What is Port of Houston Drayage? (Complete Overview)
Port of Houston drayage is the specialized transportation of shipping containers between the port terminals and inland destinations like warehouses, distribution centers, or rail yards. As the largest port in the Gulf Coast, Houston handles over 2.4 million TEUs annually, making efficient drayage operations critical for supply chain success.
Key Houston Port Terminals for Drayage
Barbours Cut Terminal: Handles container vessels up to 14,000 TEU capacity. Open Monday-Friday 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Saturday 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Bayport Terminal: The port’s newest and largest container facility. Features automated gate systems and extended hours: Monday-Friday 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Container Yard 19: Specializes in breakbulk and project cargo with container capabilities.
2025 Houston Drayage Fees and Costs
Port Access Fees:
- Gate transaction fee: $15.75 per container move
- Security fee: $5.25 per TEU
- Wharfage: $4.05 per revenue ton
Demurrage and Detention Costs:
- Free time: 5 days for import containers
- Demurrage: $75/day after free time expires
- Detention: $100/day for chassis/equipment delays
- Weekend/holiday storage: Additional $25/day
Typical Drayage Rates (Houston Area):
- Local delivery (0-30 miles): $350-$450 per container
- Regional delivery (30-100 miles): $450-$650 per container
- Specialized loads (hazmat, overweight): Additional $100-$200
Houston Drayage Process Step-by-Step
Step 1: Documentation Review
Verify bill of lading, customs release, and terminal release numbers. Ensure all fees are paid and container is available for pickup.
Step 2: Equipment Staging
Secure appropriate chassis (20ft, 40ft, or 45ft) and ensure truck meets port access requirements including TWIC card compliance.
Step 3: Port Gate Entry
Present required documentation at terminal gate. Average wait time: 15-30 minutes during peak hours (8 AM – 11 AM, 2 PM – 4 PM).
Step 4: Container Pickup
Navigate to designated yard location, complete container inspection, and secure load for transport.
Step 5: Final Delivery
Transport to destination with GPS tracking, complete delivery confirmation, and return chassis if required.
Best Practices to Avoid Delays and Extra Costs
Timing Optimization:
- Schedule pickups during off-peak hours (11 AM – 2 PM, after 4 PM)
- Avoid Friday afternoon and Monday morning rushes
- Plan around terminal maintenance windows (typically Sunday nights)
Documentation Preparation:
- Verify customs release 24 hours before pickup
- Confirm payment of all terminal charges
- Have backup equipment booking in case of chassis shortages
Houston Drayage Regulations and Requirements
Driver Requirements:
- Valid CDL with hazmat endorsement (for applicable loads)
- TWIC card for port access
- Minimum 2 years commercial driving experience
- Clean driving record and background check
Equipment Standards:
- Trucks must be model year 2010 or newer for emissions compliance
- GPS tracking required for all movements
- Insurance: Minimum $1M liability, $100K cargo coverage
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does typical Houston drayage take?
A: Local deliveries within 30 miles typically take 3-6 hours including port time. Longer distances may require 6-8 hours depending on traffic and delivery location.
Q: What happens if my container has customs holds?
A: Containers with customs examinations cannot be moved until released. This adds 1-3 days typically. We monitor status and notify customers immediately when containers are available.
Q: Can you handle overweight containers?
A: Yes, we specialize in overweight and oversized loads. Texas DOT permits are obtained as needed, and we use specialized chassis rated for heavy cargo up to 80,000 lbs gross weight.
Why Choose Professional Houston Drayage Services
Professional drayage companies like Sunbelt Drayage offer several advantages over self-managed operations:
- 24/7 GPS Tracking: Real-time visibility of container location and delivery status
- Expedited Service: Established relationships with terminal operators reduce wait times
- Regulatory Compliance: Full compliance with port security, DOT regulations, and environmental standards
- Cost Management: Avoid demurrage charges through efficient scheduling and priority pickup slots
- Insurance Protection: Comprehensive cargo and liability coverage exceeding port requirements
Contact Sunbelt Drayage for Houston port container transportation: (832) 900-3453
Our experienced team handles 500+ container moves monthly at Port of Houston, ensuring your cargo moves efficiently from ship to final destination. Whether you need standard dry containers, refrigerated units, or specialized heavy cargo transport, we deliver reliability and cost-effective solutions for your supply chain needs.