(Toronto, July 22, 2010)… Due to the continuing labor problems at the Port of Montreal, major shipping lines are diverting vessels to the Port of Halifax and charging an additional fee to move cargo to final destination. For example, MSC’s premium to move freight by rail from Halifax to Toronto is CAD $635.00 per 20 FT Container/CAD $935.00 per 40 FT Container.
OOCL Canada has also advised it will not be accepting any new export bookings until they are able to finalize future sailing schedules. We expect similar announcements from other carriers
At the same time, negotiations to end the work stoppage are expected to start today as the dispute threatens to spark layoffs and delay projects for many firms who now have vital cargo delayed due to this labor dispute.
We will continue to monitor this situation closely and advise accordingly.
For more information please call (905) 882-4880 David Lychek, Manager – Ocean & Air Services.
