Latest updates in the CA ports strikes
Dock employers in British Columbia locked out workers on Monday following a union’s strike notice, halting trade at Canada’s busiest and third-busiest ports.
Although the union indicated the strike would involve “limited job action only, with an overtime ban,” the employer association argued that strikes can escalate without warning. Therefore, the lockout was necessary to “facilitate a safe and orderly wind-down of operations.”
This west coast strike coincides with a partial strike at the Port of Montreal, which is blocking 40 percent of container traffic, according to the Maritime Employers Association, representing port terminal operators. Canada’s second-largest port, Montreal, has experienced intermittent stoppages in recent weeks due to issues with a different dockworker union.
Potential Logistics Solutions during Strikes
DB SCHENKER is advising logistics operators and shippers to prepare for potential disruptions. Possible solutions to mitigate the impact include:
- Alternative Routing: Use other East Coast ports or inland transportation options to bypass the Ca Ports locked out or in strike.
- Communication with Stakeholders: Maintain open lines of communication with all stakeholders to manage expectations and provide updates on the situation.
- Flexible Logistics Plans: Develop flexible logistics plans that can be quickly adapted to changing circumstances.
We encourage our customers to assess these options and contact us to put contingency plans in place to minimize disruption. Stay tuned for further updates on the strike and impacts on port operations.