New York Teamsters ratify first contract with DHL

In a huge step in the Teamsters campaign to bring union representation to workers at DHL, the international package and freight carrier, more than 300 recently organized members of Teamster Locals 851 and 295 ratified their first contract at the DHL gateway at JFK Airport in New York City.

This is the first time that the Teamsters have represented a 24-hour, seven-day a week international plane hub at JFK airport. And it is the first of several DHL gateways in which the Teamsters Union have won an election to reach a first contract.

“The contract negotiated by our Locals in New York City is historic, and shows the way to union representation for DHL employees across the country as the company expands its presence in the U.S. market. We look forward to a positive relationship with DHL,” said Jim Hoffa, Teamsters General President.

According to Teamster Local 295 President Lou Calemine, “This is a great victory for the workers and a huge milestone for the Teamsters Union.” As a result of the contract, workers will receive 100 percent paid health care, a pension, seniority and bidding rights, guaranteed work hours, and increased wages and fringe benefits.

Teamsters Freight Division Director Tyson Johnson called the contract “a major step in our efforts to win strong contracts for workers at DHL.”

In addition, the Teamsters have organized workers at 33 independent cartage contractors that deliver packages for DHL, part of a comprehensive Teamster effort to bring representation to workers in the DHL system.

SOURCE International Brotherhood of Teamsters