On February 21, 2014, the Journal of Commerce (JOC) issued a press release regarding the backlog at New York and New Jersey container terminals as a result of recent winter storm impacts. The waiting queue outside Maher Terminals is currently 2.5 miles, and truckers have waiting times of approximately 5-7 hours.

The release specifies that, “Winter weather has disrupted ship schedules and resulted in bunching of ship calls. This, as well as the fact that larger ships are disgorging more containers on a single call, has complicated terminal operations at New York-New Jersey and other ports. Trucking companies have been hoarding chassis because they fear they’ll be unable to obtain roadworthy equipment at terminals. Terminals have spent several million dollars on unbudgeted overtime to keep gates open on several Saturdays this year and on Lincoln’s Birthday and Presidents’ Day, both International Longshoremen’s Association holidays.”

Although such efforts have been made, the situation has yet to improve and several port drayage companies have started to impose congestion surcharges.

Expeditors will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as they occur. Please contact your local branch for any further assistance.

The press release can be accessed here