Essential Drayage Information for 2025
Whether you’re new to container drayage or looking to optimize your current operations, this comprehensive FAQ covers everything Houston shippers need to know about container transportation in 2025.
Basic Drayage Questions
What is container drayage?
Container drayage is the short-distance transportation of shipping containers, typically from ports to warehouses, rail terminals, or distribution centers. At Sunbelt Drayage, we specialize in moving containers to and from the Port of Houston and Chicago terminals.
How is drayage different from regular trucking?
Drayage is specialized short-haul container transport that requires specific equipment (chassis), port access credentials (TWIC cards), and knowledge of terminal operations. Unlike long-haul trucking, drayage focuses on the critical first and last mile of intermodal transportation.
What types of containers can you transport?
We handle all standard container sizes including:
- 20-foot dry containers
- 40-foot dry containers
- 40-foot high cube containers
- 45-foot containers
- Refrigerated containers (reefers)
- Open-top and flat-rack containers (specialized)
Pricing and Cost Questions
How is drayage pricing calculated?
Drayage pricing typically includes:
- Base rate: Distance-based transportation fee
- Fuel surcharge: Fluctuates with diesel prices
- Accessorial charges: Additional services like detention, chassis usage
- Port fees: Terminal-specific charges passed through
What are typical drayage rates in Houston?
Houston drayage rates for 2025 typically range from $300-$600 for local moves, depending on:
- Distance from port to destination
- Container size and type
- Market demand and capacity
- Additional services required
What additional fees should I expect?
Common additional charges include:
- Detention: $75-$150/hour after free time
- Chassis usage: $25-$50 per day
- Port storage: $25-$75 per day after free time
- Overweight permits: $100-$300 depending on weight
- Weekend/holiday service: 50-100% premium
Timing and Scheduling Questions
How long does a typical drayage move take?
Standard Houston area drayage moves typically take:
- Port pickup: 2-4 hours including wait time
- Local delivery: 1-2 hours depending on distance
- Total transit time: Same day for moves under 50 miles
What is “free time” and how does it work?
Free time is the period containers can remain at the port without storage charges:
- Import containers: Typically 4-5 days
- Export containers: Usually 7-10 days
- After free time: Daily storage fees apply
Can you provide same-day service?
Yes! Sunbelt Drayage offers same-day service for:
- Emergency shipments
- Just-in-time deliveries
- Local Houston area moves
- Available capacity permitting
Documentation and Requirements
What documents are required for container pickup?
Required documentation includes:
- Delivery order or release from steamship line
- Equipment interchange receipt (EIR)
- Bill of lading and commercial documents
- Customs release (for imports)
- Driver credentials (TWIC card, CDL)
How do customs holds affect pickup timing?
Customs examinations can delay pickup by:
- CET (Container Exam Team): 1-3 days
- Intensive exam: 3-7 days
- Agricultural inspection: 1-2 days
Service Areas and Capabilities
What areas do you serve from Houston?
Sunbelt Drayage serves the entire Houston metropolitan area including:
- All Port of Houston terminals (Bayport, Barbours Cut)
- Greater Houston area (within 100 miles)
- Major distribution centers and warehouses
- Rail terminals (BNSF, UP, KCS)
Do you handle overweight containers?
Yes, we handle overweight shipments up to 80,000 lbs total weight with:
- Proper permit acquisition
- Route planning and surveys
- Specialized equipment when needed
- Coordination with authorities
Can you provide temperature-controlled transport?
We handle refrigerated containers (reefers) with:
- Reefer-qualified chassis and gensets
- Temperature monitoring capabilities
- 24/7 monitoring support
- Emergency power backup options
Equipment and Operations
What equipment do you use?
Our fleet includes:
- Modern tractors: 2020-2025 models
- Container chassis: 20′, 40′, and 45′ capacity
- Specialized equipment: Heavy-haul, multi-axle chassis
- GPS tracking: Real-time visibility
How do you handle equipment shortages?
During equipment shortages, we:
- Maintain strategic chassis pool relationships
- Coordinate with multiple leasing companies
- Provide advance notice of potential delays
- Offer alternative timing solutions
Emergency and Support Questions
What if there’s an issue during transport?
Our 24/7 dispatch team provides:
- Real-time problem resolution
- Alternative routing when needed
- Direct communication with customers
- Coordination with terminals and authorities
Do you provide weekend and holiday service?
Yes, we offer weekend and holiday service for:
- Critical shipments
- Perishable goods
- Time-sensitive deliveries
- Emergency situations
Technology and Tracking
Can I track my container in real-time?
Absolutely! We provide:
- GPS tracking: Real-time location updates
- Status notifications: Pickup, in-transit, delivered
- ETA updates: Accurate delivery timing
- Photo confirmation: Delivery verification
How do you communicate updates?
We provide updates via:
- Email notifications
- SMS text messages
- Phone calls for urgent matters
- Online portal access
Working with Sunbelt Drayage
How do I set up service with Sunbelt Drayage?
Getting started is simple:
- Contact us: Phone, email, or online quote
- Credit approval: Quick business verification
- Setup profile: Delivery locations, preferences
- First move: Dedicated support for initial shipments
What makes Sunbelt Drayage different?
Our competitive advantages include:
- 100% TWIC compliance: All drivers security-cleared
- Local expertise: Deep Houston market knowledge
- Modern equipment: Well-maintained, reliable fleet
- Responsive service: 24/7 dispatch and support
- Competitive pricing: Transparent, fair rates
Still have questions about container drayage? Contact Sunbelt Drayage today! Our experienced team is ready to help you navigate the complexities of Houston container transportation.
Call us today or request a quote to experience the Sunbelt Drayage difference!
This FAQ is updated regularly to reflect current market conditions and regulatory requirements. Last updated: September 2025.