Strike threat looms at eight Los Angeles, Long Beach terminals

Port watchmen represented by ILWU Local 26 may strike when the latest extension of their contract expires on Sunday, November 1, a dispute that could disrupt operations at eight terminals in Los Angeles and Long Beach, the busiest container port complex in the United States.

Why it matters: The complex handled a record 2.04 million TEU in September, and although the watchmen are a small bargaining unit separate from the coastwide longshore contract that runs through 2028, picket lines at terminal gates could widen the disruption if other maritime workers refuse to cross them.

Data as of gCaptain report of October 27, 2026, read in full in this run, reporting ILWU Local 26 President Luisa Gratz's letter of October 23, 2026 to fellow maritime unions. Single source; no strike has been called and the Pacific Maritime Association had not commented in the report. Developing item.

ILWU Local 26, which represents maritime security employees and watchmen at the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, has warned fellow maritime unions that its members may strike when the latest extension of their labor agreement with employers and the Pacific Maritime Association expires on November 1, gCaptain reported. Local 26 President Luisa Gratz wrote on October 23 that negotiations running since 2025 have been unsuccessful, that federal mediation requested by the association has produced nothing of value, and that the union is asking other maritime unions for support and solidarity.

The eight affected locations are APM Terminals, Long Beach Container Terminal, Total Terminals International, SSA at C-60, A-90 and LB 206, Pacific Container Terminal, and OH 55. The notice does not confirm that a strike will take place, and the extent of any disruption remains unclear; the International Organization of Masters, Mates and Pilots said it would give further guidance to members working at affected berths as the deadline approaches.

Strike threat looms at eight Los Angeles, Long Beach terminals

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