ILA Strike – US East Coast, Gulf Ports. Update

The International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) strike that began on October 1, 2024, has resulted in varied impacts across East Coast and Gulf ports. Here’s a current overview of the situation:

Key Points

• Operations have come to a standstill at approximately 36 major ports along the U.S. East Coast with minimum impact in US Gulf ports.
• Private terminals, especially those handling bulk and liquid cargo, are less impacted.
• Public terminals are experiencing more significant disruptions, particularly in container and RORO operations.
• The situation remains fluid, with variations in impact across different ports and terminal types.

East Coast Ports

• No berthing or operational plans are in place for most East Coast ports.
• All liner services, RORO, and dry & break bulk cargo vessels that arrived on or after October 1, 2024, are awaiting further instructions, unless scheduled at private terminals.

Gulf Coast Ports

Most Gulf Coast ports remain operational, with some exceptions:

• Stevedores, line handlers, pilots, and towage services are functioning normally in most areas.
• Some public docks are operational with exceptions or are making alternative arrangements with private terminals.

Port of Houston Area

Container and RORO Operations: Significantly affected

• Bayport Container Terminal and Barbours Cut Terminal are not operational
• Container and RORO cargo handling is suspended at most public terminals

Bulk and Liquid Cargo: Largely unaffected

• Most private bulk and liquid terminals are operating normally
• Public bulk docks at the Port of Houston are working with some exceptions

Support Services: Mostly operational

• Line handlers, tugs, and pilots are working across Texas City, Galveston, Freeport, and Houston.
• Most stevedoring companies are operational, with a few exceptions.

We will continue to monitor the situation and keep you updated on the status.

For operational questions, please contact usec.enquiries@iss-shipping.com (US East Coast) / usgc.enquiries@iss-shipping.com (US Gulf Coast)