The threat of a port strike on the East Coast has emerged for the first time since 1977. Here's what to know.

Thousands of East and Gulf Coast dockworkers are preparing to strike next week, potentially shutting down a vital trade route that handles about half of all containerized goods in the U.S.

Negotiations between the dockworkers union and shipping industry groups have stalled for months, with both sides giving differing statements about their willingness to negotiate. The U.S. Maritime Alliance (USMX) has filed an unfair practices complaint and asked the National Labor Relations Board to force the union to resume negotiations.

Experts warn that port closures could disrupt the flow of goods and raise shipping costs, which would ultimately affect consumers, especially as inflation in the U.S. stabilizes. The strike could be the first major work stoppage at East Coast ports in nearly half a century.

The International Longshoremen's Association (ILA), a union representing 45,000 dockworkers, has threatened to strike at 36 ports if a deal is not reached before the current contract expires on Sept. 30. The main issues in the dispute are demands for higher wages and a ban on automation of port equipment.