Dennis Daggett, Vice President of the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA), has strongly refuted recent media reports criticizing the efficiency of US ports, labeling them as “inaccurate and irresponsible.”
Daggett contends that these claims are based on flawed interpretations of data that overlook critical operational differences between US ports and transshipment hubs worldwide.
Daggett specifically addressed comparisons made in the World Bank and S&P Global Market Intelligence survey, which included ports like Dar es Salaam in Tanzania and Pointe-Noire in the Republic of Congo.
“These rankings heavily favor transshipment hubs, which operate very differently from US ports,” Daggett explained. “Transshipment ports mainly transfer containers between vessels with minimal involvement in inland logistics.
In contrast, US ports are full-service gateways managing a complex mix of imports, exports, and domestic distribution through integrated rail, trucking, and warehousing systems. Comparing the two is like comparing apples to oranges.”
Daggett emphasized the significant volume and complexity handled by US ports. The Port of Los Angeles processes over 9 million TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) annually, while the Port of New York and New Jersey manages around 9.5 million TEUs.
“These ports play a critical role in a supply chain that spans thousands of miles, delivering goods to distribution centers and rail networks across the country,” he said. “Their scale and operational demands far exceed those of most transshipment hubs.”
Daggett criticized the World Bank study for prioritizing metrics like vessel turnaround times, which naturally benefit transshipment hubs focused solely on unloading and reloading containers.
“US ports must accommodate time-intensive processes such as customs clearance, intermodal transfers, and stringent safety and security protocols mandated by US law,” Daggett noted. “Excluding these factors skews efficiency rankings and creates a misleading narrative.”
Recognizing Worker Contributions
Despite these challenges, Daggett praised the exceptional productivity of longshore workers represented by the ILA and other unions.
“Ports operated by ILA members consistently rank among the most reliable globally for throughput and reliability,” he said. “This is a testament to the hard work and dedication of unionized workers who ensure smooth cargo flow despite mounting pressures.”
The ILA and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX), which represents terminal operators and ocean carriers along the East and Gulf Coasts, remain in conflict over the adoption of semi-automation technology at ports.
In October, the ILA ended a three-day strike by agreeing to extend workers’ contracts until January 15, 2025, allowing both parties time to negotiate on automation and other unresolved issues.
With the deadline fast approaching, the outcome of these talks could significantly impact the future of port operations.
