Congestion, Delays, and Strikes

Terminal workers at West Coast ports resumed the daytime shifts yesterday after suspending work on Monday, but more vessels are skipping sailings or delaying arrivals due to the seemingly never-ending congestion. Many of our members are looking at re-routing through the Gulf and East Coast ports. Should you need contingency planning, please contact WSSA or your Albatrans sales representative. Tomorrow, there are marches scheduled in San Pedro and Tacoma in support of the ILWU, and we do not see any positive developments in the negotiation process.

On the East Coast, post-holiday congestion is still plaguing some ports, including New York and Norfolk. We are getting reports of delays in pick-ups and rail movements, but not nearly to the extent that the West Coast is experiencing.

Overseas, the French trucker's strike continues today. The Bruges' platform is still being blocked by truckers and only cars are allowed access. No trucks or containers are allowed to get in or out. Protestors even decided to block the access of a second inland depot in Bordeaux area, which has further inhibited traffic flow.

We will continue to keep you informed of any developments in these situations.