Southern California labor negotiations Update

25 Jul 2007

ILWU Local 63, The Office Clerical Unit (OCU), representing office clerks at the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, reached an impasse with 17 ocean carriers and marine terminal operators July 24 after two months of contract negotiations. APL is part of the carrier and terminal operator negotiating group.

Port and terminal operations continue uninterrupted at the ports. There is no word on when contract negotiations will resume. The two sides have been attempting to resolve compensation and benefits issues.

The OCU contract expired June 30. The union had previously set a July 15 strike deadline. To date, however, there has been no disruption at the ports.

We can’t predict when talks might resume or if OCU employees might walk off the job. However, APL and the other carriers and terminal operators in the negotiating group are making every effort to reach agreement. We’re also urging the OCU to work with us to keep ports open and running smoothly.

In the meantime, here are actions customers can take:

• Check APL.com for updates on the negotiations and the status of port operations;
• Expedite cargo pick-up from the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach; and
• Contact your APL representative for information on alternative shipping gateways.

This is an unsettling time for everyone who relies on the nation’s busiest port complex. We’ll do our best to keep you informed and your business running smoothly.