Workers in the freight industry have the ability to slow down the flow of cargo while adhering to the rules outlined in the current contract. In a recent video message, the president of the International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) expressed that if members were compelled to return to work, they would likely handle only a fraction of their usual cargo volumes. This sentiment was echoed by a senior ocean carrier executive who highlighted the potential impact on productivity.
The ILA president emphasized the potential consequences of workers returning to the piers under duress, suggesting that the companies would incur additional costs in paying salaries while experiencing a significant decrease in operational efficiency. The shift from an average of 30 moves per hour to as low as eight could pose challenges for the companies involved.
Industry experts have acknowledged the complexities associated with forcing the union members back to work. Peter Tirschwell, a prominent figure in the shipping sector, noted that the shipping lines are aware of the potential ramifications of such a mandate. He highlighted a conversation with a senior representative from an ocean carrier who expressed concerns about the possibility of workers making operations difficult for all parties involved.
The statements made by ILA officials and industry insiders underscore the delicate balance between labor relations and operational efficiency in the freight industry. As discussions continue regarding the potential outcomes of compelling workers to resume their duties, stakeholders are closely monitoring the situation to assess the impact on cargo movement and overall supply chain operations.
