In recent weeks, the possibility of a dockworkers’ strike on the West Coast had many industries bracing for significant supply chain disruptions. However, a recent development has brought a temporary reprieve: the strike has been suspended after an agreement was reached between the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) and port operators. This deal, while providing immediate relief, leaves questions about long-term stability unresolved, keeping … Read More
How Businesses Can Prepare for Hurricane Milton’s Impact on Florida’s Ports
As Hurricane Milton barrels toward Florida, threatening to become a Category 5 storm, businesses across the region are bracing for significant disruptions. With major ports in Florida, such as those in Miami, Jacksonville, and Tampa, expected to shut down or operate at limited capacity, the impact on supply chains could be profound. Now is the time for companies to take strategic action to minimize the … Read More
Port Strike Ends as Workers Secure New Deal: Impacts on Global Trade and Supply Chains
A major labor dispute that disrupted operations across key U.S. ports has finally come to an end. The port strike, which caused widespread delays and economic uncertainty, concluded after workers and port employers reached a tentative agreement. With wages increased and working conditions improved, the resolution brings relief to businesses that rely on uninterrupted trade flows, especially as the busy holiday season approaches. The strike … Read More
Rate Increases Expected Due to Potential East Coast Strikes
With the looming threat of labor unrest on the U.S. East Coast and Gulf Coast, the shipping industry is bracing for significant rate increases. Several major carriers, including Evergreen, HMM, CMA CGM, Maersk, and Yang Ming, have issued announcements about impending surcharges designed to mitigate the operational disruptions expected if strikes or other labor-related slowdowns materialize. These rate hikes, set to take effect in mid-to-late … Read More
The Impact of Typhoons on Global Supply Chains
In recent years, typhoons have become a growing concern for industries worldwide, particularly in the agricultural sector and global supply chains. As climate change intensifies, these powerful storms are causing unprecedented disruptions, leading to billions in losses and a ripple effect across multiple industries. The most recent analysis by FreightWaves highlights the severity of the situation, offering insights into how these natural disasters are reshaping … Read More
Biden Cracks Down on Unsafe De Minimis Shipments
In a significant move to protect American consumers, workers, and businesses, the Biden-Harris administration has announced new measures to crack down on de minimis shipments—low-value imports that often bypass traditional scrutiny. These shipments, typically valued under $800, have been increasingly exploited to flood the U.S. market with unsafe or unfairly traded goods. The new actions focus on enhancing oversight and enforcing stricter trade practices to … Read More
How to Mitigate Disruptions from the Upcoming ILA Port Strike
The looming strike by the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA), set to begin on October 1, 2024, threatens to disrupt major ports along the East and Gulf Coasts. The ILA is in a contentious battle with the U.S. Maritime Alliance over wages and job security, especially regarding automation. As Dennis Daggett, ILA Executive Vice President, stated, the union is fighting against “corporate greed” and will be … Read More
Preparing for Chinese Golden Week: A Critical Time for the Logistics Industry
As we approach Chinese Golden Week, it’s essential for everyone in the logistics industry to understand the significant impact this holiday can have on global supply chains. Golden Week, which takes place in the first week of October, is one of the largest national holidays in China, celebrating the founding of the People’s Republic of China. While it’s a festive time across the country, for … Read More
Imminent Gulf Coast Ports Strike Set to Begin in October
As the possibility of a strike at the US East and Gulf Coast ports looms, the global logistics and shipping industry is bracing for significant disruptions. Set to commence on October 1, this strike could create a ripple effect across international supply chains, affecting everything from freight costs to delivery timelines. The upcoming strike stems from a deep-rooted conflict between the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) … Read More
Insights from the Canadian Rail Strike and Its Resolution
Canada’s logistics landscape recently faced a significant disruption when the country’s major rail networks, Canadian National Railway (CN) and Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC), halted operations due to a labor dispute. The Teamsters Canada Rail Conference (TCRC), representing about 10,000 workers at CN and CPKC, had issued a 72-hour strike notice, leading to a lockout by the rail companies in the early hours of August … Read More