Learn how a looming port strike could impact South Florida

MIAMI – Cargo shipped in shipping containers could stall at many East Coast and Gulf ports, including Port Miami and Port Everglades.

Current contract of the members of the International Longshoremen's Association expires Tuesday at midnight. A strike would be the first port strike on the East Coast since 1977.

Johnnie Dixon, president of the local Fort Lauderdale chapter, said, “Our members earn a maximum of $39 (per hour). We expect an increase of 77%, almost 77%, over the next seven years. If you look at it, the cost of inflation is more than reasonable.”

Some economists say a prolonged strike could lead to retail shortages and price increases.

“We're talking about how it could be something as simple as bananas from Central America. Alcohol,” said Craig Austin, an associate professor at Florida International University who specializes in logistics and supply chain issues. “It could be cars or car parts.”

It is worrying for buyers.

“The prices are already terribly high,” said buyer Sandy Barrett. “A lot of people can’t afford to just go to the grocery store. I saw prices going up.”

At PortMiami, fruits and vegetables, clothing and machinery are the main goods entering and leaving the port. Gasoline deliveries at Port Everglades and the huge cruise industry in South Florida are not affected.

“If a family goes on vacation from South Florida on one of the cruise ships, it won't be impacted because they don't want to go near it,” Austin said.

If a strike occurs, freight transport will not stop completely. Although most longshoremen are members of the longshoremen's union, some are not. Port Everglades said a strike would affect 41% of container cargo.

Port Everglades and Port Miami have set up areas where striking workers can picket.