In the U.S. drayage trucking industry, costs are complex and influenced by multiple factors such as distance, time, vehicle type, urgency, region, and special conditions. Below are the most common fees:
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Basic Shipping Rates
The fundamental cost of trucking services, usually excluding chassis rental. -
Fuel Surcharge
An additional charge applied when international fuel prices rise, compensating for increased operational costs. -
Frame Fee (Chassis Fee)
Charged on a daily basis, typically with a minimum of three days. The average rate is around $50 per day. -
Withholding Fee (Pre-pull Fee)
Fee for picking up containers early from a terminal or rail yard, generally around $300. -
Storage Fee
Applied when using the trucking company’s yard for storage, usually charged per container per day, averaging about $100. -
Withdraw the Frame Fee from Another Place
Additional cost when a chassis must be pulled from a location outside the terminal, usually exceeding $150. -
Port Waiting Fees & Warehouse Waiting Fees
Charged when drivers wait at the port or warehouse. Costs apply per hour after exceeding a set free time. -
Drop/Pick Fee
Fee for situations requiring the driver to make two trips to the warehouse, essentially doubling trucking charges. -
Three-Axis Frame Fee
Extra charge for using a tri-axle chassis to legally accommodate heavy cargo. -
Peak Season Surcharge (PSS)
A seasonal fee applied when resources are tight, typically around $250. -
Toll (for Road/Bridge)
Charged for using special toll roads or bridges. -
Delivery Fee for Residential Areas
Extra charge for deliveries to residential locations, usually around $300. -
Layover
Fee for exceeding the driver’s legal working hours (11 hours), generally around $500. -
Deadhead Fee
Cost incurred when a driver travels without successfully picking up a container. -
Rush Order Fee
Additional fee for urgent shipments, usually around $200.
