It may take months to clear the backlog of export and import containers at U.S. West Coast ports, and a number of shippers are seeking to resolve issues related to port demurrage charges and other fees and costs associated with the past and ongoing congestion. The ability to pick up cargo or return equipment during the strike was largely beyond the shippers’ control, and several business groups have asked the U.S. Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) to intervene on this matter. The FMC is encouraging companies who are challenging port charges to contact their Office of Consumer Affairs and Dispute Resolution, which offers dispute resolution services for cargo shipments. The office can be reached by phone at (202)-523-5807, or email: complaints@fmc.gov.
Article written by Rob Neenan, California League of Food Processors, President and CEO
California League Of Food Producers