UPDATE: East and Gulf Coast Ports Reopen After ILA and USMX Agreement

The East and Gulf Coast port strike has ended following a tentative agreement between the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX). This agreement includes a significant 61% wage increase for dockworkers and extends the current contract through January 2025, providing time for both sides to finalize the remaining details.

While the strike has concluded, its impact is still felt across the supply chain. The strike led to considerable backups at the ports, and businesses are now facing the possibility of continued carrier port fees in the coming months as the system works to recover. These fees and the existing congestion could affect shipment timelines for many industries.

Additionally, we have observed consistent delays with rail shipments, further exacerbated by the port strike. These delays are expected to continue, and we strongly advise against using rail for time-sensitive shipments. At The Block Logistics, we’re your partner, supporting you through these challenges and offering alternative solutions to keep your supply chain moving efficiently.

If you have any questions or need assistance with your logistics planning, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team.