How can I earn money as a drayage trucker under the UIIA?

1. What is drayage?
Drayage refers to the short-distance transportation of containers or cargo between ports, rail yards, terminals, and warehouses. It’s a critical part of intermodal shipping.

2. What is the UIIA?
The UIIA (Uniform Intermodal Interchange and Facilities Access Agreement) is a standard agreement that allows motor carriers and owner-operators to access intermodal equipment (containers, chassis) and participating terminals under defined rules and liability protections.

3. Why do I need the UIIA to earn as a drayage trucker?
Terminals and equipment providers require a signed UIIA to allow access to containers and chassis.
UIIA compliance ensures you can legally pick up, drop off, and transport intermodal equipment.
Protects you from liability for equipment damage while in your custody.

4. How do drayage truckers earn money under the UIIA?
Per-trip fees: Carriers are paid per container moved between terminals, ports, and warehouses.
Accessorial charges: Additional payments for waiting time, detention, layovers, or special handling.
Contracts with brokers or shippers: Drayage operators can establish agreements with logistics companies to provide consistent work.

5. Can owner-operators participate?
Yes. Independent owner-operators can earn money moving containers under the UIIA, as long as they:
Sign the UIIA agreement
Maintain required insurance
Comply with equipment handling and terminal rules

6. How does equipment type affect earnings?
Standard containers/chassis typically have routine rates.
Specialized equipment (reefer containers, oversized chassis) may pay higher rates due to extra handling requirements.

7. Does experience or CSA score impact earning potential?
Yes. Carriers with strong safety records, CSA scores, and UIIA compliance are more likely to secure higher-paying contracts and consistent work from brokers and shippers.

8. How can I maximize income as a drayage trucker under UIIA?
Build relationships with ports, terminals, and brokers
Minimize downtime by planning efficient routes
Track detention, layover, and accessorial charges to ensure all billable work is paid
Maintain equipment and compliance to avoid delays and fines

9. Are there risks involved?
Delays at terminals can reduce income if detention fees aren’t covered.
Damaging UIIA equipment can result in liability and affect future work.
Non-compliance with UIIA or DOT rules can lead to suspension or fines.

10. Key takeaway
Earning money as a drayage trucker under the UIIA requires signing the agreement, maintaining insurance, and following all operational rules. Proper compliance, efficiency, and relationship-building with brokers and terminals are key to maximizing income.