What is Drayage Drayage Shipping Containers Bridging the Past and Future of Global1

What is Drayage Drayage Shipping Containers Bridging the Past and Future of Global1

What is Drayage? Drayage Shipping Containers: Bridging the Past and
Future of Global Trade
In the fast-paced world of global trade, the movement of goods is a well-oiled machine that keeps the
wheels of commerce turning. At the heart of this intricate system lies an unsung hero: drayage shipping
containers. These unassuming metal boxes have played a pivotal role in shaping the history of shipping
and continue to do so in the present day. In this article, we delve into the fascinating history of drayage
shipping containers and explore their indispensable role in the world of logistics.
The Origins of Drayage
The concept of drayage has its roots in the transportation of goods by horse-drawn wagons and carts.
The term "dray" originally referred to a low, strong wagon or cart used for transporting heavy loads short
distances. In the 19th century, drayage services were crucial in connecting ports to nearby warehouses,
factories, and railways. It was a labor-intensive process that required the strength of draft animals and
the determination of workers.
The Birth of the Container
The idea of using standardized containers for shipping cargo is much older than one might think. In the
18th century, wooden crates and barrels were commonplace for shipping, but their irregular sizes and
shapes posed numerous challenges. It wasn't until the mid-20th century that the modern shipping
container was born.
In 1956, American entrepreneur Malcolm McLean revolutionized the shipping industry by introducing
the first standardized metal shipping container. McLean's idea was simple yet transformative: create a
durable, uniform box that could be easily loaded onto ships, trains, and trucks, making cargo handling
faster and more efficient.
The Introduction of Intermodal Transportation
The introduction of standardized shipping containers gave rise to the concept of intermodal
transportation, where goods could seamlessly move from one mode of transportation to another
without the need for unpacking and repacking. This innovation not only reduced cargo damage but also
significantly cut down on transportation costs and time.
The Size Standardization
One of the key factors in the success of drayage shipping containers is the standardization of sizes. In
1961, the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) established the ISO container standards,
which included the now-familiar 20-foot and 40-foot container lengths. These standardized dimensions
allowed containers to be easily stacked on top of each other, maximizing space utilization on ships and in
storage yards.
Drayage in the Modern Era
Fast forward to the present day, and drayage containers continue to play a vital role in global trade.
Today's shipping containers come equipped with advanced technology, such as GPS tracking and
temperature control, ensuring the safe and efficient transport of a wide range of goods, from electronics
to perishable foods.
The Future of Drayage Shipping
As the world of logistics evolves, drayage containers are evolving too. The industry is exploring
environmentally friendly alternatives, such as electric drayage trucks, to reduce carbon emissions.
Additionally, innovations in automation and artificial intelligence are optimizing container handling
processes, making them even more efficient and cost-effective.
Drayage shipping containers have come a long way from the horse-drawn wagons of the past. Their
history is a testament to human ingenuity and the constant quest for improved efficiency in global trade.
These humble metal boxes have transformed the way we move goods around the world, and as we look
to the future, they will undoubtedly continue to shape the landscape of logistics. In an era of everincreasing globalization, drayage shipping containers are the unsung heroes that keep the wheels of
commerce turning smoothly.
Hard to Close Drayage Shipping Containers
Drayage shipping containers are the workhorses of global trade and logistics, providing a secure and
efficient means of transporting goods worldwide. While these containers are known for their durability
and reliability, they can sometimes be hard to open or close.
Weathering the Elements
Shipping containers spend a significant portion of their lives exposed to the elements, whether on the
high seas or in storage yards. Over time, the constant exposure to sun, rain, and temperature
fluctuations can take a toll on the container's exterior and locking mechanisms. Rust and corrosion can
form on the container's metal components, making them stiff and difficult to operate. This corrosion can
make it a struggle to turn the handles or engage the locking bars, making the container hard to open or
close securely.
Lack of Maintenance
Proper maintenance is crucial to keeping shipping containers in good working condition. Unfortunately,
not all containers receive the regular maintenance they need. Containers that are neglected or
abandoned may suffer from neglect, leading to issues with opening and closing. Without proper
lubrication and care, hinges can become rusty, seals can degrade, and locking mechanisms can become
jammed. Neglected containers often require more effort and tools to open, posing a significant challenge
for those trying to access their contents.
Cargo Shifting
During transit, cargo can shift within the container, especially if it is not properly secured. When cargo
shifts, it can exert pressure on the container's walls and doors, causing them to become misaligned. This
misalignment can make it difficult to open or close the container smoothly. In some cases, the doors may
become jammed or wedged shut due to the pressure from the cargo inside.
Human Error
Sometimes, the difficulty in opening or closing a shipping container can be attributed to human error. If a
container is not properly closed and locked, it may be challenging to open it later. Similarly, if someone
tries to force the container open without following the correct procedures, it can lead to damage and
make subsequent openings and closures problematic.
Solution
Equip operators with the proper tools needed and promote safety to help them avoid injury.
The OPNBar tool, for instance, can help avoid some injuries by providing an ergonomic means of opening
shipping containers, checking for low-pressure tires, and aiding operators in releasing the tractor from
the trailer.
This hand leverage tool / shipping container door extension handle uses the principles of leverage to do
the difficult work. By providing an extended area on which to grasp, with both hands, a more stable
platform to manipulate the latch handle is achieved.
Designed to fit and extend the door latch handles on side-by-side doors found on the following units
with the safety of the truck driver, operator, and worker foremost in mind:
Standard Shipping Containers
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Conex Boxes
Drayage Shipping Containers
Intermodal Containers
ISO Containers
Reefer Containers
Military Containers
Waste Management Containers
Dismountable Shipping Cargo Containers
Refrigerated Shipping Cargo Containers
Semitrailer Dry Freight Cargo Vans
Semitrailer Refrigerated Freight Cargo Vans
This intermodal container (also known as ISO Container, Conex Box, or Railroad Container) cargo
inspection tool hand leverage tool / shipping container door extension handle is to aid in opening and
closing side-by-side doors found within Dismountable Shipping Cargo Container Trailer Transportation
Industries (Railroad, Harbor, and Trucking Industries).
Eliminates the Need for a crescent wrench, screwdriver, hammer, and crowbar which are commonly
needed/used to open stuck shipping container doors.
Conclusion
While Drayage shipping containers are designed to be rugged and dependable, various factors can make
them challenging to open or close. These challenges often stem from exposure to the elements, lack of
maintenance, cargo shifting, and occasional human error. Proper care, regular maintenance, and
adherence to best practices for container handling can go a long way in mitigating these difficulties and
ensuring the smooth operation of shipping containers in the world of global trade and logistics.
Contact us : 10053 Whittwood Dr, Suite 11284 Whittier,
CA 90603 USA , 657.6.OPNBAR (657-667-6227)
Website : https://www.shippingcontainertool.com/what-is-drayage/