Canadian strike could harm manufacturers

Manufacturing News, Source : The Manufacturer US
Published : 15 Jul 2005 15:28

A strike begun in late June by 1,000 Canadian truckers has shut down shipment of containers to and from manufacturers in British Columbia, many of whom carry little or no inventory, and are expecting to feel the impact shortly.

A strike begun in late June by 1,000 Canadian truckers has shut down shipment of containers to and from manufacturers in British Columbia, many of whom carry little or no inventory, and are expecting to feel the impact shortly.

Most of the products imported to the area are from China and other Asian countries. If the strike keeps up, it could mean a boon for nearby US ports such as Seattle, WA, and Tacoma, WA.

The truck drivers went on strike because rising fuel costs are making it impossible for truckers to make ends meet. It costs $350 Canadian per day to run a truck, they say, but they are only paid between $300 and $400 Canadian per day.

Many manufacturers in the area rely on these shipments, as their supplies are used on a just-in-time basis. The strike could thus affect a great many manufacturers in a short time.

Canadian federal and local governments have offered assistance in resolving the labor dispute.

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