Drayage services move cargo between ports, warehouses, and distribution centers—and choosing the wrong provider can snarl your supply chain and drain your budget. The difference between a reliable drayage partner and a problematic one often comes down to asking the right questions upfront. Here's what you need to investigate before signing any contract.
What equipment does the carrier actually own versus lease?
Drayage companies that own their chassis, tractors, and containers have more control over availability and maintenance standards. Ask for a specific breakdown: how many units do they own outright, and what percentage do they lease from third parties like Flexi-fleet or DirectChasis? Companies relying heavily on leased equipment may face sudden capacity shortages during peak port season or when lessors reallocate assets. Request proof of ownership or long-term lease agreements for critical equipment.
How quickly can they confirm pickup and delivery windows?
Port operations demand precision. Ask what their typical response time is when you request a pickup—ideally within 24 hours for standard bookings, and 4-6 hours for expedited moves. Clarify whether they charge extra for rush confirmations. Also ask about their dwell time handling: if cargo sits at a port longer than the free holding period (usually 2-5 days depending on the port), does the carrier pass through demurrage fees, or do they absorb some costs as part of their service model?
What's included in their all-in pricing?
Drayage pricing varies wildly, and hidden fees destroy budgets. Get a written quote that specifies:
- Base rate per move (typically $200–$600 for a 20-foot container, $250–$750 for a 40-footer, depending on distance and local market)
- Fuel surcharge structure (fixed or percentage-based)
- Detention charges (charges per day if you keep the container longer than free time)
- Demurrage pass-through or not
- Gate fees at the specific ports you use
- Waiting time fees, if applicable
Ask whether they charge differently for drop-and-hook versus live loading/unloading. A carrier quoting $300 flat may actually cost $450 once fees are added; get everything itemized.
Do they have port authority credentials and certifications?
Legitimate drayage carriers must be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and hold current port authority security credentials. Ask for their USDOT number and verify it on SAFER. At major ports like LA/Long Beach, Oakland, or New Jersey, they need Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT) certification or equivalent port-specific security clearances. Request their safety ratings—carriers with preventable accident rates above 15% or serious violations should raise red flags.
What happens if they can't fulfill your shipment?
Reliability during peak season separates good carriers from mediocre ones. Ask how they handle overload situations: do they have backup carriers, or will you scramble to find coverage yourself? Get the answer in writing. Also clarify their cancellation policy—if you need to cancel a booked pickup with 48 hours' notice, are you charged? What if they cancel on you?
How do they handle customs and regulatory compliance?
For international cargo, this matters. Ask whether they verify that your cargo is properly documented before pickup, and what happens if documentation is incomplete. Do they flag import/export issues proactively, or do you discover problems at the gate? Some carriers offer add-on services like EDI filing or cargo manifest preparation; understanding what's included versus what costs extra prevents surprise delays.
What's their communication and tracking setup?
Ask for specifics: do they provide real-time tracking, and how (API integration, email updates, portal)? How often do they communicate status changes, and what's their response time for inquiries? A carrier that integrates with systems like Project44 or FourKites is easier to incorporate into your operations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What's the typical drayage cost for moving a container 50 miles from a port? A: Expect $250–$450 for a 20-foot container and $300–$550 for a 40-footer, depending on local labor rates, fuel costs, and whether it's a peak season. Always request quotes from multiple carriers for accurate comparisons.
Q: How long does a typical drayage pickup take at the port? A: Gate-in to gate-out typically takes 2–4 hours for a standard pickup, but this varies by port congestion and documentation readiness. Some ports (like LA/Long Beach) now offer appointment slots that reduce wait times to 30–60 minutes.
Q: Can a drayage company refuse my shipment for compliance reasons? A: Yes—carriers can refuse shipments with incomplete documentation, hazardous materials not properly declared, or customs issues, to protect themselves from fines. Always verify your cargo documentation before booking.
Use Mercoly to compare vetted drayage providers in your region and confirm availability before your cargo arrives.