(SEATTLE) — Early this morning, the approximately 250 drivers, mechanics and owner-operators who work for Selland Auto Transport went on strike over Selland’s multiple violations of federal law meant to protect workers’ rights. The workers are picketing at 11 locations in Washington, Oregon, Montana, California and Utah with picket signs that say “On Strike/Selland Doesn’t Deliver.”

Selland transports new automobiles across the western U.S. for Toyota, Honda, VW, Hyundai, Mitsubishi, Kia and others. Selland workers are represented by seven Teamster local unions (63, 174, 190, 222, 223, 315 and 690).

The workers voted to form their union in 2014, but have not yet been able to negotiate a contract with the company. The Teamsters have filed several Unfair Labor Practices with the National Labor Relations Board, alleging that Selland has threatened and interrogated employees, coerced employees and refused to bargain with their union.

“These workers have been loyal to Selland for years, and it is outrageous that the company is treating them this way,” said Kevin Moore, Director of the Teamsters Carhaul Division. “They just want to get to a fair contract that would provide respect for workers and labor peace for Selland’s customers, and as long as Selland’s current management continues to violate federal labor law, that will be difficult to achieve. We don’t want to strike, but we had no choice.”

Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents 1.4 million hardworking men and women throughout the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico. Visit www.teamster.org for more information. Follow us on Twitter @teamsters and “like” us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/teamsters.

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