Truck drivers at the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach (LA/LB) voted to strike starting today. The call to action is a result of Saturday’s vote, which was prompted by drivers’ frustration regarding compensation, insurance, and job security. Drivers are currently classified as independent contractors but seek classification as employees to gain workplace protections, disability insurance, workers’ compensation, and unemployment benefits. The Teamsters-supported movement targets four large drayage companies. About 200 of the estimated 500 truckers associated with the drayage companies began picketing this morning at seven terminals and at the drayage companies’ locations. Operations continue at the ports and disruption to cargo movement is minimal for now.

After months of port congestion at LA/LB, shippers are concerned about slowdowns. Deringer will continue to monitor and report further developments. Please contact a Deringer representative for specific information regarding your cargo.