Shipping updates – Weather Alerts, OICT Fee, Holiday Closures
Weather Alerts
Summer season across North America and Europe serves as a reminder to take steps to protect cargo, from collection to delivery. Weather forecast indicate temperatures around 30⁰C / 86⁰F in France for next week. Temperature predictions for North America for July through September indicate above average levels, according to an article on weather.com. For any sailings that have to change vessels at a transshipment port (Manzanillo, Balboa, Cartagena, Freeport, etc.) be aware that schedule disruptions have meant longer stays in these areas and cargo protection is critical.
Meanwhile for Argentina shipments moving across the Andes to Chile, winter weather disruptions have begun affecting travel on the international border pass. Updates on the road status are published by CF Los Libertadores here (site is in Spanish but they post pictures of the snow covered pass).
Hillebrand provides various options for protecting your cargo no matter the weather, from operating reefer trucks and containers, to container or pallet insulation. Read more about the impact of temperature on wine and beer in transit here.
Port of Oakland – Reminder OICT Container Fee Increases in July
As a reminder to our communication back in April, the Oakland International Container Terminal (OICT) will increase the gate fee from $30 to $35 effective July 6, 2020. No information has been released on the annual PierPass review for Los Angeles / Long Beach yet.
Holiday Closures
- June 19th, 2020 – The International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) at 29 US West Coast ports are observing an 8 hour work stoppage in observance of Juneteenth and to show commitment to the cause of racial equity and social justice.
- July 3rd, 2020 – Hillebrand offices will be closed on Friday in observance of July 4th holiday. Please note with closures that customs filing deadlines still apply on international freight arrivals. Port terminals will also be closed or operating on reduced holiday schedules.
- July 28th, 2020: Harry Bridges Birthday is an ILWU holiday for US West Coast ports, honoring his role in forming and leading the ILWU.
NASA and Hillebrand are here to help you navigate this ever changing environment and organize transport solutions for your business needs. Updates are provided regularly on Hillebrand’s website by country and for the North American market. We thank you for your continued support; please reach out for any questions.