It is not really surprising, but now it has become reality, the congestion surcharge for the USA West Coast ports. CMA circulates as follows:

 

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Dear Valued Customer,
By now we are sure that you are aware of the ongoing labor difficulties on the US West Coast. The situation has impacted terminal and vessel operations to the point where normal business is simply not possible to continue, and extraordinary costs are being incurred at every step of cargo movement.

 

 
The unfortunate result of this is that we will be forced to trigger the Port Congestion Surcharge that was filed in 2012 in anticipation of possible labor action.

 

 

The surcharge will be effective for all cargo discharging at US West Coast ports on or after November 17, 2014. The surcharge will remain in effect until advised otherwise, and will be applicable for all cargo and equipment types.

 

 
We remain hopeful that the PMA and ILWU will resolve the pending labor issues and that the situation will thereafter quickly return to normal, allowing us to withdraw this surcharge.

 

 
For reference purposes, the quantum of the surcharge is as follows:
Size Type Level (USD)
20’ (all types) $800
40’ (all types) $1000
45’ (all types) $1266
53’ (all types) $1600

 

 
We thank you for your understanding and patience during this challenging situation, and assure you that we are doing everything in our power to continue to keep your supply chain moving as quickly and efficiently as is possible under the circumstances.

 
Should you have any questions regarding this surcharge, please contact your CMA CGM sales representative.

 

 

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