If you're a forwarder in India, Asia, the Middle East or Europe moving full containers into the US, the ocean leg is usually the easy part. The US-side drayage (getting the container from the terminal to your consignee) is where delays and extra charges happen when things aren't lined up in time.
This guide walks through what has to happen, in order, and what to send so a US provider can quote quickly.
Before the vessel sailsLink to the section “Before the vessel sails”
- Security filing: for ocean imports into the US, the importer's security filing (often called ISF or "10+2") has to be filed before the container is loaded at the foreign port. It's usually handled by the US customs broker or the forwarder.
- Choose the discharge port with the final delivery address in mind. The closest port by road isn't always the one your carrier serves best, but distance drives the drayage cost. The best-port finder ranks all 18 ports for any US ZIP.
- Line up a US customs broker to file the entry.
While the container is at seaLink to the section “While the container is at sea”
- Get a drayage quote early. Send your shipment details (see the list below) so the rate and the provider are agreed before arrival.
- Share the documents the provider will need: the bill of lading number, container number, vessel and ETA, and the delivery address with receiving hours.
- Plan the delivery: will the consignee unload while the driver waits (live unload), or should the container be dropped and collected later (drop and pick)?
When the vessel arrivesLink to the section “When the vessel arrives”
The container can't leave the terminal until it is released:
- Freight release from the ocean carrier: freight and charges paid, and the original bill of lading surrendered or a telex or express release issued.
- Customs release once the entry is accepted.
- Other holds cleared, where they apply (for example from the FDA or USDA).
Then the provider checks availability, books a terminal appointment where required, collects the container and delivers it. Keep an eye on the last free day; our guide to demurrage vs detention explains why it matters.
What to send for a fast, accurate quoteLink to the section “What to send for a fast, accurate quote”
- Port of discharge (or rail ramp)
- Delivery ZIP code and address type (warehouse, distribution centre, retail, residential)
- Container size and type (20ft, 40ft, 40ft high cube, 45ft; dry or reefer)
- Number of containers and how often you ship
- Cargo weight, and whether it's hazardous (class and UN number) or needs temperature control
- Ready date or vessel ETA
- Live unload or drop and pick
- Any delivery requirements (appointments, liftgate, receiving hours)
The DrayageUS quote form covers the essentials; add anything else (weight, live unload or drop, delivery requirements) in its notes box, so a licensed US provider can send a firm quote within 24 hours.
Booking from outside the USLink to the section “Booking from outside the US”
You don't need to be awake when the container is released. Agree the rate and the delivery plan before arrival, and ask for email updates at pickup and delivery. The provider handles the booking and the move directly with you once you accept the quote.
Common mistakes to avoidLink to the section “Common mistakes to avoid”
- Booking the truck only after the container is available, when free time is already running.
- Missing the carrier release (unpaid charges or no bill of lading surrendered).
- Not declaring heavy or hazardous cargo, which leads to re-quotes and delays.
- A delivery address with no receiving hours or appointment, which leads to dry runs.
Check the typical range for your port and delivery ZIP, then request a firm quote.