In an effort to keep our clients informed about the ongoing labor negotiations between the United States Maritime Alliance, Ltd. (USMX) and the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA), we want to apprise you about the current situation and how to avoid major possible repercussions for your cargos.
With ILA aim of improving workers’ wages and continued protections against automation/new technology in its terminals, the Association President has informed that, if an agreement with USMX is not reached by October 1st of current year, both the Atlantic and Gulf Coast ports will go on strike.
Ports affected by ILA strikes are primarily along the East Coast and Gulf Coast of the U.S. and include:
- New Orleans, Louisiana (Port of New Orleans)
- New York and New Jersey (Port of New York/New Jersey): One of the largest ports on the East Coast.
- Charleston, South Carolina (Port of Charleston)
- Savannah, Georgia (Port of Savannah)
- Norfolk, Virginia (Port of Virginia)
- Miami, Florida (Port of Miami)
- Houston, Texas (Port of Houston)
In order to mitigate any impact of the strike on your business operations, it is recommended to diversify shipping routes, use alternate ports possible not affected like Los Angeles/Long Beach, work with different shipping lines and proactively inform your clients and suppliers about the potential delays or disruptions.
GCA team will maintain normal operations, providing our clients operational support and service backup!