Montreal Longshoremen has issued a 72-hour strike notice - Logistics Solutions if a Strike Occurs

The union representing longshore workers at the Port of Montreal has issued a 72-hour strike notice, warning that work at two terminals could halt next week. This could result in dockworkers walking off the job starting at 7 a.m. on Monday and lasting until Thursday.

This development comes as talks between the union and the MEA have reached an impasse following the expiration of the previous five-year collective agreement at the end of December 2023. 

A similar strike in 2020 resulted in significant delays and a backlog of over 11,000 containers, causing weeks of disruption at the Port of Montreal.

Potential Logistics Solutions if a Strike Occurs

If the strike is approved, DB Schenker is advising logistics operators and shippers to prepare for potential disruptions at one of Canada’s key ports. Possible solutions to mitigate the impact include:

1. Diversion to Other Ports: Cargo can be rerouted to alternative ports such as Halifax or Saint John on the East Coast or Vancouver on the West Coast. However, capacity at these ports may be limited, leading to potential delays.
2. Utilizing Rail and Truck Transportation: Rail and trucking routes can help move goods to and from alternative ports or directly to inland destinations. This could relieve some pressure from ports but may increase costs and transit times.
3. Increased Use of U.S. Ports: Ports such as New York/New Jersey or even those along the Gulf Coast could serve as alternatives for Canadian shippers, though this would require cross-border logistics and potentially longer transit times.
4. Advance Stockpiling: Importers may consider stockpiling essential goods ahead of the strike to avoid immediate shortages and ensure supply continuity during the potential disruption.
5.  Air Freight: For high-priority or time-sensitive goods, switching to air freight, could provide an expedited solution during the strike period.
6.  Transloading Services: Companies could utilize transloading facilities at alternative ports, where cargo is shifted between transport modes (from ship to truck or rail), enabling quicker adaptation to route changes.

With a strike looming, 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.