Canada

Port news

Vancouver

Members may be aware of an on going labour dispute at the Port of Vancouver which has particularly affected trucking services. This has had an effect on processing boxes in and out of the port with delays being the result. While the matter is on going, and there has been a reported increase in trucks working again, there may be continued delays until the issues are resolved.

Key Point
Members trading to and from Vancouver, particularly in the box sector, should check their contracts for detention charges and delay provisions which may affect them should their boxes suffer delays during this period. If Members are concerned they should contact the Association.

Bulk Shipments

At present rail services in the province of British Columbia are suffering disruption which has impacted on the rate of all bulk cargoes being delivered to ports for shipment. This may particularly affect grain shipments. While work continues to bring services back on track, there are reports of vessels suffering significant delays at anchorage waiting for cargoes.

Key Point
Members should review their contracts for terms including: the issuing of Notices of Readiness (so that laytime may commence) and clauses providing exceptions or interruptions to either laytime or demurrage. In case of concern, the Association can assist Members in this regard.

In case of further enquiry, Members are asked to contact the Association: lossprevention@skuld.com.