- U.S. East and Gulf Coast ports are extending delivery hours as they brace for a potential dockworker strike on October 1.
- The labor dispute could lead to the closure of 36 major ports, severely impacting the already strained supply chain.
- Ports like New York, New Jersey, Savannah, and Virginia are preparing contingency plans to mitigate disruptions.
Ports along the U.S. East and Gulf Coasts are extending delivery hours to accommodate importers ahead of a possible dockworker strike on October 1. The move aims to expedite the clearance of cargo before the expiration of the current labor contract, reports Reuters.
Dockworkers’ Contract Dispute
Around 45,000 dockworkers, aligned with the International Longshoremen’s Association, have threatened a walkout if no new contract is in place by the September 30 deadline.
A strike could close 36 ports, significantly affecting the national supply chain. If the strike occurs, it would impact five of the ten busiest ports in North America, creating logistical challenges for companies as they attempt to reroute freight to alternative ports.
Ports Implement Extended Hours
In response, key ports like New York and New Jersey are extending their terminal hours by two additional hours.
Terminal operators like Maher and Maersk’s APM are working to clear as much cargo as possible in preparation for the potential strike.
Largest Port on the East Coast Prepares
The Port of New York and New Jersey, the busiest on the East and Gulf Coasts, processes around 15,000-16,000 TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) daily, representing about $240 billion worth of goods annually.
The port is working with its partners to prepare for potential disruptions.
Anticipated Ship Arrivals
By September 30, 42 container ships will arrive at the Port of New York and New Jersey. Thirteen ships are scheduled to arrive after the contract expiration date, making it a focal point in the ongoing labor negotiations.
The Garden City Terminal at the Port of Savannah and the Norfolk International Terminal at the Port of Virginia have also extended gate hours for the weekend before September 30 to clear additional cargo.
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Source: Reuters
