Globalization presents numerous opportunities that businesses can explore. This is one of the reasons why a good number of businesses opt to outsource logistics services in an effort to streamline and improve their operations. However, in order to make the most of these services, it is important to understand how the entire process works. One of the critical links in the logistics chain is referred to as drayage.
What Is Drayage?
Drayage refers to the transport of goods over short distances, mostly via ground freight. This process is usually part of a long move and could involve transportation of a container from a port to a rail yard, warehouse or any other destination. It could also refer to the transportation of cargo from one port to another or to another location for further transportation. In terms of container shipping in international commerce, this term can also be used to describe the charges involved in moving cargo as outlined above.
How Is It Different From Regular Trucking Or Shipping?
Unlike regular trucking and shipping, drayage involves the transportation of large volumes of goods over short distances. Drayage occurs between one port and another, from a port to a warehouse, rail ramp or from one point to another within the same city. With these services, businesses can also transport small volumes of containerized cargo from one point to another.
Another aspect that makes this process different from regular shipping and trucking is the fact that it can be part of a long journey or shipping process. For instance, a container that needs to be transported further inland can be moved from the seaport to the rail ramp before being transported to its final destination.
In most cases, Drayage occurs in only one shift. This is different from regular trucking or shipping where several shifts may be required to move cargo from one point to the desired destination.
One can also choose door-to-door services where goods are transported and delivered to the customer as opposed to a warehouse or store. This service adds to the convenience that customers enjoy when they choose it over regular trucking and shipping.
What’s Involved In The Drayage Process?
The first step in this process is to use the container number to track your goods. This makes it possible to know the location of the vessel as well as where the container will be discharged. The number also helps to increase the efficiency of the process.
The party receiving the goods will need to have the necessary customs documents, pay the required customs fee as well as other relevant fees. You will also be required to state when the cargo can be picked up from the designated lot.
The container must then be removed from the vessel within a specified time period. A driver will be sent to collect the load and deliver it to the customer’s warehouse or any other preferred destination. Once the cargo has been loaded onto the truck, it is considered to be officially in the process.
The driver will transport the cargo to its destination, submit the necessary paperwork for the delivery and send an invoice for the job. At this point, the cargo is said to have been delivered.
Working with a professional container trucking company will ensure that you enjoy the benefits associated with efficient services. Regardless of the type of goods, the right expertise and equipment will go a long way in ensuring that the products are delivered safely and on time. If you need these services, you can contact to find out how we can help.
