Hundreds of Amazon delivery drivers in New York City have joined the Teamsters union, seeking better pay and working conditions. The union claims that a majority of drivers at three delivery service partners (DSPs) operating out of a Queens warehouse have signed authorization cards.
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| New York City Amazon delivery drivers have joined the Teamsters union, seeking better pay, working conditions, and benefits. The move follows months of organizing efforts and a nationwide strike. Image Courtesy: Amazon |
New York City - September 17, 2024:
Hundreds of Amazon delivery drivers in the city have joined the Teamsters union, marking a significant step in their fight for improved pay and working conditions. The move comes after months of organizing efforts and a nationwide strike last December.
The drivers, employed by three delivery service partners (DSPs) operating out of a Queens warehouse, have expressed frustration with Amazon's alleged unfair labor practices, including inconsistent schedules, unreasonable workloads, and poorly maintained trucks. According to the Teamsters, a majority of drivers at each DSP have signed authorization cards, signaling strong support for union representation.
While joining the union offers the drivers greater leverage in negotiations with Amazon, the company's history of resisting unionization efforts raises concerns about the potential challenges ahead. The Amazon Labor Union, another successful organization effort, has yet to secure a union contract despite forming two years ago.
However, recent developments may bode well for the Teamsters. A National Labor Relations Board director recently ruled that Amazon is a joint employer of some third-party drivers in California, a decision that could set a precedent for other DSP drivers. This victory has emboldened the Queens drivers, who are the first Amazon workers to organize with the Teamsters following the ruling.
As the unionization drive continues, it remains to be seen whether Amazon will ultimately agree to the drivers' demands for better pay and working conditions. The outcome of these negotiations could have far-reaching implications for the future of labor organizing within the e-commerce giant.