Thanks for the clarification!
I worked as Import Freight supervisor for a major Asian-based Ocean Container Line... which means that in addition to babysitting the adult staff I had, I had to monitor the cargo once the Vessel arrived at port. Work with the Importer , US Customs, the Railroads, the Ports, the Trucks, sometimes the overseas Shipper, the Customs Broker, the Warehouse, the Notify Party etc.. just to get the container out of the port.
I also directly handled our US Customs/USDA/FDA Inspection process (basically ensuring that the Consignee understood his cargo was put on hold and that he contact the gov't to take care of it)
The thing is... the way it works at one port is pretty much the way it works at all US Ports.
And here's one rule:
US Customs calls the shots.
It's laughable to think that a port union worker would have any influence at all.
It's like saying the Court Reporter is going to get a jury to aquit you. They have absolutely no reason to interact.