What Is a Drayage Broker?
A drayage broker connects shippers with trucking companies to move freight between ports, rail yards, and warehouses. They secure capacity, manage schedules, and prevent costly delays.
Shippers face strict port deadlines and equipment shortages. A drayage broker ensures timely pickups, preventing demurrage and other extra fees. They also handle BOL paperwork and logistics so you can focus on your business.
How Drayage Brokers Help Shippers Save Money
Unexpected charges can quickly add up in drayage shipping. Brokers help mitigate these costs by planning ahead and managing logistics efficiently
.
One common fee is
demurrage, which occurs when a container stays at the port beyond its Last Free Day. Brokers ensure timely pickup to prevent these charges.
Drop fees
happen when a driver cannot unload a container immediately. Brokers coordinate with warehouses to avoid unnecessary drops.
Port fees add up fast. A drayage broker helps avoid:
- Demurrage Fees – Containers left at the port too long
- Drop Fees – Extra charges when unloading is delayed
- Overweight Fines – Exceeding legal weight limits
- Securing Capacity - Get your container routed inland
By planning ahead and optimizing the motor carrier selection, a dray broker keeps your shipments on time and on budget.
Common Drayage Challenges
Drayage shipping presents unique challenges, including port congestion, chassis shortages, and traffic delays. A skilled freight broker anticipates these issues and finds solutions.

Ports and rail yards are often in crowded urban areas. Poor route planning can lead to missed deadlines and higher costs. A broker optimizes routes to avoid congestion and ensure on-time delivery.
Chassis shortages create additional delays. Brokers work with multiple providers to secure chassis in advance, reducing the risk of shipment disruptions. They also monitor market trends to anticipate delays and adjust plans as needed.
Drayage isn’t just for short hauls. Transportation brokers also arrange the transfer of cargo from a shipping container to an
over-the-road (OTR) truck
for long-distance transport.
This process requires coordination between drayage carriers, warehouse operators, and OTR trucking companies. A broker ensures smooth transitions, avoiding costly delays or missed appointments.
Shippers with tight deadlines need fast, reliable service. Brokers schedule priority pickups, ensuring freight moves before port deadlines or Last Free Days. They work with carriers that specialize in expedited drayage services.
Why choose TLI for your Drayage Needs?
Need drayage shipping service? Sign up with TLI today!
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