U.S. port shutdowns possible
Figure 1: Table of potential strike action scenarios (Source: Everstream Analytics). Also read: CH Robinson: How shippers can prepare for potential ILA strikes amid growing disruption in North American shipping landscape Impact of strike could extend to U.S. West Coast ports via diversions "If a strike occurs, U.S. West Coast ports will almost certainly experience increased congestion due to increased diversion of cargo flows. U.S. East Coast and Gulf Coast ports combined account for about 50% of imported cargo, and West Coast capacity will soon be overwhelmed by the increased volume. This could lead to disruptions such as extended ship waiting times, congestion at container yards and delays in rail operations to and from affected ports. Additionally, the threat of a United States West Coast shutdown cannot be ruled out. The International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) is committed to supporting the Eastern and Gulf Coast Alliance. While the ILWU has not yet outlined any specific support actions it plans…
Impact of port strikes on backlogs and delays
Strike duration in all ports Estimated timeline for clearing the backlog 1 day 7 days 3 days 21-25 days 7 days mid-november Also read: CH Robinson: How shippers can prepare for potential ILA strikes amid growing disruption in North American shipping landscape Impact of port strikes on specific industries: pharmaceuticals and healthcare 1. The looming U.S. port strike puts most categories of cargo at risk, as Eastern and Gulf Coast ports handle nearly half of the country’s cargo. General retail goods may be the only category unaffected by short- or medium-term strikes, as many importers expect the strikes to continue and bring forward the typical seasonal shipping season from September to August to prepare for holiday stockings. Spending rises. 2. Most companies have about 3-4 weeks of inventory, and if the impact of the strike lasts beyond that time frame, supply may be disrupted. 3. In addition to the automobile and agricultural products industries, The pharmaceutical and healthcare industries, which…