A possible strike involving port security workers could disrupt container operations at the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach from 1 November. LEMAN is closely monitoring the situation and advises customers to prepare for potential delays.
Around 250 security watchmen represented by the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) Local 26 have threatened strike action amid ongoing contract negotiations.
The workers are employed at six container terminals across the Los Angeles and Long Beach port complex. While negotiations are still underway and no strike has been confirmed, the Pacific Maritime Association (PMA) has warned that other ILWU members may refuse to cross potential picket lines.
This could significantly affect vessel handling, container yard operations and terminal access at the affected facilities.
What could this mean for your shipments?
The potential disruption comes at a time when the Los Angeles and Long Beach ports are already experiencing congestion and extended rail container dwell times.
If a strike takes place, customers could experience:
- Delays in vessel loading and unloading
- Disruptions to container collection and delivery
- Longer rail and inland transportation times
- Export containers missing scheduled departures
- Additional storage, demurrage and detention costs
Even a short work stoppage could lead to continued congestion and schedule disruptions after operations resume.
LEMAN is monitoring the situation
At LEMAN, we are closely following developments and monitoring terminal operations, container availability and upcoming vessel schedules to help minimise potential disruptions.
We recommend that customers with shipments moving through Los Angeles or Long Beach allow for possible delays and stay in close contact with their local LEMAN team.
We will provide further updates as more information becomes available.
Have shipments moving through Los Angeles or Long Beach? Contact your local LEMAN team to discuss potential impacts on your supply chain.