&webInteractiveContentId=199423175003&portalId=2191642) More results - [Home](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk) - About - [Why LPC](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/why-lpc) - [Clients & Business Sectors](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/clients-and-business-sectors) - [The Team](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/the-team) - [Expert Witness & Logistics Dispute Resolution](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/expert-witness) - [SME Business Support](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/sme-business-support) - Supply Chain - [Strategy](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/supply-chain-strategy-consulting/) - [Network Design](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/network-design) - [Inventory Management](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/inventory-management) - [Outsourcing](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/outsourcing) - Warehousing - [Warehouse Design](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/warehouse-design-and-planning) - [Warehouse Consulting](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/warehouse-improvements-and-engineering) - [Systems & Processes](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/systems-and-processes) - [Warehouse Productivity Consultants](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/warehouse-productivity) - [Warehouse Modelling & Simulation](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/modelling-and-simulation) - Project Implementation - [Equipment Procurement](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/equipment) - [Equipment Procurement](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/procurement) - [Project Management Support](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/project-management) - Automation & Robotics - [Warehouse Automation & Robotics](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/automation-and-robotics) - [Is Warehouse Automation For You?](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/warehouse-automation-for-you) - Resources - [Case Studies](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/case-studies) - [Downloads](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/downloads) - [Blogs](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/blog) - [Storage Systems](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/equipment) [![Contact Us](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/2191642/interactive-199423175003.png)](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/hs/cta/wi/redirect?encryptedPayload=AVxigLLH0L4bRLWqE4SKSuVPX8drRqAKQn6pFrbIF0R4jlTxoap4JHKQivVKX%2FWHdcKG4vwnqLj6hVfOK%2FCXxgy42GVdZz8bVvAs1d8TXzFsGxHq9S2uCdlUk8oUI2e6JUprPZuCcTqevAp14aaonX5m9iJIbia5x7JeaAXkbtWLtsqIwz7ZiKUjoXWfOmyVlkY%3D&webInteractiveContentId=199423175003&portalId=2191642) [01285 704470](tel:01285704470) [jtindley@lpcinternational.com](mailto:jtindley@lpcinternational.com) [Supply Chain Strategy](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/blog/topic/supply-chain-strategy) # 4 Of The Biggest Supply Chain Problems of 2022 And How To Work Around Them by [Jason Tindley](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/blog/author/jason-tindley) 2 min read 5 Dec 2022, 10:30:00 ![four-of-the-biggest-supply-chain-problems-of-2022-and-how-to-work-around-them](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/hs-fs/hubfs/four-of-the-biggest-supply-chain-problems-of-2022-and-how-to-work-around-them.jpg?width=640&height=427&name=four-of-the-biggest-supply-chain-problems-of-2022-and-how-to-work-around-them.jpg)2020 was a pivotal year for global [supply chains](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/supply-chain-strategy-consulting/) as Covid-19 wreaked havoc on virtually all aspects of society but, while the shadows of the pandemic linger, other problems have surfaced which continue to present challenges for supply chain managers. In this article, we discuss some of the main supply chain problems and explain how, at LPC International, we can help you to overcome these. ## [![Still Have Questions? Speak To Our Team Today!](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/2191642/3295e64c-22c9-4b4d-8e71-1575c750709a.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/2191642/3295e64c-22c9-4b4d-8e71-1575c750709a) ## 1) **Material Shortages** Even before the pandemic, concerns existed regarding the availability of some raw materials. A continued shortage is affecting many manufacturers, a situation made worse by the war in Europe which has severed supply routes for commodities from Ukraine and the Russian Federation. A [survey](https://www.forconstructionpros.com/business/article/21452407/institute-for-supply-management-ism-manufacturers-report-longest-supplier-lead-time-since-1987) by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM) described ‘record long lead times, wide-scale shortages of critical basic materials, \[and\] rising commodity prices’. ## 2) **Labour Shortages** Many companies are experiencing recruitment issues and can’t find labour and/or people with the right skill sets. The shortage of labour has been caused by the movement of workers and decline in the size of the working population and the unattractiveness of many jobs. This is leading to the push to introduce more automation and robotics into the workplace. 3\) **Shipping – Freight Costs And Port Congestion** Lack of capacity in the right place has caused surges in freight costs, a situation not helped by congestion at ports. Ships that are unable to load or unload their cargo – a persistent problem that port owners are trying to solve – are a major contributing factor to ongoing supply chain problems worldwide. A delay in one country can have significant repercussions in others, even if their own ports are operating fluidly, so businesses are often unable to offer clearly defined lead times for products sourced from overseas. ## 4) Inaccurate Demand Forecasting Demand forecasting is key to effective supply chains as it enable businesses to predict consumer purchasing habits. Accurate forecasting relies, in part, on sales data from previous years; however, due to unpredictable fluctuations in demand during the pandemic, much recent data unreliable. Supply chain managers are having to consider other methods of demand forecasting and to continually refine their predictions to achieve an accurate outlook. ## **How Working With LPC Can Deliver Effective Supply Chain Solutions** LPC International offer expert [consultancy services](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/supply-chain-strategy-consulting/) that improve supply chain management so that it is flexible and adaptive to changing circumstances. Our consultancy service considers all the key components in the supply chain holistically, including: - Location and cost of manufacturing - Manufacture lead time - Delivery lead time - Strategic location of stock - Stockholding requirement - Order fulfilment costs We can work closely with you to assess the impact of the most significant market issues, through structured investigation, data analysis, and computer modelling. This will illuminate pinch points in your [supply chains](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/supply-chain-consultants-can-better-warehouse-automation-give-you-greater-supply-chain-flexibility) and let you implement a plan that improves visibility, formulates contingency strategies, and improves demand forecasting – all designed to improve your profits and cut your costs. ## **Contact LPC International To Find Out More** To enquire about our services and find out how we can help you to optimise your supply chain and overcome the current problems, please call us today on 01285 640038. [![Warehouse Management Systems Guide](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/2191642/9434c209-1ad1-4c88-bc58-6272e0c7a188.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/2191642/9434c209-1ad1-4c88-bc58-6272e0c7a188) Image Source: [Pexels](https://www.pexels.com/photo/business-cargo-cargo-container-city-262353/) Share this [Share on X](https://x.com/intent/post?url=https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/blog/supply-chain-problems-of-this-year&text=4+Biggest+Supply+Chain+Problems+in+2022+%26amp%3B+How+To+Work+Around) [Share on Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/blog/supply-chain-problems-of-this-year&t=4+Biggest+Supply+Chain+Problems+in+2022+%26amp%3B+How+To+Work+Around) [Share on LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/blog/supply-chain-problems-of-this-year&t=4+Biggest+Supply+Chain+Problems+in+2022+%26amp%3B+How+To+Work+Around) Previous story [← Why You Need A Dedicated WMS – Not Just An ERP](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/blog/why-you-need-a-dedicated-wms) Next story [5 Keys To Effective Supply Chain Management →](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/blog/effective-supply-chain-management) ## You May Also Like These Related Stories [Strategies for Managing Supply Chain Disruption](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/blog/managing-supply-chain-disruption) ![](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/hubfs/Managing-Supply-Chain-Disruption-1.jpg) [Tips](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/blog/topic/tips) ### Strategies for Managing Supply Chain Disruption 7 Dec 2021, 12:00:00 4 min read [Understanding Supply Chain Management](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/blog/understanding-supply-chain-management) ![Understanding Supply Chain Management](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/hubfs/Understanding%20Supply%20Chain%20Management.jpg) [Supply Chain Strategy](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/blog/topic/supply-chain-strategy) ### Understanding Supply Chain Management 12 Apr 2019, 10:00:00 2 min read [How A Modern Warehouse Redesign Can Boost You Profits And Facilitate Your Growth Plans](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/blog/warehouse-redesign-boosts-profits) ![](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/hubfs/joey-kyber-45FJgZMXCK8-unsplash.jpg) [Warehouse Productivity](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/blog/topic/warehouse-productivity) ### How A Modern Warehouse Redesign Can Boost You Profits And Facilitate Your Growth Plans 21 Sept 2020, 11:41:00 2 min read ### Get Email Notifications ### **Logistics Planning Consultants** VAT Number: 667-0474-17 Company Number: 03184658 [Join us on Slack](https://www.facebook.com/LPC-International-1598261453798554) [Browse our GitHub projects](https://www.linkedin.com/company/logistics-planning-consultants-international) [Browse our GitHub projects](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuWye1wWnhhl3hxTqXYxyQw) About - [Why LPC](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/why-lpc) - [Clients & Sectors](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/clients-and-business-sectors) - [The Team](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/the-team) - [SME Business Support](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/sme-business-support) Resources - [Blog](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/blog) - [Downloads](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/downloads) - [Case Studies](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/case-studies-new-website) - [Storage Systems](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/equipment) Quick Links - [Contact Us](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/contact) - [Book A Health Check](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/book-a-health-check) - [Book A Meeting](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/talk-to-an-expert) Copyright © 2026 Logistics Planning Consultants - [Terms](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/terms-conditions) - [Privacy](https://blog.lpcinternational.co.uk/privacy) - [Cookies](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/cookie-policy) ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@type" : "LocalBusiness", "address" : { "@type" : "PostalAddress", "addressCountry" : "UK", "addressLocality" : "Cirencester", "addressRegion" : "Gloucestershire", "postalCode" : "GL7 2PP", "streetAddress" : "57 Dyer St" }, "alternateName" : "LPC International", "contactPoint" : { "@type" : "ContactPoint", "areaServed" : "GB", "availableLanguage" : "en", "contactType" : "customer service", "telephone" : "+44 0128 564 0038" }, "geo" : { "@type" : "GeoCoordinates", "latitude" : 51.7157, "longitude" : -1.9676 }, "image" : "https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/hubfs/LPC%20Banner.webp", "logo" : "https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/hs-fs/hubfs/LPC%20logo.webp", "name" : "LPC International Ltd", "openingHours" : [ "Mo-Fr 09:00-17:30", "Sa Closed", "Su Closed" ], "priceRange" : "£", "sameAs" : [ "https://www.facebook.com/people/LPC-International/100063715956023/#", "https://x.com/lpcint", "https://www.linkedin.com/company/logistics-planning-consultants-international", "https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuWye1wWnhhl3hxTqXYxyQw" ], "telephone" : "0128 570 8211", "url" : "https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/" } ``` ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Jason Tindley", "url" : "https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/blog/author/jason-tindley" }, "dateModified" : "2024-10-28", "datePublished" : "2022-12-05", "description" : "Dealing with supply chain problems due to the Covid-19 pandemic? Read on to find out the biggest supple chain problems of 2022 and how to work around them.", "headline" : "4 Biggest Supply Chain Problems in 2022 & How To Work Around", "image" : "https://2191642.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/2191642/four-of-the-biggest-supply-chain-problems-of-2022-and-how-to-work-around-them.jpg", "mainEntityOfPage" : { "@id" : "https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/blog/supply-chain-problems-of-this-year", "@type" : "WebPage" }, "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/hs-fs/hubfs/LPC%20logo.webp" }, "name" : "LPC International Ltd" } } ```