Durham

Durham centers its economy on its medical and research sectors. Therefore, most of the city’s imports and exports are medicines, vaccines, and medical treatment products. Because of the state’s proximity to the Northern Atlantic Ocean, Durham mainly trades with Europe; the city exports to Austria, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Spain, Austria, and Ireland while importing from Ireland, the United Kingdom, France, Belgium, and Germany.

 

The city’s main employers are Duke University and its healthcare system, with approximately 35,000 employees. Though the city’s primary industries are education, healthcare, and research, Durham does have a variety of companies from different sectors that have settled into the city. These businesses were attracted to Durham’s central location, higher education and research developments, and the city’s overall atmosphere as a professional-driven place.

Listed below are companies headquartered in Durham:

These companies are crucial to driving the city’s economy, as most are involved in developing and distributing major imports and exports.  As the city continues to embrace new infrastructures and industries, its status as a logistics powerhouse will also continue to rise.

Freight Shipping Rates To Any City

Shipping from city to city can be challenging. But it doesn’t have to be if you work with FreightCenter. We’re a 3PL dedicated to enhancing your shipping experience. We’ll find reputable carriers in your metropolitan area from our extensive network of over 50 shipping companies.

No matter where your freight is shipping to or from, Enjoy reliable, cost-effective freight services with easy booking and tracking tools. FreightCenter knows how to ship freight right!

Call us at (800) 716-7608, or use our free online quote tool to find and compare rates to and from any city in North America!

FreightCenter’s vast network of carriers includes companies servicing the Durham metro area. We connect customers to reputable trucking carriers, finding the right one for your shipping needs. Some of FreightCenter’s partnered freight shipping companies include:

Note: FreightCenter adds and removes carrier partners from time to time. This list may not be current. Ask your FreightCenter agent for assistance.

Durham’s Major Highways and Freeways

Several major highways and tollways service the Durham Metro area. These include the following:

• I-40
• I-85
• US 15/US 501
• NC 147

 

 

Durham’s Major Ports, Terminals, and Warehouses

Durham does not have their own port, relying on North Carolina’s three major ports (Morehead, Wilmington, and Charlotte) for domestic and international trade. The Raleigh-Durham International Airport acts as the city’s port, as it is a port of entry into the US and has several acres of land dedicated to warehousing and distribution for cargo airline carriers.

Durham Railroads

Durham has several railroads that run through the city. Most of these rail lines pass through North Carolina’s ports, cutting through towards other destinations. These railroads include:

• Norfolk Southern, running a line from the Port of Morehead to the east all the way to Durham, continuing west from there.
• CSX Transportation, which runs a north-south line from the city down to a fork that splits to Dunham and Raleigh, continuing down to the south of the state.
• The North Carolina Railroad Company operates a 317-mile rail system from Charlotte, NC, to Morehead City.

Durham Airports and Commercial Airlines

The city’s primary airport is the Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU), located 12 miles southeast of Durham. The airport offers domestic and international flights via three runaways and 5,000 acres of land. Their air cargo division is divided into two sections: the South Cargo area, which houses cargo shipped via commercial airlines, and the North Cargo area, which houses cargo airline carriers and their facilities. More than 136 tons of freight pass through RDU daily, with FedEx and UPS being the biggest cargo operators at the airport.

Cost to Ship Freight to Durham

Several factors influence the cost when shipping to and from Durham. This includes:

• Type, size, and weight: Shipping heavy equipment, perishable goods, or specialized cargo will affect pricing. Durham offers a variety of shipping options, from standard LTL to temperature-controlled and expedited services, ensuring your freight arrives safely and securely.
• Seasonal changes and demand: Durham’s rates fluctuate as much as the seasons change, especially during severe weather events or peak holiday shipping seasons.
• Shipping distance: How far are you shipping your freight? The length between point A and point B will heavily determine your rate. Popular routes to and from Durham include major cities like Chicago, Baltimore, New York City, and Atlanta, where established rates can result in competitive rates.
• What transportation mode is used: How you get your freight to and from Durham matters. LTL freight shipping via truck is much cheaper than air or rail shipping. However, it is also riskier and slower than those two, especially when your freight passes through multiple terminals throughout the city.
• Accessorial Charges: Additional services, such as liftgate requirements, residential delivery, or limited access locations, can impact the final shipping price. Durham’s vast network of carriers ensures you can find a provider that offers the services you need at the right price.

Durham offers competitive rates due to its extensive network of freight carriers, proximity to key markets, and multiple transportation options. The city provides flexible and cost-effective solutions tailored to your needs, whether shipping less-than-truckload (LTL), full truckload (FTL), air cargo, intermodal cargo, or ocean and container drayage.

Why Choose Durham for Your Shipping Needs?

Shipping to and from Durham offers unique advantages other metropolitan areas with logistics hubs can’t offer:

• Gateway to Europe: Durham does trade primarily with Europe, creating a tight bond based on economic development. The city’s international flights and connection to North Carolina’s three major ports make it easy for domestic businesses to form connection with European companies and expand their logistics operations abroad.
• Healthcare and Research Center: The city is home to Duke University’s health programs, one of the largest employers in Durham. Their main export is vaccines and medications, an expensive venture that requires specialized handling. Businesses within that sector are guaranteed to find carriers in the city with experience in white glove services.
• Central Location: Durham is located in the upper north region of the state, making it a good place for businesses wishing to expand their operations without butting into others in the bigger cities.

How to Ship Freight to Durham

When shipping from Durham, start by gathering accurate information on what you are shipping, like the weight and dimensions, including the packaging. The freight will be handled multiple times at several freight terminals along the way. To protect your shipment during transport, crating an item is recommended.

You can compare Durham freight rates with our freight quote tool and find a carrier that meets your pricing and shipping needs. Ask our in-house shipping experts which carrier will be best for your shipment. They will also advise you if any other fees or special services are needed when shipping to Durham.

Get the Best Durham Freight Rates Today

To find the most competitive rates for shipping freight to or from Durham, use our online freight quote tool. Instantly compare rates from over 50 carriers and choose the best option for your needs. Alternatively, call 800.716.7608 to speak with one of our freight experts and receive a custom quote tailored to your shipment.

Make Durham your next shipping destination and experience reliable, cost-effective freight services from a city that’s a leader in logistics and transportation.