Dear Valued Client: 

This is to inform you of a possible strike by watchmen at the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach. The strike is currently scheduled to begin this Sunday at 5 p.m. if an agreement between the watchmen and the Pacific Maritime Association is not reached. 

Port watchmen perform security, gate monitoring, and cargo watch duties. Because these functions are essential to terminal operations, a strike could have serious repercussions, including compounding existing congestion, creating additional delays, and potentially forcing carriers to divert vessels to other ports. The effects could extend well beyond the ports and cause delays throughout the supply chain. 

Clients with cargo already in transit to Los Angeles or Long Beach could, in the short term, experience delays at sea due to the already high levels of congestion. If the strike continues for an extended period, carriers may also decide to divert vessels or discharge cargo originally bound for Los Angeles and Long Beach at other West Coast ports. 

Therefore, if a strike occurs, we are advising all clients, especially those with cargo still awaiting loading and destined for either port, to contact their logistics consultants to discuss alternative strategies and prepare for potential disruptions. 

This is an ongoing situation, and we will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available. 

Thank you! 

Sincerely,

OEC Group