More than 70 truck drivers carrying cargo from the Port of Los Angeles are on strike Thursday over wage changes and increased medical costs.
The Southern County Express Driver is a subsidiary of dozens of Universal Logistics Holdings subsidiaries, demanding contract negotiations outside the Compton Area Truck Depot around 5am.
“They were forced to change our pay so we were on a timely basis and now we were actively loaded,” said Jocelyn, a strike truck driver. He spoke to KTLA’s Annie Rose Ramos. She said the change is not their contract and they are also facing a rise in health costs.
“They increase our health insurance from $30 a week. For me, three families give or take $180 a week,” Jocelyn said.
Los Angeles truck drivers attack dozens of ports on February 20, 2025 (KTLA)
Jocelyn and other drivers imported imported cargo from several companies, including Toyota, Walmart and Ross, from the Port of LA to inland warehouses and distribution centres.
“We’re out of the port. We used to get around $31 per hour, but now we’re paid per load. Some of the fees are around $20, depending on the location.” says Jocelyn.
The shipping company responded to the strike Thursday morning in the following statement:
The Southern County Express is disappointed with the Union’s decision to strike. The company explained the financial difficulties to the union, and the union ignored pleas for our help. The company has established the best offers. This includes several items requested by the union.
Under the company’s offer, many drivers receive higher wages. And those who don’t like offers have the option to make a voluntary acquisition.
Southern Counties Express does it all with its power to protect the employment security of our customers and team members. The company’s doors remain open for further negotiations with the union.
Southern County Express
Jocelyn said the impressive truck driver won’t go anywhere until he sees some changes.
“We want to influence them and hope this gives us the opportunity to renegotiate,” she said.
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