ILWU Local 26 Threatens Strike Action at the Ports of Los Angeles & Long Beach
To our Importing Clients at the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach,
Please be advised that potential container terminal disruptions could emerge at the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach as early as 5:00 PM PT on Sunday, November 1st, due to a strike threat by ILWU Local 26 security watchmen. The union represents approximately 250 watchmen involved in this contract dispute.
While these security workers represent a small fraction of the total port workforce, they cover critical terminals handling more than half of the complex’s total cargo volume.
If a strike occurs, other ILWU members are expected to honor the picket lines, which could halt vessel, yard, and gate operations at affected terminals.
In a recent statement, the Pacific Maritime Association (PMA) emphasized its commitment to securing a fair agreement with ILWU Local 26. The association stated that it will continue bargaining in good faith leading up to the November 1st deadline and will extend negotiations beyond that date if required to reach a deal.
To mitigate risks and safeguard your cargo schedules, the Los Angeles Customs Broker and Freight Forwarder Association (LACBFFA) recommends taking the following proactive steps before the weekend:
1. Coordinate with Your Truckers: Touch base with your trucking partners prior to Friday evening to confirm gate operations and arrange early container pickups where possible.
2. Confirm 7–14 Day Cargo Windows: Review all container availabilities and arrivals expected within the next 7 to 14 days and coordinate logistics accordingly.
3. Identify Urgent Shipments: Please notify us immediately of any shipments requiring absolute priority, along with their firm delivery dates.
4. Return Empty Containers: Review and report any outstanding empty containers that need to be returned to prevent potential gate blockages or detention fees.
Staying on top of your upcoming shipments ensures your logistics partners have the necessary time to prioritize your critical cargo.
This is the only information that we have at this time. Flegenheimer International will continue to monitor the mediation progress closely and share updates as they develop.
Flegenheimer International Team
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