April 1st- The Negotiations last week resulted in significant progress and we are very optimistic that there will be a tentative agreement soon. The schedule for April is as follows:

April 8th - 12th in Kansas City

April 15th - 19th in Dallas, Texas

March 28th 2013- Negotiations continued this week with ABF, for a successor to the 2008-13 ABF National Master Freight Agreement. Slow progress continues to be made. However, significant issues remain to be discussed. ABF requested a 30-day extension so that negotiations could continue. The Teamsters National Freight Industry Negotiating Committee (TNFINC) agreed to grant a 30-day extension. Any economic improvements in a new agreement will be retroactive to April 1, 2013. As a result, the current ABF-NMFA is extended through and including April 30, 2013. All ABF employees covered by that agreement should continue to work as normal. Members covered by separate stand-alone contracts between ABF and their local unions should contact their local unions for updates.

Teamsters, ABF Continue ‘Difficult and Complex’ Negotiations (update from March 15th)

The Teamsters National Freight Industry Negotiating Committee (TNFINC) concluded another week of negotiations with ABF. Negotiations continue to be difficult and the company continues to seek significant concessions in both economic and non-economic matters. TNFINC is continuing to try to seek ways to address the company’s legitimate competitive and operational needs while at the same time protecting good middle class jobs and standards.

Gordon Sweeton said, “These negotiations are difficult and complex. We understand the company needs some relief. However, we are not willing to let the company destroy the standards we have fought for and established. While we have made some progress this week, much remains to be done. Fortunately, we have a skilled and talented bargaining team that understands the freight industry so we remain hopeful that an agreement can be reached..." To view all past ABF Updates, Click Here.