Understanding Drayage 

Drayage refers to the short-distance transportation of goods, often involving shipping containers moved from one location to another within a limited range. Here’s a more technical look at how drayage works, using specific terms commonly associated with this process: 

A Brief History of Drayage 

The term "drayage" has its roots in the history of transportation. Originally, the word "dray" referred to a type of cart used in the 17th century. These carts, known as drays, were used to carry heavy loads over short distances, particularly in urban areas. As transportation methods evolved, the term "drayage" continued to describe the movement of goods over short distances, now involving trucks rather than carts. 

How Drayage Works

1. 1. Arrival: The process begins when a cargo ship arrives at a port. This is when the ship and its containers reach their destination and are ready to be processed.

   2. Berthing: Once the ship has arrived, it needs to dock at the port. Berthing is the process of securing the ship to a dock so that containers can be unloaded safely.

   3. Unloading: After berthing, containers are removed from the ship. This is known as unloading. The containers are lifted from the ship and placed onto port equipment or trucks.

   4. Discharged: Once unloaded, the containers are considered discharged. This means they have been successfully removed from the ship and are now ready to be moved to their next destination.

   5. Available: The discharged containers become available for drayage once they are processed through port operations. Being "available" means that they are ready to be picked up and transported.

   6. Last Free Day: Containers typically have a "last free day" at the port, which is the final day they can stay at the port without incurring additional charges. After this day, storage fees may apply.

   7. Out Gate: After loading the container onto the truck, the vehicle exits the port through the "out gate." This is where the truck leaves the port with the container to its destination for unloading or further transport.

   8. In Gate: Once the container has been unloaded, the truck must return the empty container to the port to avoid per diem fees so the container can be used on the next voyage with the steamship line it originated from.

Summary

Drayage involves several key steps: the arrival of the ship, berthing, unloading, and discharging of containers. Once containers are available, they must be picked up before the last free day expires. Trucks enter the port through the in gate and exit through the out gate to complete the short-distance transport. 

Here at 1st Choice Freight, we have great understanding and experience with all phases of drayage. We have the best-in-class visibility and tracking to make sure your container is being serviced to the highest standard.   

Call us today at 800-659-9178 or email us at info@1stchoicefreight.com