Managing order spikes before Tet: A guide for D2C brands and sellers

December 25, 2024
Managing order spikes before Tet: A guide for D2C brands and sellers

Tet, or Lunar New Year, is one of the busiest times for brands and sellers in Vietnam and across Asia. Consumer spending soars as people shop for holiday essentials, gifts, and festive treats. For D2C (Direct-to-Consumer) businesses, this period offers enormous sales opportunities but also presents significant challenges due to demand surges, tight timelines, and shifting consumer preferences.

 

Here’s how to prepare for and manage Tet-related order spikes effectively, leveraging technology and automation.

 

 

Challenges for D2C brands during Tet

 

Rising demand: Tet drives a surge in orders as consumers stock up on practical and festive goods. Order volumes can increase by up to 25%, leaving many brands scrambling to keep up.

 

Compressed timelines: Customers expect faster shipping, while factories and logistics providers race against the clock before closures. Delays in deliveries can lead to unhappy customers.

 

Changing trends: Today’s consumers value practical, affordable, and high-quality products. Sellers must be agile in adjusting inventory and promotional strategies to meet evolving preferences.

 

 

Why automation is a game-changer

 

Automation offers a scalable, efficient way for D2C brands to handle Tet’s demand spike while ensuring exceptional customer experiences. By streamlining operations, reducing errors, and improving speed, automation enables businesses to stay competitive during the busiest shopping season.

 

Key Benefits of Automation for D2C Brands:

 

  • Faster Order Fulfillment: Automated order management systems ensure faster processing, reducing delays even during peak periods.

  • Real-Time Inventory Tracking: Warehouse management systems (WMS) provide accurate stock updates, ensuring popular items are replenished promptly.

  • Optimized Shipping: Transportation tools suggest the fastest delivery routes, even in congested urban areas.

  • Cost Efficiency: Automation reduces manual errors, saving time and money.

 

 

Steps to Prepare Your D2C Operations for Tet

 

1. Assess Your Current Workflow

 

Evaluate your operations to identify bottlenecks. Are delays occurring in order processing, inventory management, or shipping? Use metrics like average fulfillment time and order accuracy to pinpoint areas for improvement.

 

2. Choose the Right Automation Tools

 

Select tools tailored to your business needs. Consider:

 

  • Order Management Systems (OMS): Sync your e-commerce platform with fulfillment processes for seamless order handling.
  • Warehouse Management Systems (WMS): Track inventory, reduce stockouts, and prioritize fast-moving items.
  • Customer Communication Tools: Automate updates on order status and delivery timelines to keep customers informed.

 

For instance, a local D2C brand using integrated WMS and OMS saw a 30% reduction in delays and successfully managed 20% more orders during the previous Tet season.

 

3. Test Your Systems in Advance

 

Simulate high-order volumes before Tet to ensure your systems can handle the surge. Test workflows like inventory updates and order fulfillment to identify potential issues early.

 

4. Train Your Team

 

Automation tools are only as effective as the people using them. Provide hands-on training and create quick reference guides to help employees navigate new systems confidently. Designate key team members to handle troubleshooting during the peak season.

 

5. Monitor Performance in Real Time

 

Track metrics such as fulfillment times, delivery success rates, and system errors. Use this data to make real-time adjustments—whether it’s rerouting deliveries or restocking high-demand items.

 

6. Plan for Post-Tet Adjustments

 

After Tet, demand often drops sharply. Use this time to review performance data, optimize inventory levels, and refine your systems for the next peak period.

 

 

Why Investing in Automation Matters

 

Automation is more than just a tool for managing seasonal spikes; it’s a long-term strategy for growth and efficiency.

 

  • Higher Customer Satisfaction: On-time deliveries and accurate inventory ensure a positive shopping experience, fostering loyalty.
  • Scalability: Easily adapt to future demand surges without overextending resources.
  • Cost Savings: Reduced manual errors and optimized processes translate to lower operational costs.

 

Tet is a prime opportunity for D2C brands to maximize sales and build lasting customer relationships. By adopting automation, you can turn challenges into advantages, ensuring smooth operations and happy customers during the busiest time of the year—and beyond.

 

Ready to prepare your business for Tet? Contact us today to learn how automation can transform your operations for the holiday season and beyond.