There’s no reason to be panic-buying toilet paper right now. Really.
Yes, the dockworkers strike up and down the East Coast really does have ships backed up, waiting to dock and unload their cargo. But those ships are full of things like auto parts and produce. They’re not full of toilet paper and other paper products.
Yet, that hasn’t stopped what seems like a pandemic-era buying spree.
Local 4′s Hank Winchester has the reasons why you shouldn’t be so concerned:
- 90% of the toilet paper that’s on store shelves is made in the U.S.
- There are no reported manufacturing or delivery delays.
- The port strike could affect perishable items like bananas, seafood, and auto parts (but not toilet paper).
- Some stores, like Kroger, are already limiting the amount of toilet paper customers can buy.
- There is no reason to buy toilet paper in bulk.
This began when the union representing about 45,000 dockworkers went on strike for the first time since 1977. They are demanding higher wages and a total ban on the automation of cranes, gates, and container-moving trucks.
If the strike is resolved within a few weeks, you probably won’t notice any significant shortages or price hikes, according to the Associated Press. If a work stoppage lasts for more than a month, then you might notice, but it depends on what you’re shopping for.
Many retailers like Costco and Target said they shipped in holiday items months ago to be prepared for any shipping delays. The Associated Press reported that prices on everything from fruits and vegetables to cars might increase, at least temporarily, if the strike continues.
The Associated Press reports that ports affected by the shutdown include Baltimore and Brunswick, Georgia, the top two busiest auto ports; Philadelphia, which gives priority to fruits and vegetables; and New Orleans, which handles coffee, various chemicals, and wood products.
Take a deep breath, and if you’re still worried about your toilet paper, maybe consider buying a bidet. It’ll change your life.
---> Read more: The US could see shortages and higher retail prices if a dockworkers strike drags on