Cost structure / standard tiers
Drayage pricing is generally quoted as a base move rate plus accessorials that apply situationally.
| Component | Basis | Typical Range |
|---|---|---|
| Local move (under 20 miles) | Per container | $200-350 |
| Inland Empire move (50-70 miles) | Per container | $450-650 |
| Fuel surcharge | Percentage of base rate | 15-30% (fluctuates with diesel prices) |
| Chassis split fee (if not included) | Per move | $50-150 |
| Terminal wait time / detention | Per hour after 1-2 free hours | $50-100/hour |
| Pre-pull fee | Per container | $75-150 |
Peak season surcharges of an additional 10-20% on base rates are common during high-volume import periods, and negotiated rate agreements with capacity commitments typically outperform spot-market drayage pricing by 10-15%.
Risk mitigation / operational guidance
Request itemized rate quotes that separate base move, fuel surcharge, and accessorials, since "all-in" quotes during peak periods often bury surcharges that would otherwise be negotiable. Track terminal wait times by carrier and time of day — drayage providers that consistently report 2+ hour gate waits are passing that cost through as detention, and rebooking appointments for off-peak windows can reduce it. For high-volume lanes, negotiate committed-volume rates with 2-3 drayage providers that maintain owned chassis pools, which provides rate stability, reduces split-fee exposure, and gives backup capacity if one provider is constrained. Audit invoices against actual move dates and accessorial justifications monthly — pre-pull and detention charges are the most common source of billing disputes in drayage.