How to become a Drayage Carrier

So you’ve made the decision to become a drayage carrier. Now you might be wondering, “What’s the next move?” Don’t worry! It’s, like embarking on something where you’re not exactly sure where to begin. So just take a moment to relax and lets have a conversation.

We’re here to assist you in understanding everything about drayage carriers in an straightforward manner. We’ll break it down step-by-step so that you won’t feel bewildered anymore. Are you ready to start? Lets dive in!

Business Entity Requirement:

• Drayage carriers must operate as a registered business entity with a minimum fleet size of 10 trucks and are not allowed to engage in brokerage activities.

Safety Rating:

• Drayage carriers must maintain a satisfactory safety rating.

Carrier Authority:

• Carriers must agree to transport all freight from CSXI Terminals using equipment operating solely under their own authority.
• Sub-contracting, brokering, or any other third-party arrangements for freight transport are not allowed.

Hazardous Materials:

• Carriers must possess USDOT Hazardous Materials Registration or provide a letter confirming their non-registration and commitment not to haul Hazmat loads.

SCAC Code:

• A valid SCAC (Standard Carrier Alpha Code) is required.

NMFTA Membership:

• Valid membership with the National Motor Freight Traffic Association is mandatory.

UIIA Membership:

• Carriers must have a valid membership with the Uniform Intermodal Interchange Agreement (UIIA).

CSX Intermodal Terminals Approval:

• Carriers must attain “Approved” status with CSX Intermodal Terminals, Inc., through UIIA, to transport rail equipment.
• Issues related to interchange access can be directed to Stephanie Turner at CSX.

Insurance Requirements:

• Certificates of Insurance are to be submitted directly to UIIA and should include the following coverage:
  • Auto Liability (Bobtail) – $1,000,000
  • Comprehensive General Liability – $1,000,000
  • Motor Truck Cargo – $100,000
  • Trailer Physical Damage – $30,000
  • Workers’ Compensation / Employers Liability – $500,000
• CSX Intermodal Terminals must be named as additional insured on Auto and General Liability policies.

Vehicle Marking:

• All commercial motor vehicles entering CSX facilities must display the carrier name and assigned USDOT number on both sides of the power unit.
• The markings must be:
  • On both sides of the vehicle.
  • In contrasting colors with the background.
  • Legible from 50 feet during daylight while the vehicle is stationary.

Comcheks:

• Drayage carriers are responsible for providing their own Comcheks for Lumpers and other expenses.
• CSX Intermodal Terminals will no longer issue Comcheks to drivers or Independent Contractors working for Drayage Carriers under any circumstances.