Stress On Western Rails Could Last Through Fall

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ailroads struggling to cope with higher-than-usual freight volumes and a labor shortage at the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, Calif., have caused congestion there that could last throughout the fall, industry representatives said.

The two West Coast ports, the busiest container facilities in the nation, received 14% more freight from January through May over the same time last year, said Art Wong, a spokesman for Long Beach.

“Volume is up more than expected and earlier than expected,” said Steve Sugerman, a spokesman for the International Longshore and Warehouse Union. “Imports for May 2004 are up 24% over May 2003.”

Historically, the busy season for the ports has begun at the end of July or early August when back-to-school and holiday merchandise arrives, Wong said.

For the full story, see the July 12 print edition of Transport Topics. Subscribe today.