Logistics Hot Spot Update

Canada: Trouble on the border continues with the truck blockade by Canadians protesting COVID-19 restrictions has created a major blockage at the Ambassador Bridge connecting Windsor, Ontario to Detroit as well as shuttering a crossing in Coutts, Alberta. Prime Minister Trudeau is working vigorously to end the disruption and the White House is directly involved as well. We will keep you posted as the situation develops.

LA/Long Beach: Yet another extension of the container dwell fee has been published today, pushing the potential start date to February 18.   As reported, individual terminals are still imposing dwell fees with varying amounts.

Oakland: While the port of Oakland has instituted dwell fees, the port is currently experiencing severe congestion due to a combination of terminal issues with removal of cranes, and containers being moved into “closed” areas for extended periods of time. Storage charges are being waived for containers in closed areas.

US West Coast port omissions:  The schedule to the US West Coast ports continues to be a mess with omissions from multiple origins including South America, Oceania and Europe, with carriers omitting services to Oakland and/or Seattle on many strings. Should you need to discuss options for re-routing cargo, let us know.

Treasury Report on Competition: The report on competition in the markets for beer, wine, and spirits was published earlier this week. The report details challenges to the growth of small businesses and new entrants into the marketplace and also contains recommendations to better level the playing field for small businesses and new marketplace entrants. Should you want a full copy, please let us know.