The ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach are continuing to handle cargo as talks over a new contract for terminal security workers continue. The Pacific Maritime Association (PMA) and the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) Local 26 have extended the existing contract through 20 November 2026, with further negotiations scheduled during that period. As of 12 November, no strike date has been announced.
For businesses shipping through either port, there are two developments to keep an eye on. Industrial action could affect access to some terminals, while high import volumes are already increasing the time some containers spend at the ports waiting for onward rail transport.
What could industrial action mean for freight?
The negotiations cover around 250 maritime security workers who help control access to marine terminals, including checking lorries and personnel at terminal gates. According to the PMA, the terminals that could be affected by a strike handle roughly 85% of cargo at Long Beach and 33% at Los Angeles.
If workers take industrial action, the impact on individual shipments would depend on the terminal and the timing of the cargo movement. Restricted gate access could lead to changes to haulage appointments, delays collecting import containers and difficulties delivering export containers ahead of vessel cut-offs.
Rail-bound containers are already waiting longer
In its week 46 operational update, Hapag-Lloyd reported that its rail-bound containers at Los Angeles and Long Beach were spending five to six days at the ports before moving inland, compared with its usual three to four days. The carrier attributed the longer waits to high import volumes and the amount of cargo awaiting onward rail transport.
Road collections may also take longer on some routes. In a separate advisory, Maersk warned that the closure of the Vincent Thomas Bridge, scheduled from 7 November for around 16 months, could make lorry journeys less predictable around the port complex. The carrier expects both ports and their cargo facilities to remain operational during the bridge works.
What should shippers check?
If you have cargo moving through Los Angeles or Long Beach over the coming weeks, check which terminal is handling your shipment and whether your collection or delivery appointment is still in place. For imports moving inland by rail, ask for the latest rail departure and delivery estimates. For exports, reconfirm the terminal cut-off before dispatching your container.
If your shipment is time-sensitive, speak to your usual Beckchoice contact. We can review the latest information for your booking and discuss alternative options where appropriate. Contact Beckchoice
References
- Pacific Maritime Association – Statement on negotiations with ILWU Local 26, 6 November 2026
- Reuters – Los Angeles and Long Beach port employers extend negotiations with watchmen union, 9 November 2026
- Hapag-Lloyd – Week 46 North America operational update
- Maersk – Vincent Thomas Bridge closure advisory, 4 November 2026Top of FormBottom of Form