The Port of Montreal has been experiencing severe congestion issues due to high container volumes and a lack of labour available to handle this peak.
Container imports increased 7.8 percent, to nearly 4.33 million tonnes, in the first seven months of this year versus the same period in 2017, with the bulk of that traffic coming from Europe. Montreal port officials feel the free trade deal between Canada and the European Union is one explanation for this increase in container shipping via the port.
In response to this situation, the Maritime Employers Association (MEA) just announced the creation of 65 new full-time positions at the Port of Montreal. These new positions are in addition to the extension of the terminal gate opening hours, however, it takes time to hire and train employees, so impacts will not be immediate.
Shippers will also face increased fees for cargo transiting Montreal terminals via truck. Termont Terminal has assessed a flat rate of $35.00 per loaded container going through its terminals, which was implemented starting September 17th, billed to the trucking companies, mirroring fees assessed by Montreal Gateway Terminals earlier.
We will continue to monitor this situation and advise accordingly.
For more information, please call David Lychek, Manager &ndash Ocean & Air Services at (905) 882-4880, ext. 207.
