SCS Weekly Rundown | August 20th, 2024

Canadian Rail Strikes & Lockout Imminent

The Teamsters' Union issued their strike notice, slated to begin on August 22nd.

The Teamsters Canada Rail Conference scheduled a strike against CPKC for August 22nd over unresolved contract issues, while Canadian National Railway plans a simultaneous lockout due to stalled negotiations. These coordinated actions are poised to disrupt rail services significantly, affecting both commuter and freight operations alike throughout major Canadian cities.

Read the latest on this story here.
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Port of Long Beach Sets New July Record

Another record-breaking month is a great sign heading into peak season.

The Port of Long Beach experienced a record-breaking July, marking one of the busiest months in its entire history. This increase was fueled by early inventory movements and concerns about East Coast disruptions. Port officials highlight that strong partnerships and operational efficiency have set the stage for a successful peak shipping season.

Learn more about this trend by clicking here.
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Maersk Exploring Nuclear-Powered Ships

A.P. Moller-Maersk joined a study on the feasibility of nuclear-powered vessels.

Maersk is evaluating nuclear power as a decarbonization option for container shipping, actively participating in a study that examines both the safety and regulatory challenges in the realm. This initiative is part of Maersk's broader strategy to explore various fuel alternatives that could serve as a catalyst for reducing emissions across the maritime industry.

Dive into the details surrounding this story here.

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Illinois Court Decision Poses Risk for Carriers

A federal ruling may lead to increased litigation for carriers operating in the state.

This recent federal court ruling in Illinois could expose any carrier operating in the state to lawsuits, regardless of their base location or the miles driven there. The ruling determined that truck drivers who were classified as independent contractors are actually employees, raising the potential legal risks for carriers under the state's Wage Act.

Explore this situation as it unfolds here.

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Dax Steenbergen