#United States #Torrance #Teamsters Local 396 #Unionization #Amazon Drivers

Southern California Amazon Drivers Unite with Teamsters

In a significant move towards securing better working conditions, over 500 Amazon drivers at the DCX7 and DDO6 facilities in Torrance, California, have officially joined Teamsters Local 396. This unionization effort aims to compel Amazon to recognize their rights and engage in negotiations over a comprehensive collective bargaining agreement.

On the morning of October 5, 2026, these determined drivers made their presence known by marching on management to deliver their demands. The group is rallying for several critical improvements, including an end to the company's excessive quotas, higher wages, full-time scheduling, and enhanced job security. Despite Amazon's profits soaring by more than 30% this year, workers received only a meager $1 per hour raise, highlighting the stark contrast between the company's financial success and the conditions experienced by its employees.

Randy Korgan, the Director of the Teamsters Amazon Division, expressed solidarity with the drivers, stating, "The Amazon Teamsters movement continues to grow in Southern California because workers are tired of earning poverty wages while Amazon rakes in billions off their backs. It's quite offensive to receive just a $1 increase when most drivers are earning significantly below the industry standard for similar roles. Our new members at DCX7 and DDO6 are demonstrating remarkable bravery in their fight against one of America’s most criticized employers. We are excited to welcome them into this movement."

Drivers like Morgan Miller, who works at the DCX7 facility, voiced their commitment to the cause, saying, "We put in our best effort daily to contribute to Amazon's profits, and it's about time we're treated with the respect we deserve at work. Amazon stands as one of the wealthiest corporations worldwide; therefore, teaming up with the Teamsters is our path to advocating for basic protections and enhancements from the company."

Moreover, Kevin Olea-Martinez, another driver at the DDO6 facility, highlighted the financial struggles faced by many workers in the region. He shared, "With one of the highest costs of living in the country, I'm forced to juggle three jobs just to make ends meet. The dignity and respect we seek won’t be voluntarily granted by Amazon, so it falls upon us to claim our rights."

The International Brotherhood of Teamsters, founded in 1903, proudly represents over 1.3 million workers across the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico. As they stand in solidarity with Amazon workers nationwide, the Teamsters Union continues to empower laborers fighting for fair treatment. To learn more about their initiatives and support, visit Teamster.org and follow them on social media at @Teamsters on X and Facebook.

In conclusion, the unionization efforts of these Amazon drivers mark a pivotal moment in their fight for better pay and working conditions. As they join the ranks of over 10,000 Amazon workers at 16 locations who have already taken up the banner of Teamster support, their actions are sure to inspire others in the labor movement and the broader community. They are not just fighting for themselves but also for the future of all workers in the gig economy and beyond.