Freight logistics keeps supply chains running by making sure goods move smoothly from one point to another, whether across town or the country. At the heart of this process is the challenge of matching available loads with trucks heading in the right direction. For many businesses, especially those managing drayage and short-haul operations, speed and accuracy in freight coordination can make or break delivery schedules.

Port congestion, supply chain disruptions, and labor shortages have dominated logistics headlines—but a less visible factor often sits at the root of many delays: chassis shortages. These wheeled frames are essential for moving shipping containers between ports, rail yards, and warehouses, yet many businesses underestimate their role until shipments are stuck in limbo.

Drayage trucking plays a vital role in the smooth movement of goods within intermodal transportation systems. It serves as the essential link that connects shipping containers between ports, rail yards, and final delivery points. Without it, even the most advanced logistics networks would face delays and disruptions.

Shipping delays and surprise fees at ports can crush timelines and profits. That’s why more businesses are turning to drayage companies to keep goods moving between ports, warehouses, and rail yards. With the right partner, drayage services can streamline last-mile logistics and minimize costly disruptions.

Choosing the right drayage partner can make or break the efficiency of a supply chain. Before that choice is made, it’s essential to understand the moving parts of port operations and customs logistics, both of which directly impact container movement timelines.

Moving goods from point A to point B involves more than just long-haul trucks and ocean liners. There’s a crucial link often hidden in plain sight—drayage—the short-distance transport that connects major shipping hubs to warehouses, rail yards, and distribution centers. While often underestimated, this small but powerful piece of the supply chain puzzle plays a vital role in keeping freight flowing efficiently.

For businesses preparing to move goods through ports, rail yards, or distribution hubs for the first time, the question often comes up: what is drayage in shipping, and what should we know before using it?

The logistics industry has experienced a major shift in recent years, driven by digital innovation and growing customer expectations.

Import-heavy businesses already face a maze of challenges—tight delivery windows, rising port fees, and constant pressure to move goods faster. When drayage and warehousing are handled by separate providers, even small missteps can trigger delays, extra charges, and lost time