GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jul 19, 2026
Drayage
Drayage is the short-haul trucking of containers, typically between a container port, a rail terminal and a nearby warehouse or depot.
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Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Drayage
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Drayage is the short-haul trucking of containers, typically between a container port, a rail terminal and a nearby warehouse or depot. As the first or last mile of intermodal transport, drayage links the ocean leg to the rail main haul, or the railhead to final delivery — the container remains sealed and is not unloaded. The box is usually moved on a chassis picked up at the terminal. For freight forwarders, drayage is a critical cost driver: terminal waiting times, chassis shortages and tight appointment windows can trigger surcharges and delays, especially during peak season or frontloading waves at major ports such as Los Angeles. Billing is usually per move, plus waiting-time and fuel surcharges. Not to be confused with the long-haul main leg: drayage covers only short distances around ports and terminals.
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