You will find multiple definitions over the internet, but drayage is often described as the first mile in transportation, in simpler words. It usually involves hauling a cargo container short distances, typically from a port or harbor to a warehouse within the same metropolitan area.
Pros of Being a Drayage Trucker
Drayage trucking is a crucial part of Intermodal transportation and the supply chain. This practice dates back hundreds of years when multiple horses used to pull carts of heavy freight from ports to neighboring towns. Over time, with technological evolution, trucks replaced these horses. Here are a few pros of working as a drayage driver:
1. Shorter Routes
According to most drayage drivers, the most significant benefit of their job description is the shorter routes. Drivers usually complete at least one course (mostly multiple) in a single shift and get back home every night.
2. Variety of Consistent Shifts
Intermodal shipping runs round the clock, with cargo moving in and out of rail terminals the entire day. This suggests that drivers have greater freedom when choosing their hours, giving them more time for life outside of work.
3. Hauling “no-touch” Cargo
Drayage truckers usually don’t do any leg work of loading and unloading cargo from the truck. Hence, it minimized physical labor.
Cons of being a Drayage Trucker
1. Stress
As a drayage driver, you must face delays, deadlines, poor directions, and unavoidable traffic. Do not forget lazy consignees and some lousy weather somedays.
2. Lack of Sleep
Once you start working as a drayage driver, you will realize that some companies don’t follow the rules and regulations. Even if you try your best to follow the guidelines, your work schedule will change. You would have to rest when you don’t feel tired, and you might need to drive when you are exhausted. The only solution is to be adaptable.
3. Loneliness in the Workplace
Drayage drivers spend prolonged periods alone on the highway. Even if they commute on local loads only, they are expected to be hauling most of the day without much human contact. This could affect their mental health.
FAQs
Q. How to become a drayage driver?
Becoming a drayage trucker is a relatively simple process. The first step involves getting your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). Obtaining the license is usually simple and takes around seven weeks on average. Additionally, you need to take a physical examination test and pass.
Q. How do you define intermodal drayage?
The logistics involved in the coordination and shipping of crates, containers, and products around the globe depend on precise calculations and planning. Drayage is the movement of these shipments between shorter routes, such as between the major ports and malls or warehouses.
Conclusion
When analyzing the pros and cons of working as a truck driver, it is evident that some people are meant for life on the road. However, others adapt to it because it’s their best shot to earn money. By the end of the day, you need to decide what you want from your life. You may visit Gillson Trucking for more Information.
