The ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach face potential disruption from Sunday 1 November 2026, as approximately 250 terminal security workers represented by the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) Local 26 prepare for possible strike action following an ongoing labour dispute.

Although negotiations remain underway, the possibility of industrial action has raised concerns over container terminal operations, vessel movements and inland cargo transportation across one of the United States' most important international shipping gateways.

No strike has been confirmed at this stage, but the potential consequences could extend beyond the security workforce if other port workers decline to cross established picket lines.

What is happening at the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach?

ILWU Local 26 represents approximately 250 security personnel responsible for monitoring terminal access, cargo security and other operational activities at facilities across the Los Angeles and Long Beach port complex.

The union's previous labour agreement expired in July 2025, with employees continuing to work under contract extensions while negotiations progressed with employers represented by the Pacific Maritime Association (PMA).

The latest extension is due to expire on Sunday 1 November 2026, with potential strike action authorised from 17:00 Pacific Time.

Despite ongoing negotiations supported by federal mediation, both parties have yet to reach an agreement.

The PMA has indicated that significant differences remain, although discussions are continuing in an effort to avoid industrial disruption.

How significant could the disruption be?

While the number of workers directly involved is relatively small, their responsibilities cover several strategically important container terminals.

According to the PMA, terminals employing the affected security personnel handle approximately:

• 85% of container cargo at the Port of Long Beach
• 33% of container cargo at the Port of Los Angeles

These figures represent the proportion of cargo handled by terminals potentially exposed to industrial action, rather than volumes already affected by disruption.

A key concern is the possibility of wider workforce participation. Other ILWU members may decline to cross picket lines established by striking security workers, potentially preventing normal operations at affected terminals.

Should this occur, disruption could extend to vessel loading and unloading, container handling, terminal gate activity and the movement of cargo between port facilities and inland transport networks.

The actual scale of any interruption would depend on the terminals affected, the participation of other workers and the duration of industrial action.

Potential implications for international supply chains

Los Angeles and Long Beach together form the busiest container port complex in the United States, supporting significant trade flows between North America, Asia and other international markets.

Any sustained interruption to terminal operations could affect both import and export shipments, particularly where cargo is already scheduled to arrive at or depart from the affected facilities.

Potential operational consequences include:

Vessel schedules and port operations

Disruption to terminal activities could delay vessel loading and unloading, create changes to scheduled departures and arrivals, and result in additional congestion as operations recover.

Container availability and collections

Restrictions on terminal access or reduced gate operations could prevent containers from being collected or returned as scheduled, potentially affecting deliveries and associated container return deadlines.

Inland transportation and distribution

Delays at port terminals could affect connected road and rail services, with possible consequences for inland distribution schedules and cargo availability.

Wider shipping schedules

Depending on the duration and severity of any industrial action, carriers may need to adjust vessel schedules or operational arrangements, potentially creating knock-on effects across connected international shipping services.

These remain potential consequences rather than confirmed disruption.

Existing congestion creates additional pressure

The threatened industrial action comes amid existing challenges affecting cargo movements through Southern California.

Recent industry reporting has highlighted elevated volumes of import containers awaiting onward rail transportation from the Los Angeles and Long Beach port complex.

These existing pressures could make the wider supply chain more vulnerable to additional disruption if industrial action proceeds.

However, it remains important to distinguish current operational congestion from any delays directly attributable to a future strike.

What should customers consider?

With the situation developing, customers importing or exporting cargo through Los Angeles and Long Beach should remain aware of the potential implications for upcoming shipments.

Where appropriate, businesses should review time-sensitive cargo movements, confirm terminal operating arrangements and monitor changes to scheduled collections, deliveries or vessel services.

Particular attention may be required for shipments approaching container collection or return deadlines, especially if restrictions affect normal access to terminal facilities.

Given the short notice and uncertainty surrounding any potential industrial action, alternative arrangements will depend on individual shipment circumstances, cargo status and available transport options.

Woodland Group monitoring developments

Woodland Group's teams across the United States are monitoring developments and maintaining communication with relevant local partners to assess the potential impact on cargo movements.

We recognise the importance of maintaining reliable international supply chains and will continue supporting customers with shipment-specific updates and guidance as further information becomes available.

At the time of publication on 29 October 2026, negotiations remain ongoing and no strike has been confirmed.

Further updates will be provided as the situation develops.

For information regarding current or upcoming shipments through Los Angeles or Long Beach, please contact your Woodland Group representative.