Everyone is watching the ILWU caucus which begins today.
From JOC:
The caucus that begins on Monday could last several days. If the leadership believes a tentative contract can be signed, it would have to be ratified by a rank-and-file vote in the coming weeks. If agreement can’t be reached, negotiations could run into January and February assuming the parties take time off during the holidays, as they did during Thanksgiving.
Extending the negotiations into 2015 especially if accompanied by the slowdowns that the PMA has accused the union of engaging in would be costly for shipping lines, terminal operators and shippers and would further prompt shippers to seek routing alternatives on the East and Gulf coasts in 2015.
Read the entire article
Congestion Continues
Congestion at West Coast ports – particularly at the Los Angeles-Long Beach port complex, peaked at the height of holiday shipping season and continues. Growing volumes, combined with a lack of chassis at terminals. truck capacity issues, bigger ships, and slowdowns by International Longshore and Warehouse Union workers combined to create delays that continue to hover at 7-8 days of dwell time at terminals.
Other
The continuing congestion and delays affecting U.S. West Coast ports are reaching the point where it may leave the type of lasting negative impression. Cargo owners are now threatening to minimize their use of West Coast ports. This possible permanent cargo diversion is serious. Customer’s are also asking for options and solutions. Read more
Retailers Q4 could be affected by the West Coast slowdowns and several retailers have reported both third and fourth quarter earnings issues. Read more
If Superior Freight can assist with questions or concerns, please contact us at 800.298.4305 or superior@supfrt.com
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