Drayage Services | Riopanjetatrucking

What is Drayage?

Drayage is a critical component of the logistics supply chain that involves the short-distance transportation of goods, typically from a port, rail yard, or warehouse to another nearby location. The term "drayage" originally referred to the use of a dray—a low, flatbed wagon without sides—to move goods short distances.

In modern logistics, drayage specifically refers to the movement of shipping containers over short distances, usually within the same metropolitan area or between transportation hubs. This service is essential for connecting different modes of transportation, such as moving containers from ships to rail yards, from ports to distribution centers, or between intermodal facilities.

Drayage services are typically measured in miles, with most drayage moves covering distances of 25 to 50 miles, though some can extend up to 200 miles depending on the specific logistics requirements.

Why Drayage Matters

Drayage plays a crucial role in the efficiency of your supply chain. Without proper drayage services, containers can sit idle at ports or rail yards, causing delays and increasing costs. Effective drayage ensures:

Faster container turnaround times
Reduced demurrage and detention fees
Improved supply chain visibility
Better coordination between transportation modes
Cost-effective short-haul transportation

Types of Drayage Services

Pier Drayage

Transportation of containers from ocean ports to nearby locations, typically within the port area or to nearby rail yards and distribution centers.

Rail Drayage

Moving containers between rail yards and local destinations, connecting rail transportation with final delivery points.

Shuttle Drayage

Moving containers to and from storage facilities or overflow yards when port or rail facilities are at capacity.

Door-to-Door Drayage

Complete transportation service from origin to final destination, handling all intermediate transfers.

Intra-Carrier Drayage

Moving containers between facilities operated by the same carrier, ensuring seamless internal logistics.

Expedited Drayage

Priority drayage services for time-sensitive shipments requiring immediate transportation.

Repositioning Drayage

Moving empty containers to locations where they're needed, optimizing container utilization.

Warehouse Drayage

Transportation between warehouses and distribution centers, facilitating inventory movement.

Understanding Drayage Fees

Base Drayage Rate

The fundamental charge for moving a container from point A to point B, typically calculated per container and based on distance.

Fuel Surcharge

Additional fee that fluctuates with fuel prices, ensuring carriers can maintain service quality despite changing fuel costs.

Chassis Rental

Fee for using specialized chassis equipment required to transport containers, often necessary when port or rail facilities don't provide chassis.

Detention & Demurrage

Charges incurred when containers are held beyond free time periods at ports, rail yards, or customer facilities.

Appointment Fees

Additional charges for scheduled pickups or deliveries that require specific time slots at facilities.

Why Choose Our Drayage Services

Experienced Team

Our drivers and logistics coordinators have extensive experience navigating port and rail facilities, ensuring efficient and timely service.

Modern Fleet

We maintain a modern fleet of drayage trucks and chassis, ensuring reliability and compliance with all safety and environmental regulations.

Real-Time Tracking

Advanced tracking technology provides real-time visibility into your container's location and status throughout the drayage process.

Cost Optimization

We work to minimize detention and demurrage fees through efficient scheduling and proactive container management.

24/7 Support

Round-the-clock customer support ensures you can reach us whenever you need assistance with your drayage needs.

Best Practices for Drayage

Plan Ahead: Schedule drayage services well in advance to secure preferred time slots and avoid rush charges.

Provide Accurate Information: Ensure all container numbers, pickup locations, and delivery addresses are correct to prevent delays.

Monitor Free Time: Track detention and demurrage free time periods to avoid unnecessary fees.

Coordinate with Partners: Maintain clear communication with port authorities, rail operators, and warehouse facilities.

Choose the Right Provider: Select a drayage provider with experience in your specific port or rail facility and a proven track record of reliability.