Definition
Drayage is the short-distance transport of shipping containers or cargo, typically from a port terminal to a nearby warehouse, distribution center, or rail terminal. It is the first leg of inland transportation after a container is discharged from a vessel. While drayage is a trucking function rather than a customs function, the two are tightly interconnected.
Why It Matters for Importers
You cannot schedule drayage until your container is cleared by customs. A delayed customs clearance means a delayed drayage pickup, which means demurrage and detention charges from the shipping line and terminal. At busy ports, drayage appointment slots are limited, so missing your window due to a clearance delay can push your pickup back by days.
The cost of drayage itself is relatively modest — typically $300 to $800 for a local port-to-warehouse move. But the cascading costs of delays (demurrage at $200-$400/day, detention at $100-$200/day, missed delivery windows) can quickly dwarf the drayage fee itself.
Key Details
- Customs dependency: Containers cannot leave the terminal until CBP releases them. Fast clearance = faster drayage.
- Free time: Shipping lines typically provide 3-5 free days for container pickup. After that, demurrage charges apply.
- Appointment systems: Most major ports use appointment systems for drayage. Missed appointments mean rebooking and delays.
- Chassis availability: Drayage trucks need chassis to transport containers. Chassis shortages at certain ports can add delays independent of customs.
Minimizing port dwell time starts with fast, accurate customs clearance. Learn about our customs clearance process.
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