PortMiami Terminal Guide for Importers

PortMiami is one of the busiest container ports in the southeastern United States and the main gateway between the U.S. and Latin America and the Caribbean. For importers, knowing how its terminals, free time, and drayage work is the difference between fast, low-cost delivery and stacked demurrage charges.

How cargo flows through PortMiami

Your container is discharged from the vessel, held at the terminal until customs-released, then picked up by a drayage carrier within the free-time window. Missing that window triggers demurrage, so pre-clearing customs and booking drayage early are essential.

Drayage and chassis

An asset-based carrier with its own trucks and chassis pool can pull your box the day it is available, avoiding shortages and split fees. See our container drayage service.

Deconsolidation and storage

For LCL freight, a bonded CFS near the port deconsolidates shipments fast, and a bonded warehouse holds goods in-bond until you need them.

Frequently asked questions

How long is free time at PortMiami?

Terminals grant a limited number of free days after a container is available; the exact number is set by the ocean carrier. After that, demurrage accrues daily.

What is the fastest way to avoid demurrage?

Pre-file your ISF and customs entry so the container is releasable on discharge, and book drayage in advance to pick up within free time.

Importing through PortMiami? Get a quote or call (786) 445-0150.