Gosselin Statement on U.S. Port Strikes – January 2025

Last update January 2025

Negotiations between the International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) have hit new challenges. In November 2024, discussions stalled over disagreements about port automation. With the January 15, 2025, resolution deadline approaching, the ILA has warned of potential renewed strike action if their demands are not met.

The previous strike, which took place from October 1 to October 3, 2024, disrupted operations at 36 major ports on the U.S. East and Gulf Coasts, causing significant delays and supply chain challenges. While the ports reopened following a temporary resolution and a 90-day suspension of strike activity, ongoing negotiation setbacks raise concerns about further disruptions.

In the event of renewed strike action, additional charges may arise, including increased freight costs, rerouting fees, or storage expenses. Our team is closely monitoring vessel schedules and assessing the potential impact on shipments to ensure we respond promptly and keep disruptions to a minimum. Any additional charges will be communicated transparently.

We are committed to keeping you informed of any developments and working proactively to support your supply chain needs. For specific shipment inquiries, please contact your Gosselin representative directly.

Thank you for your continued trust in Gosselin.

Update 4/10/2024

U.S. Dock Workers Reach Agreement with Port Operators, Ending Strike

The recent three-day strike along the U.S. East and Gulf Coasts has officially ended as the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) reached a tentative agreement. Dockworkers have returned to work, and a final resolution is expected by January 25, 2025.

Our team is closely monitoring vessel schedules and assessing the impact on shipments. We will keep you informed of any changes. For specific shipment inquiries, please reach out to your Gosselin representative.

We appreciate your continued support and patience during this period of transition.

Update 3/10/2024

Effective October 1st, the U.S. East and Gulf Coast port strike has begun, disrupting supply chains worldwide. With 36 major ports affected, the strike is significantly impacting both import and export shipments, leading to delays and increased costs.

At Gosselin, we closely monitor this situation and have implemented contingency plans to minimize the effects on your shipment. Our team is leveraging alternative shipping routes and offering storage in transit if available. However, due to the scale of this disruption, an increase in freight costs and unexpected port charges are unfortunately unavoidable. Should any additional costs occur, they will be transparently communicated and shared at cost.

We expect delays to persist even after the strike is resolved as ports work through backlogs and resume regular operations. Our move managers are prepared to support you through these challenges and ensure your moving process remains as stable as possible during this period.

The strike is a result of ongoing labour disputes over automation and compensation between the U.S. Maritime Alliance (USMX) and the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA). This is the first major strike of its kind since 1977, involving nearly 50,000 dockworkers, and its impact is expected to be widespread across various industries.

Gosselin will continue to provide updates as the situation evolves and will take all possible steps to minimize disruptions to your shipments. For any specific inquiries or shipment concerns, please reach out to your Gosselin account representative or contact our customer service team.

We greatly appreciate your patience and continued trust in Gosselin during this challenging period.

About Gosselin

Gosselin is a leading provider of international moving and destination services. Our clients are  multinationals, relocation management companies, expats, diplomats, military personnel and private persons. With 56 offices in 34 countries, Gosselin has a strong presence in Europe, Russia, the Caucasus and Central Asia.  

Gosselin is a division of the Gosselin Group that has its headquarters in Antwerp, Belgium. The company was founded in 1930 and employs a staff of 975 that generates more than 450 million euros in turnover.