Why Your Magnets Are Taking Longer to Arrive (and What We're Doing About It)

At Simple Signman, we know your projects can’t wait. Many of you have asked why certain permanent magnets — especially neodymium — are facing longer-than-usual delays. Here’s what’s really happening in China, and what we’re doing on our end to keep your supply flowing across Canada.

What’s Changing in China?

Since 2024, the Chinese government has imposed strict export controls on rare earth elements, the key materials used to manufacture high-performance magnets. In 2025, these regulations have tightened further:

• Every shipment now requires a special export license.

• Chinese suppliers must provide a detailed end-use certificate (including application type and specs).

• Approvals can take 4 to 8 weeks or more, even after the order is ready to ship.

This means that orders can get stuck waiting for export clearance, despite being fully manufactured and packed.

What Simple Signman Is Doing to Keep You Supplied

As a Canadian distributor, we don’t control what happens in Beijing. But we’re taking concrete steps to keep our shelves stocked — and your orders moving:

✅ 1. Proactive export planning

We work closely with our suppliers to prepare the necessary export documentation in advance, so approvals come faster once the goods are ready.

✅ 2. Strategic stock in Canada

We’re reinforcing inventory on our most popular products to serve our regular clients quickly, even if new stock is delayed at the border.

✅ 3. Alternative sourcing

We’re expanding our supplier network in South Korea, Japan and other stable regions, to offer dependable options beyond China.

✅ 4. Substitute grades when possible

If a specific magnetic grade is tied up in licensing delays, we’ll recommend a suitable alternative in local stock — when technically appropriate for your application.

How We Can Help You Right Now

• Regular clients: Let’s discuss a buffer stock or consignment program tailored to your usage.

• Custom orders: We’ll guide you through the end-use certification process as needed.

• New projects or prototyping: Ask us about “starter kits” in stock — ideal for urgent needs or sampling.

Weathering the Storm, Together

Global supply chains are turbulent — but our team is here to steer through it with you. With local expertise, international reach, and decades of client-focused service, we’re committed to keeping Canadian businesses supplied and supported.

Thank you for your patience, your understanding — and your continued trust.

Questions? Reach out to us anytime. At Simple Signman, you’ll always get a real person, right here in Canada.