Final answer:
Centralized shipping can lead to increased costs due to traffic congestion and supply chain disruptions, like strikes, which can halt operations across the network.
Step-by-step explanation:
Two disadvantages of centralized shipping and receiving are an increase in shipping costs due to congestion and the risk of supply chain interruptions. Shipping finished goods over congested street networks and/or jammed freeways can significantly increase costs and reduce profits because of delays and higher fuel expenses. This is especially problematic for centralized systems that rely on a single location for distribution. In addition, a centralized system can heighten the impact of supply chain disruptions, such as workers' strikes in critical parts of the supply chain. When relying on just-in-time delivery, a strike at one key supplier can halt the operations across the entire network, as seen with the General Motors example in mid-1990s.