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.
CHARLESTON, SC — After three years of leading the South Carolina Ports Authority as President and CEO, Barbara Melvin has announced her resignation, with plans to pursue other opportunities. Melvin joined SC Ports in 1998, serving in a variety of roles and leading major infrastructure initiatives like the Charleston Harbor Deepening Project. “I am grateful… Read More
CHARLESTON, SC—August 18, 2025—The final federal reimbursement for the Charleston Harbor Deepening Project has been disbursed to the South Carolina Ports Authority, a total of $21.28 million allocated by Congress in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Charleston District’s Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 Work Plan. This funding milestone concludes the $580 million deepening initiative, completed… Read More
Louisiana’s backlog of port projects is growing, with billions of dollars in infrastructure improvements waiting years for state funding, The Center Square writes. Since 2019, applications have piled up under the state’s Port Priority Fund, a program that helps finance public port upgrades. But annual funding—now about $40 million—lags far behind demand, according to Julia Fisher-Cormier, head… Read More
The Port of New Orleans (Port NOLA) reported continued gains in cargo volumes and trade activity through the first half of 2025, driven by higher container imports and improved schedule reliability, officials said. Through the first six months of the year, Port NOLA’s container volumes rose 2% year-over-year and 9% compared with the second half of… Read More
COOS BAY, Ore. — Legislators and business leaders in Coos County are hailing a historic $100 million investment in the Port of Coos Bay, a move expected to transform the region’s economy and create thousands of jobs. The funding, approved by the Oregon State Legislature, will support channel modifications and infrastructure improvements at the port,… Read More