At a glance
- What changed
- Supply chain disruption update
- Who is affected
- All Industries
- Business impact
- Labor actions at the San Pedro Bay ports disrupted terminal operations, canceled appointments, and created delays for container in-gates and pickups at Los Angeles and Long Beach.
Latest update
The International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) Local 13 delayed work at most marine terminals at the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach by slowing the dispatch of workers. Coastwide labor contract negotiations had been underway for 11 months. Union job actions had closed nearly all of the port complex's terminals the prior week, and Monday's actions resulted in delays that threatened to accelerate diversion of discretionary cargo to Atlantic and Gulf Coast ports.
What happened
On Thursday, April 6 at 5 PM PST, the Port of Los Angeles and Long Beach stopped operation due to a shortage of dockworker labor. The closure continued Friday, April 7. Several terminals announced that all appointments scheduled for container in-gates and pickups were canceled. Four of Long Beach's container terminals closed for the entire day after workers did not report. The Pacific Maritime Association warned these actions undermine confidence in West Coast ports and threaten further market share erosion.
Shipper impact and next steps
Operation delays were expected for containers scheduled to be picked up or returned Thursday evening, Friday, or over the weekend. Additional charges were anticipated, though some carriers adjusted demurrage and detention free time due to these unforeseen circumstances. Ocean Services closely monitored the situation and advised customers of potential delays and disruptions at the San Pedro Bay ports.
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