Container Drayage and Customs Examination: What Happens When CBP Holds Your Container

When CBP Holds Your Container: What It Means for Drayage

Nothing disrupts container drayage scheduling like a CBP (Customs and Border Protection) examination hold at PortMiami. Understanding why holds happen, how long they take, and what they cost helps you manage the disruption.

Types of CBP Examinations

Document review: CBP wants to verify paperwork — usually resolved in 1-2 days. VACIS/X-ray scan: Non-intrusive imaging of the container — adds 1-3 days. Intensive exam: Container is opened, contents physically inspected — adds 3-7+ days and significant cost. Tailgate exam: Quick inspection of goods accessible at the container door.

Cost Impact

During examination, your container sits at the terminal accruing demurrage. CBP doesn’t reimburse demurrage even if your container clears with no issues. Intensive exams involve devanning (unloading) and restuffing charges billed by the terminal — often $1,000-$3,000+. Your drayage must be rescheduled, wasting the original dispatch.

How to Minimize Hold Risk

File accurate and complete customs entries. Maintain a clean import history. Use C-TPAT certified partners. Ensure your ISF (10+2) is filed on time. Work with an experienced freight forwarder who knows CBP requirements.

Go Freight Adapts to Holds

Go Freight’s dispatch team monitors container status and reschedules drayage pickups when CBP holds occur. We communicate proactively so you know what’s happening and can plan accordingly.