Several ocean carriers are preparing to implement surcharges due to a potential strike at East and Gulf Coast ports if the International Longshoremen’s Association’s contract is not renewed by January 15. Negotiations have stalled over automation issues but are set to resume soon. If a strike occurs, it could severely disrupt global trade, leading to delays and increased costs. Carriers like MSC, CMA CGM, and Hapag-Lloyd have announced specific surcharges to cover operational disruptions, while others, like Maersk, are monitoring the situation without current surcharges but are developing contingency plans.