Get on the Wait List: Supply chain issues causing tag order delays

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in the April edition of ABP Magazine. Since then, Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has stated its aware of ongoing tag supply challenges, and is working closely to monitor the issue. CFIA says there are sufficient tag supplies available, but producers may need to use an alternate source/dealer or an alternate approved tag.

Supply chain issues are affecting many products, including livestock identification devices. Shortage of raw material and staff absenteeism at manufacturing plants are now creating some noticeable delays. CDMV (CCIA’s distributor) is receiving some shipments periodically, but as the busy calving season is upon us, demand is exceeding availability for some products.

It is important to remember to place your order on the CCIA Webstore even if your selected products show as ‘Back Order.” By placing your order, you secure your priority in the queue, and it will be filled as soon as there is availability. Or you may want to consider another approved tag that is in stock right now. Consult the CCIA Tag catalogue for alternative options. The Tag Catalogue can be found on the CCIA website (canadaid.ca) under the menu tab, Tags & Technology.

Tag and Tag Accessories Catalogue

The tag supply situation has not improved to the level we anticipated. The extra inventory we put in place last fall to offset production interruptions has now been used. All manufacturers are struggling with accessing raw materials and manpower. However, enough supplies of approved beef tags are trickling in weekly to offer some options to maintain compliance if animals need to be transported at this time of year.

Also, please note to ensure fair distribution, some products are subject to a weekly purchase limitation for an undetermined period, effective immediately. Unfortunately, this is completely out of CCIA’s control. The message remains the same as indicated in January, i.e., it is important to place orders even if products show as “Back Order.” By placing an order, producers secure their spot in the queue and will be supplied as soon as there is availability.”

---

This article was first published in Volume 2 Issue 2 of ABP Magazine (April 2022). Watch for more digital content from the magazine on ABP Daily.