وش تسوي لو تأخر المورد في توصيل البضاعة

Sahl Monday,07 Jul 2025

In the world of e-commerce, especially in the Saudi market, suppliers are the first link in your store's success.
But sometimes things don't go as planned, and there are delays in delivery from the supplier, whether local or international.
This delay can cause you many problems: product shortages, delayed delivery of orders to customers, strain on your reputation, and even financial losses.
What's the solution? Should you stop selling? Get your money back? Or just wait it out?
In this blog, we'll give you practical and clear steps to help you deal with supplier delays with minimal losses.
1. Communicate directly and quickly with the supplier
The first thing you should do: Pick up the phone and contact the supplier directly.
Ask them directly:
• What's the reason for the delay?
• How long is the expected arrival time for the goods?
• Are there alternatives they can send temporarily?
In some cases, they have an alternative solution that they won't offer unless you request it.
2. Don't wait too long... Inform your customers
If any products are affected by the delay, inform your customers clearly.
A simple message on the product page or a notice on the website that says, for example:
"Please note: Delivery of this product may take an additional 5-7 business days due to supplier delays."
Honesty with customers builds trust and reduces complaints or cancellations.
3. Activate a temporary "pre-order" policy
If a product is in high demand, don't stop selling it.
Activate the "pre-order" option and let customers know that the product will be available by a certain date.
This method maintains your sales and keeps customers waiting instead of going to your competitors.
4. Prepare smart alternative products
Review your inventory and see if there are similar products you can promote temporarily.
For example: If you sell school bags and your supplier is late, offer a promotion on other models you have in stock.
This method reduces losses and directs customers to existing solutions.
5. Use the situation as an opportunity to strengthen the supplier relationship.
Instead of straining the relationship, use it as an opportunity for understanding.
Ask your supplier for a small compensation, such as a discount on the next shipment or covering part of the delay cost.
Some suppliers are willing to help if they see you as a serious, long-term partner.
6. Update your store's inventory and alert system.
If you're constantly surprised by product shortages, your inventory alert system needs updating.
Install a system that sends you an alert 10 or 15 days before your inventory runs out.
This way, you can order from your supplier well in advance and avoid future delays.
7. Consider diversifying your suppliers.
Relying on a single supplier is risky.
If you only work with one supplier, try to open a communication channel with a second or even a third, even if it's a little more expensive.
In times of crisis, an alternative supplier can save you.
8. Request partial shipments instead of full shipments.
In some cases, your supplier may be able to send you part of the order now, and the rest later.
This move helps you provide the most important products to your customers and continue sales without a complete shutdown.
Suppliers' delays in delivering goods are a frustrating problem for any e-commerce store owner, but it's not the end of the world.
With clear communication, smart planning, and proactive inventory management, you can avoid a lot of damage.
The Saudi market is full of opportunities, but you must be prepared for the challenges.
Try to implement these steps today and always have backup plans to keep your business running no matter how circumstances change.