The Assn. of Bi-State Motor Carriers Inc. has petitioned the Federal Maritime Commission to investigate what it calls the "egregious unreasonable practices" of some members of the New York Terminal Conference.

Specifically, the association refers to truck detention at three terminals, as well as rates, tariffs, charges and rules.
"This action has been a long time coming," said Jeffrey Alan Bader, association president. "It negatively impacts our area in many ways. Goods get to market late and trucks waiting in line cause additional pollution factors."
He said his organization is concerned that frustrated shippers and carriers may route through other ports.
"Waiting in line for two to four hours means that most truckers can only make one or two deliveries a day, rather than the four of five they should. They cannot make a living," said Dick Jones, association executive director.
The 30-page petition has been specifically directed at American Stevedoring Inc., Port Newark Container Terminal, Universal Maritime Service Corp. and the New York Terminal Conference.
The Bi-State is made up of more than 40 members, at least 80% of which are trucking companies servicing the port.