ILA Strike: What You Need to Know

The ILA strike affects over 85,000 longshoremen and has led to the closure of 36 ports along the East and Gulf coasts, including some of North America’s busiest. This disruption accounts for a substantial portion of U.S. imports—between 43% and 49%—which could result in billions of dollars in trade being affected.

1. Port Closures: Operations at more than half of the U.S. container ports are completely halted, impacting the loading, unloading, and handling of containers.

2. Delays: Expect significant delays at East and Gulf Coast ports, with potential ripple effects extending to other entry points due to rerouting.

3. Cargo Disruptions: Cargo currently en route to affected ports faces risks of extended transit times, increased costs, and rerouting complications.

4. Embargos: Ocean carriers may impose cargo embargos for shipments heading to East Coast ports.

5. Increased Fees: Expect higher costs related to storage, demurrage, detention, chassis, and other port-related charges.

6. Global Supply Chain Effects: The strike could cause further congestion at alternative ports, especially during peak season.

• Delay Shipping: If possible, postpone shipments until the strike is resolved. Rerouting freight is challenging and likely to cause delays.

• Prepare for West Coast Congestion: As cargo is diverted, anticipate heavy congestion and longer wait times at West Coast ports.

• Expect In-Transit Delays: Cargo bound for East and Gulf Coast ports may be stranded offshore until the situation normalizes.

• Prioritize Air Freight: For urgent shipments, air freight could be a faster option, although it is generally more expensive.

• Consider Canada as an Alternative: While this option may have its own challenges, it can serve as a viable alternative for certain shipments.

• Prepare for Higher Costs: Rerouting and additional fees related to demurrage, detention, and storage are likely to increase.

• Understand Financial Responsibilities: Costs related to rerouted vessels and storage will depend on contracts and Incoterms.

• Review Incoterms: Knowing the agreed-upon Incoterms can clarify financial responsibilities during the strike.

• Anticipate Carrier Fee Policies: Carriers and terminals may still collect fees even during the strike, so be prepared for that possibility.

• Communicate with Partners: Keeping in touch with vendors, customers, and supply chain partners is essential for managing the impact of delays.

• Alternative Routing Solutions
  Eastern’s extensive carrier network enables the exploration of alternative routing options for cargo, providing real-time pricing and transit updates.

• Expert Guidance
  Eastern’s industry experts are available to help clients navigate port congestion and determine the most efficient alternative routes, assisting every step of the way.

• Real-Time Tracking
  With Eastern’s RealStatus portal, clients can monitor their shipments in real time, ensuring full transparency with their partners.

• Minimizing Additional Charges
  Eastern's diligent tracking and detailed record-keeping help reduce extra costs such as detention, demurrage, and other fees associated with port delays.

Access the latest updates and port operating hours from the affected terminals through the links below:

• Baltimore, MD: BAL Seagirt Marine Terminal 
• Charleston, SC: CHS Wando Welch 
• Houston, TX: HOU Bayport Container Terminal 
• Jacksonville, FL: JAX Blount Island Marine Terminal 
• Miami, FL: MIA APM 
• Mobile, AL: MOB APM 
• New Orleans, LA: MSY Ports America 
• New York City, NY:  NYC Port Elizabeth , NYC Maher Terminal , NYC Port Liberty Bayonne , NYC Port Liberty New York 
• Norfolk, VA: ORF Port of Virginia - NIT/VIG 
• Philadelphia, PA: PHL Packer Marine Terminal 
• Savannah, GA: SAV Garden City Terminal  
• Wilmington, NC: ILM Ports America  

Access the latest updates and port operating hours from theWest Coast ports through the links below:

• Port of Los Angeles: Cargo Operations Dashboard, Latest News
• Port of Long Beach: Port Operations Dashboard, News and Press
• Port of Oakland: Media and Newsroom
• Port of Seattle: Port of Seattle
• Port of Tacoma: News