Chronic port congestion and extended turn times represent the biggest challenge to the intermodal trucking industry. One important change that must be implemented is to increase gate hours at all terminals, allowing for longer shifts to accommodate the current level of container volume, as well as the anticipated increase in volume now that the Bayonne Bridge expansion is completed. We must establish and maintain consistent levels of service at the terminals, and requiring uniform gate hours across all terminals is a long-overdue solution.
Another concern is the increasing cost of doing business, and trying stay competitive with other ports. Over the past year, the transportation industry in our region has been hit with toll increases, motor fuel tax increases, extended turn times and on-terminal congestion. We also face aggressive over-regulation due to pressure from environmental groups, who blame local air pollution on port trucks, even though independent studies have consistently proved that our emissions represent the smallest fraction of the problem. This had exacerbated the chronic driver shortages in our industry, as independent owner-operators either choose to work at ports that are less restrictive, or leave the intermodal industry altogether.
We also need relief from the unreasonable practices put forth by some of the terminals in regard to the assessment of detention, demurrage, and per diem fees. We hope the Federal Maritime Commission will step in to address these concerns this year.