Specifically, the two sides remain at odds over provisions related to the deployment of semi-automated technologies like rail-mounted gantry cranes, according to an analysis by the Kansas-based 3PL Noatum Logistics. The ILA has strongly opposed further automation, arguing it threatens dockworker protections, while the USMX contends that automation enhances productivity and can create long-term opportunities for labor.
In fact, U.S. importers are already taking action to prevent the impact of such a strike, “pulling forward” their container shipments by rushing imports to earlier dates on the calendar, according to analysis by supply chain visibility provider Project44. That strategy can help companies to build enough safety stock to dampen the damage of events like the strike and like the steep tariffs being threatened by the incoming Trump administration.
Likewise, some ocean carriers have already instituted January surcharges in pre-emption of possible labor action, which could support inbound ocean rates if a strike occurs, according to freight market analysts with TD Cowen. In the meantime, the outcome of the new negotiations are seen with “significant uncertainty,” due to the contentious history of the discussion and to the timing of the talks that overlap with a transition between two White House regimes, analysts said.
Engineering personnel will be carrying out maintenance at HMNB Portsmouth tomorrow (October 10). AN alert was issued to mariners by the King’s Harbour Master (KHM). They said Boskalis Westminster Ltd, a Dutch dredging and heavylift company with a base in Segensworth, is completing minor survey works focusing on the North Corner area and the Tidal Basin…. Read More
Around 91 ships were waiting on Sunday morning to enter or leave the ports of Antwerp, Zeebrugge, or Ghent due to an ongoing strike by maritime pilots that began last week. The strike, led by the Pilots’ Professional Association (BvL), stems from a dispute over pension reforms. Months ago, pilots reached a provisional agreement with… Read More
The Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) has signed a Terminal Operator Agreement (TOA) with FFS Tank Terminals to operate and maintain a Liquid Bulk Terminal at the Port of Cape Town for a 25-year concession period. With an investment of R195.7million over the first three years, this new concession will lead to the refurbishment of… Read More
BEIJING – Vessels owned or operated by U.S. firms and individuals, or those built in the United States or that fly the U.S. flag, will be charged additional port fees per voyage starting on Tuesday, China’s transport ministry said. The fees are a countermeasure against upcoming U.S. port fees on Chinese ships, the ministry said on Friday. Also… Read More
Port Freeport marked a historic milestone on Monday, Sept. 22, 2025, with the delivery of two state-of-the-art Super Post-Panamax Ship-to-Shore Gantry Cranes. Their arrival, coinciding with the Port’s 100th anniversary, underscores Port Freeport’s enduring commitment to growth, innovation, and service to the region. Transported fully erected aboard a heavy-lift vessel, the cranes were carefully offloaded and… Read More