As day one of the dockworkers strike unfolded, economists were trying to quantify the damage from the supply chain disruption caused by the closure of 36 ports.

PHILADELPHIA — Dockworkers at ports from Maine to Texas began walking picket lines early Oct. 1 in a strike over wages and automation.

U.S. dockworkers at ports along the East and Gulf Coasts began their first major strike in decades Oct. 1 in a move that threatens to have downstream impacts on trucking.

Growers already have been struggling with declining farm incomes because of high input costs, global competition and low commodity prices.

A lengthy ports shutdown could raise prices on goods around the country and potentially cause shortages and price increases at retailers as the holiday shopping season approaches.

Key industry and government officials are urging U.S. dockworkers and their employers to avoid a strike at East and Gulf Coast ports, though many facilities are bracing for a shutdown.

The union, which represents 1,200 dockworkers, gave 72-hour strike notice on Sept. 27 to the Maritime Employers Association.

Logistics experts say a threatened strike by U.S. dockworkers could stymie shipping activity that stretches far beyond the East and Gulf Coast ports where work stoppages would occur.

U.S. ports reported strong results amid efforts in August to move cargo ahead of the holiday shipping season and a potential strike.

DETROIT — With a strike deadline looming, the group representing East and Gulf Coast ports is asking a federal agency to make the longshoremen’s union come to the bargaining table.