CORE TERM
Port Drayage
Drayage moves originating or terminating at a seaport container terminal.
Port drayage specifically refers to container moves that start or end at a seaport terminal — as distinct from rail drayage (intermodal ramps) or depot drayage (inland container storage). When a ship arrives at the Port of Savannah, for example, the containers are unloaded onto terminal ground, and port drayage carriers are called to pick up those boxes and deliver them to warehouses, rail ramps, or other facilities within the regional area.
Port drayage involves more compliance requirements than other drayage types because seaport terminals are regulated Maritime Security zones under the Maritime Transportation Security Act (MTSA). All drivers entering the terminal must hold a valid TWIC (Transportation Worker Identification Credential) card, issued by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). Carriers must also be UIIA-registered to access chassis equipment inside the port.
Port drayage is priced per container move, with charges varying by distance, container size (20' vs 40' vs 45'), cargo type (hazmat, reefer, overweight), chassis split fees, and port-specific surcharges. At congested ports like LA/Long Beach and New York/NJ, carriers often add port congestion surcharges during peak periods. Detention fees apply when a driver waits more than the allowed free time at the terminal gate.