On Monday February 24, 2014, members of the United Truckers Association (UTA) gave the Port of Vancouver 48-hours’ notice of service disruption.  The withdrawal of services at the Port of Vancouver has begun today, Wednesday February 26, 2014, and according to a release issued by CBC News, “Some 1,200 Metro Vancouver container truckers are parking their rigs Wednesday morning, in protest of long wait times at port facilities.”

Withdrawal of trucking and drayage services could exacerbate the already congested terminals.   It is unknown what the magnitude of the service disruption will be and the duration.  Currently, there are picket lines at all ports and off dock terminals therefore trucks are unable to access any terminal. The Port of Metro Vancouver has issued a statement dated February 25, 2014 commenting that they are committed to working with all stakeholders to enhance operational efficiencies.

The UTA and Port Metro Vancouver are meeting today, Wednesday February 26, 2014 in Vancouver.  More details will follow once available.

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

Further information can be accessed here