Trucking Company Adapts Post-Baltimore Bridge Collapse, Port Reopening Hits Milestone

When the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse closed the Port of Baltimore, Baltimore International Warehousing and Transportation (BIWT) had to pivot fast. Cargo that used to come through Baltimore now had to reroute through Virginia and New York.

Impact on Business:

• Cargo Delay: With containers rerouted to the Ports of Norfolk and New York, freight delays meant lost revenue.
• Job Losses: Founder Sue Monaghan had to lay off most of her drivers; a big hit to employees and families.

Finding Solutions:

• Grants and Retention: A state retention grant allowed Monaghan to rehire all 16 drivers, keeping them on payroll and working.
• New Routes, New Business: The company secured permits to haul from Norfolk and Philadelphia ports, ensuring they could keep cargo moving.

Updates on Port Reopening:

• Milestone Achieved: On April 28, MSC Passion III was the first container ship to arrive at Seagirt Terminal since the collapse, carrying nearly 1,000 containers.
• Temporary Channels: The port operates with three open channels of 20, 14, and 11-foot depths, while the main channel remains closed for repairs and recovery.

Sources: Marketplace | USA Today