MARAD: U.S. Vessels Can Clear West Coast Backlog

Maritime Administrator Captain William G. Schubert highlighted the capabilities of the U.S.-Flag fleet in an effort to respond to allegations that U.S.-flag vessels are not available to ease present cargo congestion in West Coast ports. "Qualified Jones Act vessels are standing by with available tonnage on the West Coast to assist any shipper or carrier in moving cargo forward as necessary," Schubert stated. Schubert added, "The Maritime Administration is carefully evaluating all potential alternatives that would alleviate congestion in the ports, and expedite the delivery of cargo to its final destination. We would strongly encourage all non Jones Act qualified carriers to consider utilizing the available domestic carriers for this purpose." According to the U.S. Maritime Administration’s Office of Ports and Domestic Shipping, U.S.-flag coastwise qualified companies available for carriage of West Coast cargo are as follows: CSX-LINES - will divert a ship if necessary to pick up cargo in LA to ease port congestion for Oakland or provide other lifts to ease congestion. Chuck Raymond (CEO) specifically cites the CSX ENTERPRISE (1,000 FEU) as ready for service. For service Raymond can be reached at 704-973-7006. NAKNEK Marine of Seattle - has tugs and barges available to reposition containers. For service, Jim Harper can be reached at 206-658-0222. NAKNEK's services may also be arranged through Northland Services: www.northlandservices.com . CROWLEY MARINE SERVICES, INC. - has Jones Act qualified tugs and barges available on the West Coast for use in repositioning containers. For service, please call Chris Peterson at 206-332-8023, e-mail [email protected], or contact the company through its web site, www.crowley.com. FOSS MARITIME - has West Coast container capable barges, and the tow vessels to support them for a wide range of repositioning projects. For service, Marlin Schoonmacher can be reached at 206-281-3982. TOTEM OCEAN TRAILER EXPRESS – has the ability to reposition one of their three Alaskan ships to move cargo in the Jones Act trade or carry foreign cargo as early as December if necessary. For use of a TOTE ship, please contact, Bill Deaver, Senior VP and Chief Operating Officer, at 253-449-8144.