East Coast Dockworkers Resist Automation As Contract Expires

East Coast Dockworkers Resist Automation As Contract Expires

The US dockworkers' union and the Maritime Alliance are locked in a stalemate over automation negotiations, with the union fearing job losses. The trade community is concerned about the potential impact on supply chains. Balancing the interests of labor and management is crucial to avoid hindering economic recovery. The impasse highlights the challenges of technological advancements in the workplace and the need for proactive solutions to mitigate negative consequences and ensure a smooth transition for workers in the face of automation.

11/03/2025 Logistics
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East and Gulf Coast Ports Face Strike Disruptions

East and Gulf Coast Ports Face Strike Disruptions

A labor dispute between the International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) has triggered a strike at ports along the US East Coast and Gulf Coast. This paper provides an in-depth analysis of the strike, detailing the current operational status of key ports, assessing its impact on the supply chain, and offering a future outlook. The analysis will cover the immediate disruptions and potential long-term consequences for businesses relying on these vital trade gateways.

11/03/2025 Logistics
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Yang Ming Ship Collision Disrupts Operations at Turkish Port

Yang Ming Ship Collision Disrupts Operations at Turkish Port

The 'YM Witness' vessel, chartered by Yang Ming Marine Transport Corporation, was involved in a collision accident at Evyap Port in Turkey, collapsing three cranes. Yang Ming has released a statement indicating their cooperation with the investigation and announcing schedule adjustments. This incident highlights the importance of maritime safety and the need for strengthened port safety management. The accident underscores the potential risks associated with container ship operations within port environments, necessitating a review of safety protocols and infrastructure maintenance.

11/03/2025 Logistics
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Guide to Ocean Bills of Lading and Shipping Risks

Guide to Ocean Bills of Lading and Shipping Risks

This article provides a comprehensive analysis of the types, functions, and applications of ocean bills of lading in international trade. Focusing on novice sellers, it offers a detailed practical guide on bill of lading selection, information verification, and risk mitigation. The aim is to empower new exporters to engage in international trade activities safely and efficiently by understanding the intricacies of the bill of lading, a crucial document in maritime shipping. This guide helps navigate potential pitfalls and ensures smooth transactions.

01/15/2026 Document Interpretation
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Inland Container Depots Key Hubs and Development Potential in Global Logistics

Inland Container Depots Key Hubs and Development Potential in Global Logistics

Inland Container Depots (ICDs) are crucial transit nodes in global logistics networks, providing storage, customs clearance, and other services for importers, exporters, and logistics service providers. The advantages of ICDs include alleviating port congestion and making efficient use of resources. Their operational processes encompass container arrival, registration, storage, customs clearance, and dispatch, with costs varying based on location and service specifics.

07/24/2025 Logistics
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Customs Inspection Guide for Hazardous Goods Shipping

Customs Inspection Guide for Hazardous Goods Shipping

This article delves into commodity inspection issues in the maritime export of dangerous goods, providing detailed answers and solutions to common questions such as whether a product requires commodity inspection, the inspection process, and reasons for customs inspection. Using specific cases, such as the maritime export of Class 2.1 dangerous goods silane, Class 5.2 dangerous goods, battery packs, and N,N-dimethylcyclohexylamine, it explains key operational points and precautions. The aim is to help companies avoid risks and complete the export process safely and efficiently, ensuring export compliance and smooth shipping operations.

08/22/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Asian Shippers Push for Transparent Pricing Fair Practices

Asian Shippers Push for Transparent Pricing Fair Practices

The Asian Shippers' Alliance annual meeting adopted an action plan to address rising ocean freight rates and opaque surcharges. The plan includes appeals to the International Chamber of Commerce and the World Trade Organization, advocating for simplified freight rates and reasonable surcharges. It also supports supply chain security measures and urges Asian countries to develop pro-competitive maritime regulations to protect shipper rights. The alliance aims to ensure fee transparency and fair treatment for shippers in the face of increasing costs and complex fee structures in the maritime industry.

09/26/2025 Logistics Industry Insights
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FMC Forms Shipper Advisory Panel to Address Supply Chain Woes

FMC Forms Shipper Advisory Panel to Address Supply Chain Woes

The U.S. Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) has established the National Shipper Advisory Committee, bringing together representatives from 24 import/export companies, including Target and Amazon. The committee aims to address global supply chain challenges and enhance the efficiency and fairness of the international freight system. Focusing on areas like container availability, market competition, and service reliability, the committee will provide strategic recommendations to the FMC. This initiative is intended to help the United States gain a greater competitive edge in global trade by improving its maritime shipping practices and addressing critical supply chain bottlenecks.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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East and Gulf Coast Ports Agree to Sixyear Labor Pact with Wage Increases

East and Gulf Coast Ports Agree to Sixyear Labor Pact with Wage Increases

The International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) have reached a new six-year agreement covering 36 ports on the US East and Gulf Coasts. Key aspects include wage increases and guidelines for the implementation of automation technologies. The agreement aims to ensure supply chain stability, enhance port competitiveness, and promote harmonious labor relations. While offering opportunities for stable port development, the agreement also presents challenges related to the ongoing automation transformation within the industry. This deal is crucial for the future of maritime operations in the region.

01/20/2026 Logistics
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