04 November 2024

Canadian Port Labor Update

Canadian Port Labor Update
  • On November 1st, the BC Maritime Employers Association announced they will lock out the union at the port of Vancouver beginning Monday, November 4, at 9 a.m. local time. This was in response to a 72-hour limited strike notice announced by the ILWU. This will cease operations at the port until the parties reach a resolution. The BCMEA has stated they will lift the lockout if the ILWU rescinds their 72-hour strike notice.
  • At the port of Montreal, workers at 2 of the 4 container terminals (Viau and Maisonneuve) remain on indefinite strike. Work scheduling and overtime are the main issues in the dispute, and the port workers have been operating without a contract since December 31, 2023. Two terminals remain operational but are expected to be overwhelmed quickly.
  • The combined issues in Vancouver and Montreal mean more freight will be directed to the much smaller terminals in Prince Rupert and Halifax. Congestion will build quickly the longer the labor issues linger, and delays should be expected for the foreseeable future.
Contingency Options
  • Cross-border trucking can be arranged for any cargo that needs to be moved out of Canada and shipped via a U.S. port. The CaroTrans team can also assist with any customs formalities involved in the border crossing.

For any questions regarding the delays or possible contingency options, please contact your local CaroTrans team.
 

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