☕ Cargoccino is our bi-monthly blog post for logistics professionals and importers, delivering bite-sized industry news. Stay informed while enjoying your favorite drink, with updates every 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month.
West Coast ports in Canada: Getting Ready for Potential Rail Strike
.png)
A potential rail strike in Canada is causing big problems for operations at West Coast ports. Both CN and CPKC are close to stopping work, which means that container terminals are having trouble keeping up and there could be delays. Ocean carriers are making emergency plans, like changing ship routes and stopping new shipments. The whole industry is getting ready for the supply chain to be seriously affected.
Source: JOC
US Container Ports Continue Strong Growth
The top ten container ports in the United States witnessed a remarkable 20.9% increase in inbound cargo volumes last month, marking the ninth consecutive month of year-over-year growth. This surge in volume highlights the strength of the US economy and defies concerns related to potential labor disputes or tariff changes.
Source: GCaptain
Port of Portland Seeks Private Operator for T6 Terminal
The Port of Portland is actively seeking a private terminal operator to take over the management of its T6 container terminal. This strategic move aims to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and attract more ocean carriers to the port. With state funding and recent operational improvements, the port is confident in its ability to attract a suitable partner and revitalize its container business.
Source: JOC
Commodity Trends: Steel, Sugar, Oil, Dairy, and Climate Tech
The steel industry is dealing with prices decreasing and more exports coming from China. Sugar prices are being affected by how much Brazil is making and the weather conditions there. Oil stocks are at the lowest levels in months because refineries are working less and there are fewer shipments from Canada. A disagreement about trade between China and the EU is having an effect on dairy imports. Funding for climate technology in the US has gone past China, but there has been less overall funding worldwide.
Source: Bloomberg
Transpacific Rates Rise Amid Strike Threat, Asia-Europe Declines
Transpacific container spot rates are increasing due to the looming threat of a strike on the US East Coast. Meanwhile, rates on the Asia-Europe route are softening as carriers face pressure to fill allocations. Shippers are closely monitoring the situation and preparing for potential disruptions.
Source: The Loadstar
FMC Finalizes Rule on Unreasonable Cargo Space Refusals
The Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) has introduced a new rule that prevents carriers from denying space for booked containers and provides additional protection to shippers during negotiations. This rule, aimed at addressing numerous complaints of carrier misconduct, will become effective on September 23rd. It is anticipated that this action will empower shippers and discourage carriers from employing unfair practices. Additionally, the FMC has made public the comments it received regarding the new OSRA regulations. Below is BlueCargo’s comment:
☕ What is Brewing at BlueCargo? ☕
We are slowly transitioning towards the end of summer, and we are at the heart of the back-to-school season. With it comes two exciting events that are the perfect opportunities to meet with you.
Mark in your calendar:
- The 1st annual Labor Day Weekend Logistics Ride in Long Beach, Sunday, September 1st, 2024 - 9 AM Meet at the Shoreline Yacht Club.
- The IANA Expo 2024 where we would love to meet at our booth #336: EMAIL US to book a meeting.
