Click here to get this post in PDF
In the complex world of logistics, drayage plays a critical yet often overlooked role in keeping supply chains moving efficiently. This specialized form of freight transportation – moving shipping and intermodal containers between ports, rail yards, and distribution centers over short distances – requires expertise, asset investment, precise coordination, and deep local knowledge. In Chicago, one company has been perfecting this essential service for decades: Global CFS, Inc.
Understanding Drayage: The Critical First Mile
Drayage represents the crucial “first mile” or “last mile” in intermodal shipping, bridging the gap between long-haul transportation and local delivery. When containers arrive at any of Chicago’s city or suburban rail yards, they need to be quickly and efficiently moved to their next destination – whether that’s a warehouse, regional distribution center, or Global CFS’s Centralized Examination Site (CES).
The Global CFS Advantage
As a provider of multiple types of first and final-mile services, Global understands the differences between LTL, full-truckload, drayage and other types of traditional trucking moves. Global CFS brings several unique advantages to their container transportation services:
Extensive Fleet and Equipment
- Fleet of 40+ specialized trucks equipped for container transport
- Comprehensive chassis pool to ensure expedited loading and alleviate shortages
- Support for all container types including 20s, 40s, 45s, and high cube containers
- GPS-equipped tractors and trailers for real-time tracking and monitoring
Strategic Coverage
- Operations across all major Chicagoland rail depots including BNSF locations, UP/Global 4, Norfolk Southern, CSX locations, CP locations, and CN Harvey
- Service radius extending 200-250 miles from Chicago
- Strategically positioned drivers to optimize response times
- 24/7 dispatch support with staggered shifts for continuous coverage
Security and Compliance
- CBP Class 4 Bonded Container Yard for secure storage
- Real-time GPS monitoring and tracking
- Comprehensive insurance coverage
Technology Integration
- Advanced Trinium Technologies TMS system
- Real-time GPS tracking through TMS and dashcam systems
- Customer portal access for shipment visibility
- Electronic documentation and reporting capabilities
Beyond Basic Drayage
What sets Global CFS apart is their comprehensive approach to container logistics. Rather than just moving containers from point A to point B, they offer integrated services that streamline the entire process:
Customs Examination Services
As the U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s designated Centralized Examination Station #1 for the Port of Chicago, Global CFS provides seamless handling of containers requiring customs inspection, eliminating additional moves and reducing delays.
Container Freight Station Services
Their 115,000-square-foot headquarters facility in Bensenville offers:
- Breakbulk services
- Container stuffing and unstuffing
- Cross-docking
- Short-term storage solutions
- Distribution services
Value-Added Services
- Container weight verification
- Proper labeling and documentation
- Cargo sorting and segregation
- Automated Manifest System (AMS) processing
- Foreign Trade Zone capabilities
A Commitment to Excellence
Global CFS’s success in drayage operations stems from their unwavering commitment to service excellence. Their team of experienced drivers understands the unique challenges of container transportation in the Chicago area, from navigating urban traffic to managing seasonal weather conditions. This expertise, combined with their substantial investment in technology and infrastructure, ensures reliable, efficient container movements for their customers.
Looking to the Future
As supply chains become increasingly complex and time-sensitive, the role of efficient drayage services becomes even more critical. Global CFS continues to invest in new technologies, expand their fleet, and enhance their service offerings to meet evolving customer needs. Their recent improvements include:
- Addition of new flatbed roller trailers
- Implementation of enhanced GPS tracking systems
- Expansion of their chassis pool
- Development of new customer service technologies
Conclusion
In the niche market segment of trucking that is container drayage, experience and capabilities matter. Global CFS’s decades of service to the Chicago logistics community, combined with their comprehensive service offerings and commitment to technological advancement, position them as a leader in this essential sector. As supply chains continue to evolve and coastal transloading and strategic distribution facilities near major population centers continue to grow, offering the logistics companies representing cargo owners a reliable first and final mile partner makes Global CFS a leading choice in a crowded and uneven field of competitors.
You may also like: Why Liftgates Are a Game-Changer for Small Business Logistics
Image source: elements.envato.com
