June 5th, 2025 – More than a week after the Port of Manzanillo resumed operations following a customs workers’ strike, long delays and staff shortages continue to severely impact cargo flow. The port, one of Mexico’s most critical trade gateways, remains overwhelmed, with customs backlogs threatening to push some transporters to the brink of collapse.
The strike, which took place from May 12th to May 15th, was triggered by allegations of workplace harassment and demands for improved working conditions, increased staffing, and extended customs hours. While the Mexican navy, which oversees customs clearance at all ports, declared full operations had resumed by May 21st, the recovery has been far from smooth.
Transporters are experiencing extreme delays, with some customs inspections taking more than 72 hours per container. The congestion has left container yards overwhelmed, with drivers often stranded for long periods in poor conditions. In some cases, the wait has been so prolonged that drayage drivers have required medical attention due to heat exhaustion while sitting idle in their trucks.
According to Mexico’s National Chamber of Freight Transport (Canacar), the situation is escalating into a full-blown crisis. Many carriers are facing critical financial strain after days of disrupted operations. Payments to leasing and insurance companies, suppliers, and even payroll obligations have already been missed by some.
The Association of Maquiladora and Export Manufacturing Industries Occident estimates the port could lose up to $150 million in revenue due to the delays. It may take up to five weeks for operations to return to normal, as reported by El Economista.
Manzanillo handles nearly 45% of Mexico’s containerized ocean cargo and processes approximately 4,000 truck movements per day. In 2024 alone, the port managed close to 4 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs). The continued backlog is rippling through supply chains nationwide, affecting industry, commerce, and consumers.
Calls for federal intervention are mounting. Canacar has urged authorities at all levels – federal, customs, port, and state – to form a crisis committee and implement coordinated, immediate solutions to stabilize the port and restore logistics flow. Despite the growing pressure, the Mexican federal government has yet to issue an official response.
Trans-Border will continue to monitor the situation and advise customers accordingly. Should you have any questions, contact us or give us a call at 518-785-6000.
