Auto repair shops and dealerships prepare for shipment delays from dockworker strike
Local businesses tell News 12 that they are expecting significant delays on shipments of both new vehicles and parts.
About 45,000 dockworkers are still striking across the nation. The strike is expected to cause major delays on shipments, including for the auto industry.
News 12 talked with local auto repair shops and dealerships to see how they are preparing.
"If they know that they definitely need a repair, this is the time to get it done - as soon as possible - because parts are not going to be available soon if the strike continues," says Collin Redley at Dobbs Ferry Automotive.
That is the message from auto shops in Westchester right now for service repairs. It comes as they are expecting the strike to take a toll on when their products will be shipped and delivered.
At Sal's Auto Service in Scarsdale, the strike also causes concern for business.
"We are worried. We already have delays as it is," says Joseph Cermele with Sal's Auto Service. "Every day the dockworkers strike, it's going to affect us. It's going to put us back for days."
Local businesses tell News 12 that they are expecting significant delays on shipments of both new vehicles and parts.
Experts are predicting that the strike could strain supply chains, leading to billions of dollars in losses and making it difficult to meet demands.
"Parts availability can be shortened and the supply can be shortened if they're coming from international. Things that are made domestically are still going to be available," says Liam Tully with Rivera Toyota in Mount Kisco.
Businesses in Westchester County told News 12 they may not be feeling the direct effects of the strike and delays right now. But they’re expecting to feel it in the next week or two.
"This could potentially be resolved very quickly, and I think everyone's going that that's the case," says Tully.
Local businesses say they’re expecting prices for auto parts and services to go up, especially if the strike last multiple weeks.
"It just depends on how long the strike continues, that'll determine that. They're getting at least a 25% to 30% increase easily," says Redley.
