Potential Strike Could Add to Disruptions at LA-LB Ports

A potential labor disruption could add further strain to the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach. Around 250 union watchmen have announced their intention to strike beginning at 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time on Sunday, November 1. The Journal of Commerce has reported that there have been active talks to delay the strike until November 4, but no official announcement has been made. 

This potential labor dispute comes in the wake of record container volumes at the ports in September and October. Increased volumes, coupled with railcar shortages and inland delays, have led to a reported 35,000 containers waiting for trains at the ports. 

Both ports have experienced extended dwell times as a result of all these factors. Average dwell times for rail containers rose to 7.19 days in September, according to the Pacific Maritime Shipping Association, while containers transported by truck averaged 3.18 days.  We are currently seeing an average of 2-4 weeks for rail containers in October but have experienced longer waits in more extreme cases.  

We understand how frustrating these delays can be and want to assure you that we are working closely with our carriers and contacts at the ports to keep your cargo moving as efficiently as possible. We will continue to provide updates on the labor dispute as more information becomes available. 

If you have any further questions or concerns, please contact Scarbrough for assistance.