Following last year’s on-off labour disputes throughout ports in the US and Canada, it appears that Northern Europe has become the latest hotspot for industrial action amongst port-workers and congestion.

After last weekend’s strike, and subsequent port closure, Rotterdam is braced for continuing disruption due to a dispute over port automation between unions and one of its terminal operators. The action has already led to delays and some voyages skipping the port.

Ongoing actions from the union are expected to vary from slowdowns to full strikes and may not be announced upfront, making it difficult to predict exactly how operations will be disrupted.

In France, dockworkers have already begun a series of strikes over pension reforms, which is having an impact on its largest container port in Le Havre.

Four hour stoppages will be effective today, along with February 20th and 24th. This is due to be followed by a three day 24-hour strike between February 26th and 28th.

Congestion is impacting Bremerhaven, which is currently experiencing waiting times of around three days. As reported last month, Felixstowe’s waiting times are anywhere between 10 and 21 days at present.

As ever, the team at Westbound are monitoring developments closely, should you require further information, then please do not hesitate to contact a member of the team.

If you have any questions regarding the above, then Westbound are here to help. So, please do not hesitate to contact us.