Drop

What is a drop?

A drop is a type of trucking delivery for FCL shipments where the trucker drops off the container at the warehouse and then leaves, instead of waiting while the container is unloaded. Once Flexport is informed that the container has been unloaded, the driver will return to pick up the empty container (generally within 48 hours).

The trucker will charge a drop fee because it requires an extra trip.

When should a drop be arranged?

A drop should be considered if the cargo cannot be unloaded immediately upon arrival at the warehouse, or if the cargo cannot be unloaded quickly, since the trucker is usually unable to wait for several hours (and waiting time gets expensive).

For example:

• If the cargo consists of loose, floor-loaded cartons (which take longer to unload)
• If the warehouse is understaffed and/or congested.

How does a drop compare with a live unload?

In a live unload, the trucker waits at the warehouse while the crew empties the container, and waiting charges can build up if unloading runs long. A drop frees the trucker to take other work. You'll pay a drop fee, and the container stays at your dock until the driver returns. Full Container Load (FCL) shipments with loose-loaded cartons often suit a drop better.

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