After a tentative agreement had been announced between the British Columbia Maritime Employers Association (BCMEA) and International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) in Canada on June 13th, the ILWU voted down the mediators’ recommended terms of settlement of the previously announced tentative four-year agreement. As a result, workers of the ILWU went on strike again late on July 18th, effectively shutting down operations at the Ports of Vancouver and Prince Rupert until further notice. Up until July 1st, the ILWU in Canada had been working without a contract since the expiration previous agreement on March 31st, 2023.

The situation is fluid and evolving. It is anticipated that both sides will resume negotiations on July 19th; however, there is no known timeline for the finalization of contract terms between the BCMEA and ILWU in Canada. Until a resolution is met and ratified by the ILWU in Canada, delays are expected for local and intermodal cargo moving via Vancouver and Prince Rupert. RIM representatives are currently working with our carriers closely to assess near-term routing options.

RIM logistics, ltd. will continue to closely monitor the situation and keep you advised of any updates as they become known. Please contact your RIM representative should you have any questions or need additional information.