What Is Drayage?
Drayage is the short-distance transportation of shipping containers, typically between a port or rail terminal and a warehouse, distribution center, or transload facility. It's the critical first and last mile of intermodal freight.
Types of Drayage
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Port Drayage | Moving containers from ocean port to warehouse |
| Rail Drayage | Moving containers from rail ramp to destination |
| Inter-Carrier | Transferring containers between carriers |
| Intra-Carrier | Moving containers within a carrier's facilities |
| Expedited | Same-day or next-day container movement |
| Shuttle | Short moves within a port complex |
How Drayage Works
- Container arrives at port or rail terminal
- Appointment booked at the terminal for pickup
- Chassis arranged (carrier-owned or pool chassis)
- TWIC-certified driver enters the terminal
- Container loaded onto chassis
- Delivery to warehouse or distribution center
- Empty return — container returned to terminal or depot
Drayage Costs
| Market | Port Drayage (20–50 mi) | Port Drayage (50–100 mi) |
|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles | $300–$600 | $600–$1,000 |
| New York/NJ | $350–$700 | $700–$1,200 |
| Savannah | $250–$500 | $500–$800 |
| Houston | $275–$550 | $550–$900 |
| Chicago (Rail) | $300–$550 | $550–$850 |
Common Drayage Charges
- Base rate: Pickup and delivery within a defined zone
- Fuel surcharge: Typically 15–25% of base rate
- Chassis fee: $25–$60/day for pool chassis
- Per diem: $150–$300/day for containers held past free time
- Demurrage: Port charges for containers left at terminal
- Overweight: Additional charges for containers over 40,000 lbs
- Tri-axle chassis: Required for heavy containers, $75–$150 extra
Choosing a Drayage Provider
Look for:
- TWIC-certified driver fleet
- Chassis pool memberships (DCLI, TRAC, Flexi-Van)
- Port terminal relationships
- Appointment management capabilities
- Real-time container tracking
- Demurrage management expertise
Why Indray for Drayage
Indray operates drayage services at all major US ports with TWIC-certified drivers, chassis management, and 24/7 dispatch. Get a drayage quote today.
