ILA & USMX REACH TENTATIVE AGREEMENT - Current master contract extended to January 2025

W.B. Skinner > News > ILA & USMX REACH TENTATIVE AGREEMENT – Current master contract extended to January 2025

We are pleased to provide an important update regarding the recent International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) strike. After three days of port shutdowns affecting major East Coast and Gulf Coast ports, the ILA and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) have reached a tentative agreement on wages and agreed to extend the current master contract until January 15, 2025.

Effective immediately, all job actions have ceased, and operations at the impacted ports are resuming. However, with 45 vessels waiting to unload, significant backlogs remain. It will take time for ports to return to normal operations, so continued delays are expected as the backlog clears.

Key Details of the Settlement:
– Wage Agreement: The ILA and USMX have agreed on a substantial wage increase for dockworkers, addressing one of the major sticking points of the dispute.

– Contract Extension: The Master Contract will remain in effect until mid-January, allowing both sides additional time to negotiate other outstanding issues such as automation and job security.

– Resumption of Work: Cargo handling has resumed, and ports are expected to return to full operations shortly.

Important Considerations Moving Forward:
– Anticipated Backlogs: Although the strike has ended, we expect continued delays due to the backlog of cargo that accumulated during the stoppage. It will take some time for ports to clear these backlogs and return to normal operations, so please plan accordingly.

– Ongoing Negotiations: While this settlement resolves the immediate disruption, negotiations on other key issues will continue until early 2025, which could result in further actions if no long-term agreement is reached.

How WB Skinner Inc. Is Assisting You:
– Priority Support: Our team is working diligently to monitor your shipments and manage any delays caused by the backlog. We are coordinating with carriers and terminals to ensure your cargo moves as efficiently as possible.

– Continuous Updates: We will continue to provide real-time updates on port conditions and any further developments in the ILA negotiations. Be sure to stay connected with your WB Skinner Inc. representative for personalized advice.

We appreciate your patience during this time and remain committed to ensuring your operations face as little disruption as possible. If you have any questions or require further assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out.