What Is Container Drayage? A Key Process in Container Logistics

What Is Container Drayage? A Complete Guide to a Key Container Logistics Process

Are you handling import or export shipments but feel confused about what "container drayage" actually involves?

Does container drayage sound similar to container transport-and are they the same thing?

 

Container drayage is one of the most critical land-based operations in container logistics. In this article, we provide a clear and practical explanation of container drayage-from equipment types to the full operational process-helping you better manage and monitor your logistics workflow.

 

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1. Is Container Drayage the Same as Container Transport?

Before diving into the process, it’s important to distinguish these two commonly confused terms:

 

Container Transport

A broad term referring to all logistics activities involving containers, including ocean freight, inland transport, customs clearance, loading, and unloading.

 

Container Drayage

A specific inland transport service that involves hauling containers by tractor and chassis from Point A to Point B, such as from ports to factories, warehouses, or container yards.

 

👉 Simply put, container drayage is the core land-transport segment within the larger container transport system.

 

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2. Key Equipment in Container Drayage: Chassis Types

Choosing the right equipment is essential for safe and efficient drayage operations. Common container chassis types include:

 

20-Foot Chassis

Designed for standard 20-foot containers (short containers).

 

40-Foot Chassis

Used for 40-foot containers (long containers) or two 20-foot containers simultaneously.

 

Specialized Chassis

Used for special cargo requirements, such as:

• Reefer container chassis with power supply
• Dangerous goods–compliant chassis
• ISO tank container chassis

 

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3. Standard Container Drayage Process (Export Example)

A typical export container drayage operation includes the following steps:

 

1. Dispatch

The shipper or customs broker provides a Shipping Order (S/O) to the transport company (e.g., WuSin).

 

2. Empty Container Pick-Up

A tractor is dispatched to the designated container yard to pick up an empty container using the S/O.

 

3. Cargo Loading

The empty container is hauled to the shipper’s factory or warehouse for cargo loading.

 

4. Full Container Return

After loading, the full container is returned to the designated port container yard (CY) before the cut-off time.

 

5. Customs Clearance & Release

Customs declaration and clearance are completed by the broker, allowing the container to proceed for vessel loading.

 

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Need Reliable Container Drayage Services?

Container drayage plays a vital role in connecting factories, ports, and customs processes. An experienced and well-coordinated logistics provider ensures your containers move on time, safely, and efficiently.

 

With over 40 years of industry experience and a strong fleet based in Taoyuan, WuSin Transportations Co., LTD. provides comprehensive container transport and drayage services across Taiwan.

 

👉 Learn more about our container transport services | 👉 Contact us