Barges. They’re a staple in the world of logistics. Unless you work with them on a regular basis, you may not realize all the benefits of barge transportation, but there are quite a few. From economical to environmental and everything in between, the following information provides some insight as to why these flat-bottomed, freight-carrying water vehicles are so beneficial.
They provide necessary resources.
Barges can move a variety of products throughout the US and the world. They are responsible for moving more than 60% of US grain exports, which helps our country economically. At the same time, barges move materials such as coal and other fuels throughout the US, and these materials are used to power and heat our homes and businesses.
They boost the economy.
Besides being a major element in our grain export, barges help to boost the economy. The barge, tugboat, and towboat industry contributes over $5 billion a year to the US economy. It also contributes more than 33,000 jobs and $2.4 million in state and federal payroll taxes each year.
They relieve traffic congestion.
With more than 300 million people in the US, roadways can become extremely congested. Barges help relieve some of this congestion by taking what would otherwise travel by truck and place it on the water. Since one 15-barge tow can move the equivalent of 1,050 semi-trailer trucks, that’s a lot of traffic that’s being taken off the roadways to improve congestion.
They help the environment.
Barge transportation causes far less air pollution than trucking and rail, and it also consumes less energy per ton-mile of freight carried. This improves our environment. Additionally, barges don’t have much of an impact on our land. Since they use natural waterways and only rely on terminals and a few connections, they barely take up any land space. This allows land to be used for other purposes, such as urban development or natural plant and animal habitats.
They are safer.
Barges are safer than rail and truck in multiple ways. Since they’re larger and can hold more, the chance of spill is less likely to occur. In addition, a lot of regulations are placed on barge transportation to ensure it’s safe. Because of these regulations, the barge industry sees fewer accidents than any other method of transportation in the US.
Using barges for your logistics needs is a smart decision. Barging offers a variety of benefits to the US, including economical and environmental. If you’re interested in barge transportation for your next bulk cargo haul, contact one of our specialists today.
