IV Solution Allocation Explained
How do you get IV solutions in an allocation world?
What used to be a temporary supply chain issue has been a reoccurring issue over the 12+ years and does not appear to be going away anytime soon. The last position that McGuff wants to be in is one to tell you that we have to reduce your order amount.
What is allocation?
Allocation is where we try and spread the product across all customer accounts as supply does not meet demand.
You can tell what products are on allocation by the following badge on the product page:
Currently, McGuff, as well as all other wholesale distributors, are on a Manufacturer Allocation from B.Braun, where our orders of IV solutions are being significantly reduced. We are not told how much we are going to be reduced by or even when our expected delivery dates will be for any products. We order weekly, and the day on which we receive the product is never consistent.
We have tried everything in our power to increase our allocation of products with manufacturers like B. Braun and have run into roadblocks every step of the way.
The main solutions that are most affected by allocation are (always check the product page for the most up-to-date information):
Type - Manufacturer
Sterile Water - B. Braun
Lactated Ringers - B. Braun
Normal Saline - B. Braun
Partial Additive Bags - B. Braun
Dextrose - B. Braun
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Best Tips for Ordering IV Solutions
- Give us a call. Every one to two weeks.
- We receive our orders weekly/biweekly. We will have the most accurate information about what is in stock and product allocation availability.
- Ordering multiple brands and sizes.
- We have found an alternative supply of 0.9% Sodium Chloride (Normal Saline) bags in 250mL, 500mL, and 1,000 mL sizes. However, there can be a price differential, too. B. Braun bags but there is NO ALLOCATION with the alternative brand. You can buy full cases and as many as you need. The supply of these bags is good for now but is always subject to change.
*knock on wood*
We are dedicated to finding alternative suppliers for IV solutions that meet the quality attributes requested by our customers (DEHP-free, latex-free Free and PVC-free).
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Does McGuff Accept Backorders for Allocated Solutions?
Unfortunately, we do not. We would not be able to provide you with a semi-accurate timeline for receiving them and would not have a date on when we would be able to fill the order. The best way to order is to call us every week to two weeks, and we will see what we can send to you.
During these difficult times, McGuff is dedicated to ensuring we get all current customers something. We are tirelessly looking for alternative suppliers of solutions.
We appreciate your continued patience and trust in McGuff in the interim. We are doing our best to get you as much IV solution as possible.