The Port of Long Beach is primed to manage an increase in cargo should a labor strike at the East and Gulf Coast ports transpire, according to CEO Mario Cordero. Speaking at a press conference, Cordero highlighted how the experiences of the COVID-19 pandemic and advancements in data and operations have positioned the San Pedro Bay port complex favorably to meet shipper expectations.
Flexibility and Capacity
COO Noel Hacegaba added that the terminal operators are ready to extend their gate hours as required. The Short Term Overflow Resource (STOR) facility at Pier S, which was opened in 2020 to facilitate cargo movements during peak season, is operational and has spare capacity.
The Port of Long Beach reported a 34% increase in cargo volumes in August and is equipped to handle additional capacity if necessary. “We are handling just as much cargo as we did in 2021 and 2022 but without any of the backlogs, delays or congestion that characterized the pandemic-induced supply chain crisis,” Hacegaba stated.
As the Sept. 30 contract expiration date approaches, negotiations between the International Longshoremen’s Association and the United States Maritime Alliance remain at a standstill, primarily due to disagreements over port automation. The union has recently shared a strike mobilization plan with its members, indicating a possible strike.
The Port of Long Beach’s container terminals are currently operating at 74% capacity, with container dwell times ranging from four to eight days. “We’re prepared for the uptick in shipments and continued growth through the rest of the year with a dedicated waterfront workforce, modern infrastructure and plenty of capacity across our terminals.”
