Drayage is a specialized logistics service that focuses on the short-distance transportation of freight, primarily shipping containers, between various points within a supply chain. These points often include ports, warehouses, rail yards, and distribution centers. Drayage plays a critical role in facilitating the movement of goods from one mode of transportation to another, such as from a ship at a port to a truck or train for further distribution.

Drayage services are essential for maintaining the smooth flow of goods within global supply chains. They help to ensure the efficient transfer of cargo between different transportation modes, minimizing delays, and reducing the risk of damage to goods. By providing a crucial link between sea, air, rail, and road transportation, drayage plays a vital role in connecting businesses with international markets and supporting economic growth.

Container drayage is a specialized form of drayage that focuses on the transportation of shipping containers, typically over short distances. It involves moving containers between different points within a supply chain, such as from ports to warehouses, rail terminals to distribution centers, or between other transportation hubs. 

Given the size and weight of shipping containers, container drayage requires specialized trucks, equipment, and professional drivers experienced in handling and transporting such loads. These trucks, known as drayage trucks or container chassis, are specifically designed to carry standard-sized shipping containers and navigate the busy environments of ports, rail yards, and industrial areas.

Port Drayage: This classification involves transporting shipping containers between a port and nearby warehouses, distribution centers, or other facilities. It is essential for moving imported or exported goods to and from ships at the port.

Intermodal Drayage: This type of drayage connects different modes of transportation, such as transferring containers from a ship to a train or truck for onward transport. 

Rail Drayage: This service focuses on the transportation of shipping containers to and from rail terminals, ensuring that goods can be efficiently transferred between trains and other modes of transportation.

Door-to-Door Drayage: This type of drayage covers the transportation of goods directly from a shipper’s location to the consignee’s premises, providing an end-to-end logistics solution.

Expedited Drayage: This classification offers faster transit times for urgent shipments, ensuring that goods reach their destination as quickly as possible. It is ideal for time-sensitive cargo or when facing tight deadlines.

Cross-Docking Drayage: In this service, containers are moved from an incoming truck or railcar to an outgoing one with minimal storage time in between. This process helps reduce handling costs and improves efficiency in moving goods through the supply chain.

Street Turns (or Triangulation): This drayage classification aims to minimize empty container movements by arranging for a container that has just been unloaded to be immediately loaded with new cargo for another shipment. This process optimizes container usage and reduces transportation costs.

Shuttle Drayage: This service involves moving containers short distances within the same facility or between nearby facilities, such as from one section of a port to another or between warehouses in close proximity. This classification helps manage storage space and improve container handling efficiency.