Contract negotiations on the waterfront worry shippers

© Khunaspix Dreamstime.

Shippers are being advised to get their goods into the US early this summer, and ensure they have logistics contingency plans, as fears over a US west coast port strike grow. With negotiations only beginning next week, and the ILWU’s contract expiring on July 1, it seems likely there will be delays. Apparel customers in particular need to get their goods into the US before July 1 in order to be ready for the Back-to-school and holiday seasons.