This is an update regarding the disruption at Port of Vancouver, B.C.:
As of today, transport of all import and export LCL and FCL shipments through the Port of Vancouver, B.C. have effectively been shutdown as a result of a strike by UNIFOR-Vancouver Container Truckers’ Association, the largest unions representing container truck drivers in Metro Vancouver. A larger number of non-unionized truckers, who are part of the United Truckers Association, stopped working and began protesting at the port on Feb. 26th, citing slow congestion, slow turn times and pay issues. UNIFOR and the UTA on Saturday voted against the recommendations proposed by the Federal mediator to avert strike action that would have them back to work Monday, March 10th.
We expect all local trucking and yard activities to be locked down as of Monday and expect the UTA/UNIFOR dispute will continue for most of next week and possibly much longer. If the strike continues for any extended period, container movements will be crippled and possibly come to a standstill.
Facing the prospect of continued disruption of port operations by container truckers, Port Metro Vancouver advised it is taking immediate steps to enhance the safety of the port for working truckers. PMV is also working with the federal and provincial governments, shippers and trucking companies to address trucker concerns and the continued instability of the container trucking industry.
UTi is watching these events closely as it pertains to our clients’ shipments.
