Trucking trade group to Gov. Newsom: Enforce law on port fees

California law AB 45 prevents ports and terminals from charging detention and demurrage fees for containers not picked up or empties not delivered when the facilities prevent drivers from picking up or delivering.

Sometimes, the authorities or facilities institute sudden rules changes that prevent delivery of empty containers or prevent pickup of specific cargo because of hours or appointments. These rules are troublesome and cost time for drivers. And often the drivers or their firms are the ones paying the fees.

The contention is that the ports are by their own actions forcing expenses on the trucking firms and drivers.

The law, if enforced, would keep ports and terminals from charging these fees. But how to enforce the law is not altogether clear.

Clarissa Hawes, Senior Editor, Investigations and Enterprise Friday, Novvember 5, 2021

Trucking trade group to Gov. Newsom: Enforce law on port fees – FreightWaves