Tens of thousands of dockworkers on the East and Gulf Coasts have gone on strike, shutting down 36 ports and potentially disrupting holiday shopping. The strike, fueled by the International Longshoremen’s Association’s demand for a 77% pay increase over six years, could cost the U.S. economy $540 million daily. While large retailers are prepared, smaller businesses may face significant challenges due to potential delays and increased shipping costs. The strike’s impact extends beyond port closures, affecting major companies like Amazon, Apple, and Tesla, as well as consumer electronics and inventory. The timing of the strike, coinciding with the holiday season and a month before the presidential election, adds to its complexity and potential economic consequences.