October ’24 at-a-glance … supply chain 

Negotiations resume with longshoremen as east/gulf coast ports reopen 

Following agreement by the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) to a 63% wage increase over six years, the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) returned to work early this month at east and gulf coast ports from Maine to Texas. Negotiations are likely to continue until the new Jan. 15 contract deadline for increased benefits and retirement funds, and limits on the use of automated cargo handling systems that could replace human workers. 

During negotiations and beyond, Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) resources are always available: 

• The Office of Consumer Affairs and Dispute Resolution Services can help cargo resolve disputes and identify solutions.  

• Companies that believe they have been improperly invoiced, including detention and demurrage charges, can file a Charge Complaint with the Commission and have their claim rapidly reviewed.