How Much Does Drayage Cost Per Container?

Drayage costs can make or break your shipping budget, especially if you move high volumes of containers through the Port of Seattle or Port of Tacoma. Understanding what drives drayage rates and how to control them is essential for any PNW shipper. This guide breaks down the factors that affect drayage cost and shares tips to reduce your spend.

Average Drayage Costs in the Pacific Northwest

Drayage rates in the Seattle-Tacoma market typically range from $200 to $600 per move for standard 40-foot containers, depending on distance and conditions. Here’s a general breakdown: Port-to-warehouse (under 25 miles): $200-$350. Port-to-warehouse (25-50 miles): $300-$450. Port-to-warehouse (50-100 miles): $400-$600. Overweight container surcharge: $75-$200 additional. Rail ramp drayage: $250-$500.

These are base rates — actual costs vary based on the factors below. The best way to get an accurate quote is to contact a drayage carrier with your specific shipment details.

Factors That Affect Drayage Cost

Several variables determine your final drayage cost: Distance — longer moves cost more. Container size — 20-ft, 40-ft, and 45-ft containers have different rates. Weight — overweight containers require tri-axle or quad-axle chassis, which cost more. Chassis type — standard, tri-axle, and quad-axle chassis have different rates. Terminal fees — some terminals charge access or appointment fees. Time of day — after-hours, weekend, and holiday moves cost more. Fuel surcharges — fluctuate with diesel prices. Peak season — rates increase during high-demand periods.

Hidden Costs: Demurrage and Detention

The drayage rate is just the beginning. If your container sits at the port too long, you’ll also pay demurrage ($75-$300/day) and detention ($75-$200/day) fees. These can quickly exceed the drayage cost itself if pickups are delayed.

Working with an asset-based carrier like Singh Trucklines — with 100+ chassis and daily port operations — minimizes the risk of demurrage by ensuring timely pickups.

How to Reduce Your Drayage Costs

1. Use an asset-based carrier — avoid chassis availability delays that lead to demurrage. 2. Book early — arrange drayage before the container arrives. 3. Use dual transactions — combine import pickup with empty return to save a trip. 4. Transload near the port — devan at a near-port facility to return empties fast. 5. Consolidate moves — batch multiple container pickups in one dispatch. 6. Negotiate volume rates — if you move 10+ containers/month, ask about contract pricing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does drayage cost per container?

Drayage typically costs $200-$600 per move for standard containers in the Pacific Northwest, depending on distance, weight, and terminal fees. Contact us for an exact quote.

Why is drayage so expensive?

Drayage costs reflect equipment (chassis), labor (TWIC-certified drivers), fuel, terminal fees, and regulatory compliance. Overweight containers and peak season demand increase costs further.

How can I reduce my drayage costs?

Use an asset-based carrier with their own chassis, book early, use dual transactions, transload near the port, and negotiate volume rates if you move 10+ containers per month.

Do you offer volume drayage discounts?

Yes. Singh Trucklines offers contract pricing for shippers moving 10+ containers per month. Contact us at +1 (253) 277-7784 for a volume quote.

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.