Federal Maritime Commission Chairman Mario Cordero will hold a forum next month entitled, "U.S. Port Congestion: Examining Causes, Impact on Stakeholders, and Exploring Possible Solutions."

The goal is to promote dialogue on the causes and implications of congestion at U.S. ports, according to the commission. Industry stakeholders, regulators and the general public are encouraged to take part.

Among the topics that will be discussed are:

• Factors causing port congestion

• Truck turn times

• Impact on stakeholders

• Use of technology to reduce congestion and related fees

• PierPass

The event is scheduled for Monday, Sept. 15, from 9:30 am to 4:00 pm at the Port of Los Angeles Administration Building in San Pedro, Calif.

Following the forum Cordero will report back to the full commission details of the meeting.

A second forum will be held by Commissioner William Doyle, tentatively scheduled for Oct 1 at the World Trade Center, Baltimore Inner Harbor.

The events come as trucking, shippers and receivers are dealing with increasing delays and congestion at container ports, along with a shortage of container chassis.

It is doubtful the forums will lead to new regulations with Cordero telling the Journal of Commerce in June that he has “no interest in telling marine terminal operators how to conduct their business” rather he is hoping they will lead to people getting together to come up with solutions to problems.

More information is on the FMC website.