How to Build a Profitable Drayage Business as an Owner-Operator

If you’re running your trucking operation or thinking about becoming an owner-operator, it may be a good time to focus on building a profitable, scalable intermodal business. As an owner-operator in the drayage space, you're in full control: you decide when and where to run, what loads you accept, and how much you're bringing home.

But how do you set yourself up for long-term success and turn daily hauls into a sustainable, growing business? Let’s walk through the steps that go beyond just having your truck.

Set Your Business Up the Right Way

Before you hit the road, you need to lay the groundwork for your operation. Start by establishing your authority; intermodal freight requires both a DOT and MC number. You’ll also want to register your business; most owner-operators choose to form an LLC for liability protection and tax benefits. Next, ensure you’re properly covered with the right insurance. To haul on the DrayNow platform, that means $1 million in general liability and $100,000 in cargo coverage. Finally, make sure you have the proper equipment. For intermodal freight, you only need your tractor, since containers come mounted on chassis, and you’ll find the right freight for your business through local load boards or platforms like DrayNow.

Find Loads That Work for You!

One of the most powerful aspects of being an owner-operator is choosing your freight. To build a steady, profitable operation, look for:

Local intermodal loads with quick turnaround and minimal deadhead.
High-paying lanes where demand is strong and competition is lower.
Platforms that pay fast—DrayNow offers fast, reliable payment with no fees through direct pay.

With the DrayNow app, you can access a steady flow of freight from major rail terminals in your region and accept loads directly through your phone.

Manage Your Time to Maximize Profit

You only make money when your wheels are moving, so managing downtime is key.

Here’s how smart owner-operators do it:

Start early: Get to the rail early in the day to avoid congestion and get a head start on your route.
Stack loads: Plan back-to-back trips when possible to minimize gaps.
Track detention: If you’re delayed at a shipper or receiver, make sure to log your in-and-out times in the app to claim detention pay.

Stay on Top of Paperwork & Payments

Nothing eats into profits like missing paperwork or late payments. Stay organized by:

Uploading PODs and BOLs through the DrayNow app immediately after completing a trip.
Adding any accessorials—like stop-offs, chassis splits, or detention—before closing the load.
Choosing direct pay to receive your weekly earnings with no percentage taken out.

Need help? You can always call or message the DrayNow Carrier Success team directly from the app.

Think Like a Business Owner

The most successful owner-operators treat their trucking operation like any other small business. That means staying on top of expenses, setting aside money for maintenance, insurance, and taxes, and regularly analyzing what’s working. Which lanes are most profitable? What time of day helps you move more loads with less delay? These are the kinds of insights that help you run smarter. And when you’re ready to grow, that same business mindset will guide your next steps—whether it’s adding another truck or bringing on a driver. By thinking long-term and operating efficiently, you can build a drayage business that runs smoothly and earns consistently.

Ready to grow your business?

Download the DrayNow app today to find intermodal freight in your area and start building a more profitable operation on your terms.

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