🗺 Location & Routes
- Base city: Laredo, Texas
- Route type: Local Intermodal Drayage
- Freight: Rail containers (import/export)
- Schedule: Monday–Saturday, variable start times based on rail arrivals
📦 Freight Flow Snapshot
- Daily volume: Multiple container moves per shift tied to train schedules
- Average haul distance: 20–60 miles
- Primary freight lanes: Rail ramps ↔ Customs yards ↔ Local distribution centers
- Load type consistency: High – standardized intermodal containers
- Peak dispatch hours: Early morning train unload windows
📋 Job Description
- Perform local container drayage between Union Pacific / Border Rail ramp facilities, customs inspection yards, and nearby cross-dock distribution centers in the Laredo area.
- Handle inbound international containers from Mexican rail connections and domestic rail traffic, moving them through inspection and release processes.
- Execute chassis swaps, empty container repositioning, and tight yard maneuvering within congested intermodal terminals.
- Coordinate with rail terminal dispatch, customs brokers, and yard personnel using provided systems to meet train schedules and avoid demurrage.
- Verify container IDs, ensure proper chassis pairing, and maintain safe backing and navigation practices in high-density container environments.
- Complete backhauls by returning empties to rail ramps or staging chassis for incoming loads while following real-time dispatch updates.
✅ Requirements
CDL Class A
Valid CDL-A license required
Experience
Minimum 6 months driving experience preferred
Age
Minimum 21 years old
MVR
Clean driving record, no major violations in last 3 years
Physical
Able to operate in tight yard environments with frequent backing and maneuvering
Endorsements
None required (No HazMat)
🚛 Equipment & Fleet
- Truck assignment: Dedicated day cab tractors (primarily International LT625 models)
- Fleet average age: 2023–2024 models
- Features: Cummins X15 engines, automated manual transmissions, air-ride seats, backup cameras, Samsara ELD, container scanning integration, and industrial-grade interiors
🏠 Home Time
- Home daily after completing assigned moves, with shifts typically ending in Laredo
- Start times generally range from 4:00 AM to 8:00 AM depending on rail arrival patterns
- Average shift length 8–11 hours, with occasional extension during peak rail surges
- Workweek runs primarily Monday through Saturday, Sundays generally off except for occasional rotational needs
📍 Real Routes Our Drivers Take
- Rail ramp at Laredo border facilities to nearby customs inspection yards (short shuttle moves)
- Customs release yards to regional cross-dock warehouses along the I-35 corridor
- Empty container returns and chassis repositioning within the greater Laredo terminal network
🎁 Benefits & Bonus Structure
📝 Hiring Process
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
How are moves assigned throughout the day?
Moves are dispatched in waves based on train arrivals and customs clearance releases. Real-time updates come through the rail integration system and yard communications.
Is chassis flipping and yard maneuvering a big part of the job?
Yes. Drivers regularly reposition chassis and handle tight backing in stacked container yards. Precision and situational awareness are critical for safety and efficiency.
What happens during train delays or customs holds?
Detention pay applies after 2 hours. Drivers may be assigned standby at $18/hr or reposition empties while waiting for the next release.
Do drivers have a dedicated truck?
Day cabs are assigned from the regional fleet with priority given based on seniority and performance.
Are there opportunities for overtime?
Yes, during high-volume import cycles, port backups, or backlog clearance periods.
What technology systems will I use daily?
Samsara ELD, container ID scanning, GPS yard geofencing, and rail ramp dispatch integration.
🧭 Dispatch Notes (Live Feed)
- Dispatch follows rail operator feeds and customs status for container releases
- Early shifts prioritized for inbound train surges; afternoons often focus on repositioning
- Drivers must maintain constant communication via yard radio or system updates
- System update: Real-time integration with Union Pacific / Border Rail schedules
- Load priority status: Customs-cleared containers receive first priority
⚠️ Operational Risk Layer
- Weather exposure zones: South Texas heat and occasional heavy rain impacting yard traction
- Traffic congestion risk: High within terminal yards during peak train activity
- Load delay probability: Tied to customs processing and rail schedule variances
- Equipment sensitivity: Proper chassis alignment and container securement required
- Compliance checkpoints: Frequent yard safety inspections and container seal verification
🔗 CDL-A Intermodal Rail Drayage Driver – Laredo, Texas
Laredo remains one of the busiest inland rail and border freight hubs in the country, with steady container volume moving between Mexican rail connections and U.S. distribution networks. This local intermodal drayage role keeps drivers home every night while working the rail ramps that feed much of the cross-border supply chain. Drivers handle standardized container moves on modern day cab tractors, with pay structured around hourly base plus per-move incentives that reward productivity during train unload cycles. The position suits experienced CDL-A drivers comfortable in yard environments who value predictable home time over long-haul miles. With consistent rail traffic, opportunities for safety bonuses, and direct work with customs and terminal operations, this role offers stable local work in a market where intermodal knowledge is highly valued. Weekly earnings typically range from $1,400 to $1,900 depending on container volume and personal efficiency.
🚀 Apply for This CDL-A Position
Complete the form below to apply for CDL-A Intermodal Rail Drayage Driver in Laredo, Texas.