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UIIA Registration and Application Process

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  • GLI Dispatch Services
  • July 29, 2025

UIIA Registration and Application Process

In the world of intermodal freight, drayage trucking is a critical link between ports, rail yards, and final destinations. For any carrier involved in this segment, registration under the Uniform Intermodal Interchange and Facilities Access Agreement (UIIA) is essential. Managed by the Intermodal Association of North America (IANA), the UIIA standardizes how trucking companies interact with equipment providers such as steamship lines, leasing companies, and railroads.

UIIA registration isn’t optional—it’s a gateway. Without it, truckers are denied access to most major ports and terminals across the U.S. and Canada. If your operations involve moving containers, picking up loads from container yards, or accessing intermodal equipment, then UIIA membership is mandatory.

Understanding UIIA's Role

The UIIA agreement streamlines legal and operational relationships between carriers and equipment providers. It clarifies responsibilities, limits liability disputes, and ensures standardized processes at facilities like ports and rail terminals. This structure enhances safety, accountability, and transparency in intermodal operations. UIIA-registered carriers are viewed as reliable partners by brokers and shippers, making registration not just a necessity but also a credibility boost.

Who Must Register

Drayage carriers moving containers between ports and distribution hubs, power-only carriers hauling intermodal chassis, and independent owner-operators contracting with intermodal companies must all register under the UIIA. Essentially, if your truck touches a container from a steamship line or accesses a terminal that handles international freight, you need to be UIIA-compliant.

Why It Matters

The benefits of UIIA registration go beyond just terminal access. It grants legal use of intermodal equipment provided by participating companies and ensures you meet industry standards for liability and insurance. Carriers also benefit from a more predictable operating environment, as the agreement clearly defines which party is responsible in case of equipment damage or accidents.

Insurance Requirements

One of the most important parts of the UIIA application process is meeting insurance standards. Carriers must provide proof of commercial auto liability insurance with a minimum of $1 million in coverage, listing IANA as the certificate holder. General liability insurance of the same amount is also required. Although cargo insurance isn’t directly mandated by UIIA, many providers ask for at least $100,000 in coverage.

Trailer interchange insurance or non-owned trailer coverage is another essential requirement, typically ranging between $20,000 and $40,000 per trailer. All insurance must be backed by carriers with an A.M. Best rating of A- or better. Submitting incomplete or incorrectly worded insurance documents is the most common cause of delays and denials in the registration process.

How to Apply for UIIA Registration

The application process begins by collecting essential information, including your DOT and MC numbers, Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN), insurance documents, and a list of equipment providers you plan to work with. Once you have everything, visit the UIIA portal at uiia.org and register for an account.

During the application, you’ll provide business details, billing contacts, operational areas (like port or terminal locations), and insurance policy numbers. You must electronically agree to the terms outlined in the UIIA agreement. Uploading valid insurance documents that exactly match UIIA requirements is a critical step. Errors in coverage limits or terminology—such as mislabeling “trailer interchange”—will cause rejections.

After uploading your documents, you’ll be asked to pay a registration fee, usually between $150 and $250. If all submissions meet the criteria, approval typically arrives within two to five business days.

After Registration: What Comes Next?

Once you’re approved, you’ll need to establish separate working relationships with each equipment provider you intend to partner with. These include major players like Maersk, Evergreen, TRAC Intermodal, Flexi-Van, and Union Pacific. Each provider may have specific requirements for accessing their systems or using their equipment. These can include equipment rental agreements, additional insurance clauses, or setting up digital appointment systems at terminals.

Staying compliant after registration is just as important as the initial approval. Keep insurance documents updated annually, and inform IANA of any changes to your company’s contact information or operating status. Equipment providers also expect timely return of containers and adherence to interchange rules.

Risks of Non-Compliance

Operating without UIIA registration—or letting your membership lapse—can severely impact your business. Most intermodal facilities will deny entry, and you won’t be allowed to legally move containers owned by UIIA-participating equipment providers. Additionally, you could be subject to penalties or placed on a non-compliance list, which could hurt your standing with brokers and shippers.

UIIA's Relevance in Today's Industry

The importance of UIIA registration is growing as intermodal freight expands in response to global trade, e-commerce, and port modernization efforts. Small fleets and independent operators are increasingly entering this market to move containers between ports, rail yards, and inland warehouses.

By becoming UIIA-compliant, you unlock access to a wide range of lucrative loads and strategic partnerships. It enables your business to grow from local or regional dry van work into coast-to-coast intermodal shipping—a sector known for stability, consistent freight, and strong demand.

Final Thoughts

For any drayage or intermodal carrier, UIIA registration is more than just a regulatory formality—it’s your ticket into the competitive world of containerized freight. The process may seem meticulous, especially when it comes to insurance and provider agreements, but it is well worth the effort. As the logistics industry continues to prioritize intermodal solutions, becoming part of the UIIA network positions your company for long-term success.

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