How to Choose an Asset-Based Drayage Carrier

Choosing the right drayage carrier can be the difference between a smooth, cost-effective supply chain and one plagued by delays, demurrage fees, and broken promises. But not all drayage providers are created equal. This guide covers the 5 most important factors to evaluate when choosing an asset-based drayage carrier in the Pacific Northwest.

Asset-Based vs Brokerage: Why It Matters

The first question to ask any drayage provider is: ‘Do you own your trucks and chassis, or are you a brokerage?’ Asset-based carriers own their equipment, employ their drivers, and control their schedules. Brokerages arrange transport using third-party trucks — they don’t control the equipment or the driver.

Asset-based carriers offer greater reliability because they control every aspect of the move. If a truck breaks down, they have backup equipment. If a driver is unavailable, they have a bench. Brokerages can’t make those guarantees.

5 Factors to Evaluate

1. Fleet Size and Equipment — A carrier with 50+ power units and 100+ chassis (like Singh Trucklines) has the capacity to handle your volume, even during peak season. Ask about chassis types — do they have tri-axle and quad-axle for overweight containers?

2. TWIC Certification — All drivers must hold TWIC credentials to access secure port areas. If a carrier’s drivers aren’t TWIC-certified, they can’t pick up your containers.

3. Port Experience — Look for a carrier with daily operations at both the Port of Seattle and Port of Tacoma. They should know terminal procedures, appointment systems, and free time management inside and out.

4. Technology — GPS tracking, TMS-driven dispatch, and real-time visibility are essential. You should always know where your container is and when it will be delivered.

5. Reputation and Awards — Look for carriers with industry recognition. Singh Trucklines was named CH Robinson’s #1 Intermodal Carrier of the Year in 2025 — a recognition based on measured performance metrics.

Red Flags to Watch For

Be cautious of carriers who: can’t guarantee chassis availability, don’t have TWIC-certified drivers, have no GPS tracking or real-time visibility, can’t provide references from current customers, or offer rates significantly below market (they may cut corners on safety or compliance).

Why Singh Trucklines Is the Right Choice

Singh Trucklines is an asset-based carrier with 50+ power units, 100+ company-controlled chassis (including tri-axle and quad-axle for overweight loads), TWIC-certified drivers, GPS tracking on all vehicles, and daily operations at both ports. We are CH Robinson’s #1 Intermodal Carrier (2025) and serve the entire Pacific Northwest from our Kent, WA headquarters.

Request a quote or call +1 (253) 277-7784 to learn how we can support your drayage needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an asset-based drayage carrier?

An asset-based carrier owns its trucks, chassis, and employs its drivers directly. This gives them full control over equipment availability and scheduling, unlike brokerages that rely on third-party trucks.

Why is TWIC certification important for drayage?

TWIC (Transportation Worker Identification Credential) is required to access secure areas at ports. Without it, drivers cannot pick up or deliver containers at the Port of Seattle or Port of Tacoma.

How many chassis does Singh Trucklines have?

We maintain a pool of 100+ company-controlled chassis in tandem, tri-axle, and quad-axle configurations, including 10 quad-axle chassis for loads up to 64,000 lbs.

How do I get a drayage quote?

Call us at +1 (253) 277-7784 or visit our contact page. We provide fast, competitive quotes tailored to your shipment details.

Need help with your drayage or intermodal freight? Contact Singh Trucklines — CH Robinson’s #1 Intermodal Carrier (2025) — for a fast, competitive quote. Call +1 (253) 277-7784.