The strikes and disruptions of 2024 caused significant challenges for logistics networks, halting shipments and revealing weak points across industries. As we move into 2025, preparing for potential disruptions is crucial to maintaining smooth operations and staying competitive. To help you stay proactive, we’re offering five actionable strategies to keep your supply chain resilient and strike-ready in the year ahead.

Reflecting on 2024 Strikes

Before planning for what’s ahead, it’s helpful to briefly understand the scale of last year’s challenges. Some key strikes in 2024 included:

• –West Coast Ports: The International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) strikes disrupted operations at major gateways like Los Angeles and Long Beach, delaying goods from Asia.
• –East Coast and Gulf Ports: Over 36 ports, including New York and New Jersey, faced shutdowns during the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) strike in October.
• –Canadian Ports: Strikes at Vancouver and Prince Rupert stalled trans-Pacific trade routes, impacting industries reliant on agricultural exports and mineral shipments.
• –Canadian Railways: Nationwide rail strikes by the Teamsters Canada Rail Conference disrupted grain, lumber and manufactured goods transport.

These challenges taught businesses critical lessons about the unpredictability of supply chain disruptions and the need to be prepared for anything. In 2024, it became clear that having flexible contingency plans, diversified supply chains and technologies for quick, informed decision-making are essential for staying ahead in uncertain times.

Here’s five ways to prepare your operations for strikes in 2025:

1. Monitor Labor Relations

Stay informed about labor negotiations and potential strike risks, as disruptions from labor relations are expected to continue to impact the supply chain in 2025. While recent agreements between port employers and labor unions have provided stability, ongoing discussions around wages, working conditions and automation could still pose challenges. Be sure to regularly keep an eye on news, industry publications and reliable sources for the latest updates.

2. Diversify Logistics Strategies

To prepare for potential disruptions, consider developing contingency plans that include diversifying transportation strategies. Incorporating multimodal options—such as trucking, rail and ocean freight—can provide the flexibility needed to navigate not only labor-related challenges but also tariff uncertainties and geopolitical factors like U.S.-China relations and USMCA negotiations.

3. Strengthen Regional Networks and Build Contingency Inventory

Reduce reliance on centralized hubs by expanding regional distribution networks and strengthening supplier relationships in multiple locations. For example, if a key port is delayed, nearby alternative suppliers or distribution centers can help maintain steady operations.

Nearshoring, or sourcing from nearby regions, can also be a valuable strategy to mitigate risks while balancing labor costs and supply chain stability. Additionally, stockpiling critical materials or goods closer to your key markets provides an extra layer of protection against disruptions, helping to prevent delays and minimize unexpected costs.

4. Leverage Technology for Visibility and Communication

Invest in logistics technology with real-time tracking and predictive analytics to spot disruptions early and respond proactively. For instance, tracking tools can alert you to potential delays, making it easier to reroute shipments before issues escalate.

Technology also helps improve communication by providing centralized platforms for updates. A real-time tracking system, for instance, can automatically alert suppliers and carriers of delays, keeping everyone aligned and minimizing confusion during strikes or other disruptions.

5. Partner with Experienced Logistics Providers

Collaborate with logistics providers who specialize in navigating complex supply chain disruptions. Experienced partners like Ascent Global Logistics offer resilient, flexible solutions tailored to your specific challenges. When unexpected disruptions occur, having an expert partner in your corner can protect your bottom line and keep your operations on track.

Stay Ahead with Ascent’s Dedicated Team by Your Side

The labor strikes of last year served as a wake-up call for supply chain professionals, revealing vulnerabilities and strengths in North America’s logistics networks. Moving into 2025, businesses must shift from reacting to disruptions to actively preparing for them. By applying the lessons of the past year, companies can build their supply chains into resilient, agile and future-ready systems.

At Ascent Global Logistics, we specialize in creating tailored, forward-thinking strategies to help businesses overcome supply chain challenges. We leverage innovative technology alongside expert knowledge to provide proactive solutions that keep your shipments moving.

Let’s work together to position your supply chain for success in 2025 and beyond. Contact us today.