How Barge Transload Can Save You Money on Large Loads

April 5, 2023

Barge transload is a cost-effective and efficient transportation option for businesses transporting large cargo volumes. It offers a unique advantage in its ability to transport around 1,500 tons per barge in a single shipment, making it a highly efficient option with a significantly lower carbon footprint than trucking.

Transloading to and from a barge is done through various means, including cranes and conveyor systems, which make for a speedy transition to and from rail cars and truckload fleets. Barge transload is a part of the transportation equation, allowing for the extension of the viability of transloading cargo. 

Businesses looking to transport large volumes of cargo are increasingly turning to barge transload. It provides a compelling opportunity for businesses to streamline their logistics and optimize transportation costs by maximizing load capacity, reducing costs, and enhancing sustainability.

What Is Barge Transload?

Barge transload is a form of transloading cargo that involves transferring cargo between a barge and another mode of transportation, such as a rail car or truck. 

Using barge transload reduces costs associated with long-distance and heavy freight shipments and allows companies to benefit from lower transportation expenses. 

One 15-barge tow can carry the equivalent of 216 rail cars or 1,050 trucks, making barge transportation a highly efficient option for businesses looking to transport large cargo volumes.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, barge transportation is also highly sustainable, with barges producing up to 10 times fewer emissions per ton-mile than trucks.

Why Barge Transload Is Cost-Effective

Barges can carry larger and heavier loads than semi-truck shipping, which means barge transloading is often more cost-effective for large shipments. 

Barge transload is also more efficient than truck transportation due to the barge’s higher capacity, allowing businesses to transport large loads at once and reducing the number of trips required.

Barges also require less fuel than other modes of transportation. America's inland waterways provide a direct connection between 28 states, offering an incredibly cost-effective method of transporting freight while utilizing far less fuel than other transportation modes.

Bottom Line

Barge transload is a cost-effective and eco-friendly way to move large loads over long distances. Not only does barge transload reduce transportation expenses, but it also reduces emissions and traffic congestion. 

Businesses can benefit significantly from barge transloading to save money and help the environment at the same time. Barge transportation is a smart choice for businesses looking to achieve their sustainability goals while moving goods efficiently and effectively.

Explore the benefits of barge transload with OpenTug. Check our services and get real-time access to inland maritime freight capacity and schedules.

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