It’s become normal that even small things don’t arrive quickly or aren’t available.
If you’ve already decided to buy, you can give the go-ahead right away.
But sometimes things come up unexpectedly, or you get sudden urges, right?
If you make a list ahead of time, you might be able to weather the storm a bit (*’ω’*)
I recently purchased a Sony α7 IV Body ILCE-7M4 Black α7M4
I decided to purchase this camera when it was announced overseas, so it arrived at my door at the regular price on the release date. However, currently it’s unavailable even at the Sony Store.
In modern times, rare items can only be obtained at inflated prices.
It’s really troubling, isn’t it?
The earlier you act on anything, the wider your options become.
Whether it’s shopping, eating, going to the hospital, or using the restroom…
If you think things through and decide on your choices in advance, things proceed very much in your favor.
Crude oil prices continue to surge.
This impact hits the motorcycle industry directly, so various shortages become very problematic.
For lubricants and such, if you work backward from your annual consumption and stockpile accordingly, your peace of mind will be high.
Prices are also trending upward from the new fiscal year, so it’s good to keep that in mind.
If announcements about availability and pricing come out around February and March, I suspect that concentrated orders will lead to even more items becoming scarce.
Will what used to be normal no longer be normal?
You have to constantly feel the current situation in your bones and adapt, or you’ll miss precious opportunities.
When a single part or lubricant isn’t available, substitutes or delays mean you can’t complete the job.
I think such situations will become more common.
Speaking from a motorcycle shop perspective, lubricants may require special attention.
*Imported items may be delayed even further.
• Engine oil
There are various manufacturers, so it should be safe, but if you have a preferred brand, it might be worth stockpiling several months to half a year’s worth.
• Fork oil
This has a small absolute supply to begin with, so if you have a favorite brand, it’s definitely wise to stockpile it. Imported items may carry even higher concern.
• Brake fluid
This doesn’t seem to be as worrying, but since it doesn’t take up much space, stockpiling it gives peace of mind.
I don’t think stockpiling for years makes sense, but what about preparing several months to half a year’s worth and then rolling that stock?
If you wait until your hand-held stock runs out to order, you might miss the window due to uncertain delivery dates or delays.
Even in a world with excellent distribution convenience, you can’t get what isn’t available.
You could end up wasting time and money on list price plus shipping.
Of course, without parts and materials, there’s nothing you can do.
Consumables and everyday items ( oil filters, gaskets, bolts and nuts ) should always be stockpiled and rolling stock made routine, and this way you can handle even harsh situations if they arise.
Even with a small OEM part order, I’m like, whoa! It happens.
“Manufacturer stock: ○ units”
I see this so often lately that it’s scary…
