Container Drayage from PortMiami Tunnel: Routes and Tips

Container Drayage via the PortMiami Tunnel: What Drivers Need to Know

The PortMiami Tunnel, opened in 2014, was a game-changer for container drayage operations. By connecting Dodge Island directly to the MacArthur Causeway and I-395, it removed thousands of container trucks per day from downtown Miami streets — improving safety, reducing transit times, and easing congestion.

How the Tunnel Changed Drayage

Before the tunnel, every container truck leaving PortMiami had to drive through downtown Miami on surface streets to reach I-95 or I-395. This meant 18-wheelers navigating busy intersections, school zones, and pedestrian areas. The tunnel provides a direct underground connection from the port to the highway system, keeping trucks away from downtown.

Tunnel Restrictions

The PortMiami Tunnel has specific restrictions drayage carriers must follow: height limit of 15’9″ (no problem for standard containers), no hazardous materials — hazmat loads must use the old surface route over the bridge, no oversize loads — oversize and overweight containers are routed over the MacArthur Causeway bridge instead. Speed limit is 35 mph through the tunnel.

Best Routes After the Tunnel

Exiting the tunnel, trucks connect to I-395 eastbound, then merge onto I-95 for northbound or southbound destinations. For western destinations like Doral and the logistics corridor, drivers take I-395 to I-95 south to SR-836 (Dolphin Expressway) west. For Hialeah and Medley, I-95 north to the Palmetto Expressway (SR-826) is the standard route.

Go Freight Knows Every Route

Go Freight’s drivers navigate the PortMiami Tunnel and surrounding highway network daily. Our dispatch team routes trucks based on real-time traffic, container weight and cargo type, and destination — ensuring the fastest and most compliant drayage route for every move. Whether your container goes through the tunnel or over the bridge, we get it there efficiently.