Massive Strike Could Snarl Holiday Shopping

The union representing US dockworkers signaled that 45,000 members will walk off the job at midnight, kicking off a massive strike likely to shut down ports across the East and Gulf coasts. The coming work stoppage threatens to significantly snarl the nation's supply chain, potentially leading to higher prices and delays for households and businesses if it drags on for weeks. That's because the strike by members of the International Longshoremen's Association could cause 36 ports—which handle roughly half of the goods shipped into and out of the US—to shutter operations, the AP reports.

ILA confirmed over the weekend that its members would hit the picket lines at 12:01am Tuesday. In a Monday update, the union continued to blame the United States Maritime Alliance, which represents the ports, for continuing to "to block the path" towards an agreement before the contract deadline.

• "The Ocean Carriers represented by USMX want to enjoy rich billion-dollar profits that they are making in 2024, while they offer ILA Longshore Workers an unacceptable wage package that we reject," ILA said in a statement. "ILA longshore workers deserve to be compensated for the important work they do keeping American commerce moving and growing."
• ILA members are demanding higher wages and a total ban on the automation of cranes, gates and container-moving trucks used in the loading or unloading of freight.

• If drawn out, the strike would force businesses to pay shippers for delays and cause some goods to arrive late for peak holiday shopping season—potentially impacting delivery of anything from toys or artificial Christmas trees, to cars, coffee, and vegetables. Americans could also face higher prices as retailers feel the supply squeeze, all ahead of a tight presidential election.
• The coming strike by the ILA workers will be the first by the union since 1977. And the Biden administration has signaled that it will not intervene. President Biden, during an exchange with reporters on Sunday, said "no" when asked if he planned to intervene to plan a potential work stoppage impacting East Coast ports.

(More shipping stories.)