Amid unprecedented tariffs, truck drivers like Helen, who delivers cargo containers from the Los Angeles and Long Beach harbors, are facing significant challenges. After a strong start to the year, job opportunities have begun to decline, with reports predicting a sharp drop in incoming cargo for May and June. Helen, a 38-year-old mother of three, finds it difficult to make ends meet even under normal conditions. She expressed concern about the potential struggles ahead if ships stop coming in, leading to no loads and consequently no work or money. President Trump’s tariffs are affecting not only business owners but also the workers at the country’s busiest port. Thousands of dockworkers, heavy equipment operators, and truck drivers support activities at the Port of Los Angeles, which processed over 10 million 20-foot-long cargo units in 2024. With tariffs on China, Canada, Mexico, and other countries, the flow of goods into the U.S. is expected to slow drastically. Fewer shipments mean less work for Californians who move cargo. Raman Dhillon, CEO of the North American Punjabi Trucking Assn., stated that truckers are scrambling and nearing collapse. U.S. Sen. Alex Padilla and others warned of lost jobs, higher prices, and empty shelves due to these tariffs. A 2023 report highlighted the ports’ contribution to local revenue and job creation. A slight decline in cargo could result in significant job losses. Port officials predict a substantial drop in arrivals over the next few weeks, impacting longshoremen and other port workers. Navdeep Gill, a Northern California trucking company owner, reported moving significantly less cargo due to the tariffs. This decline affects not only truckers but also warehouse workers and logistics teams.
— new from Los Angeles Times
