More US port congestion fears as freight volumes grow

United States freight volumes are expected to grow by around 29% over the next 11 years, largely due to greater energy production levels and pipelines taking a larger share of total tonnage, reports the Journal of Commerce (JOC).

But, the advent of growing volumes could result in greater congestion problems at a number of US ports, warned maritime publication, Port Technology, after it took three months to clear the backlog of recent congestion at West Coast ports.

The congestion was the result of a port shutdown during a labour dispute between the International Longshore Workers’ Union and the Pacific Maritime Association.

Port Technology reports that US West Coast ports have since become operational but have seen much of their volumes slide over to the East Coast as shippers remain cautious of potential imminent congestion problems.