In the vast and intricate world of logistics, moving goods from one point to another is a multifaceted process involving various modes of transportation. Supply chains involving ocean or rail rely on drayage to link shippers and receivers to ocean ports and rail terminals. According to the Intermodal Association of North America (IANA), 95% of all manufactured goods worldwide utilize drayage at some point in the supply chain.
UNDERSTANDING DRAYAGE
Drayage refers to the short-haul, over-the-road transportation of goods from shippers to origin ocean ports or rail terminals, and from destination ocean ports or rail terminals to receivers.
Freight shipped by ocean or rail requires the use of containers. That’s why drayage utilizes standardized equipment designed to transport containers to and from ocean ports and rail terminals without needing to be destuffed and transloaded.
An effective drayage partner like Asset Based Intermodal ensures that the transportation of goods to and from ocean ports or rail terminals is executed efficiently, keeping the supply chain running smoothly.
HISTORICAL ROOTS OF DRAYAGE
The history of drayage dates back to the 1800s when horse-drawn carts, known as “drays,” transported goods between warehouses, ocean ports, canal docks, and rail terminals, leading to the term “drayage.” Over time, semi-trucks and chassis replaced horses and drays, and drayage became a vital connection between shippers, receivers, and other modes of transportation.
DRAYAGE CLASSIFICATIONS AND THEIR ROLES
Drayage can be classified into several categories, each serving specific purposes within the logistics industry:
- Inter-Carrier Drayage: Involves moving freight between different transportation modes.
- Intra-Carrier Drayage: Describes moving cargo within a transportation hub.
- Door-to-Door Drayage: Refers to transporting freight directly to the receiver.
- Shuttle Drayage: Concerns moving containers between temporary storage and the transportation hub.
- Pier Drayage: Transports freight from a rail terminal to an ocean port.
- Expedited Drayage: Involves the fast and efficient transport of time or materially-sensitive freight.
SHIPPING CONTAINERS
Shipping containers range from 6-8.5 feet tall and come in lengths of 20, 40, or 45 feet. They are available in different types, including:
- Dry or Standard: For general cargo.
- Flat Rack: Accommodates oversized or unusually shaped freight.
- High Cube: Taller and heavier than standard containers.
- Open Top: Typically used for heavy machinery or tall cargo.
- Refrigerated: Temperature-controlled for maintaining a constant temperature during transport.
FINDING THE RIGHT DRAYAGE PARTNER
Asset Based Intermodal, a reliable North American logistics provider specializing in drayage, offers extensive networks and well-established relationships with ports and rail terminals across the continent. Their expertise in drayage enables customized solutions that ensure freight moves efficiently through the supply chain without disruptions. Proactive in handling challenges such as port congestion and capacity shortages, they assist shippers in avoiding fees and delivery delays while providing consultation on peak seasons and other potential disruptions.
By working with a dedicated logistics provider like Asset Based Intermodal, businesses can benefit from their expertise in managing drayage operations, allowing them to focus on their core areas. Visit Asset Based Intermodal to explore how they can support your drayage needs.
