TSI to continue to handle US-bound cargo

TSI Terminal Systems, the largest container terminal operator in Port Metro Vancouver, is to continue to accept US-bound rail cargo diverted from US West Coast ports at its Deltaport and Vanterm terminals while contract negotiations continue between the International Longshore and Warehouse Union and the Pacific Maritime Association.

The move is in direct contrast to the announcement by DP World Vancouver that it will no longer handle such traffic at its Centerm terminal because of a lack of railcars.  According to local reports, ports on Canada’s Pacific Coast ports have been “deluged” with US-bound cargo during the negotiations.

Although the various parties failed to reach agreement on a new contract by the 1 July deadline, cargo through the US ports has been moving unhindered; however, some importers and exporters have diverted shipments as a safeguard against possible disruption at the ports involved.