Port of Virginia Drayage: How to Avoid Per-Diem and Detention Fees
A practical guide to container drayage from Norfolk and Portsmouth terminals, with tips to stay inside free time and lower inland costs with transloading.
· 6 min read
What drayage means
Drayage is the short-haul movement of shipping containers between a port or rail ramp and a nearby warehouse, transload facility or customer.
At the Port of Virginia, that typically means pulling containers from Norfolk International Terminals, Virginia International Gateway, Portsmouth Marine Terminal or the Richmond Marine Terminal.
Understanding demurrage, per-diem and detention
Demurrage is charged by the terminal when a container stays on port property past free time. Per-diem (or detention) is charged by the ocean carrier when you keep their container or chassis too long outside the port.
These fees add up fast, which is why quick devanning and empty returns are so important.
How transloading lowers costs
By transloading containers at a facility near the port or along I-64, you can return the container quickly and consolidate freight into 53’ domestic trailers. Three 40’ containers often fit into two 53’ trailers.
Tips for smoother drayage
Share container numbers and availability early. Confirm delivery appointments before the container is pulled. Choose a partner who can devan, store and distribute so freight is not stuck on a chassis waiting for a dock.