Bulk Cargo

OpenTug is dedicated to helping Shippers, Freight Forwarders, and 3PLs manage bulk shipments across US waterways. Our digital platform has eliminated the traditional challenges of coordinating transportation for bulk goods.

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For shippers and Freight forwarders

What Is Bulk Cargo?

Bulk cargo is used for a term used for items that are loose and unpackaged. Bulk cargo transportation is usually more cost-effective compared to transporting packaged goods because it avoids the need for individual packaging and handling.

Grain Shipping

Grain, a fundamental agricultural bulk commodity, finds its efficient route to market through barge shipping, a mode of transportation that caters to its unique characteristics. Barge shipping offers a smart solution for bulk transport, allowing substantial quantities of grain to move in a single haul.

Oil & Gas Shipping

Oil and gas, as vital energy resources, are major bulk commodities frequently transported via barge shipping, ensuring efficient supply to global markets. Barge shipping proves advantageous due to its capacity to handle large volumes of liquid cargo in a single journey, contributing to economies of scale and cost-effectiveness.

Coal Shipping

Coal, a prominent bulk commodity, stands as a cornerstone of energy production and industrial activities. At OpenTug, we specialize in optimizing barge shipping for coal, ensuring reliable, cost-efficient, and environmentally responsible transportation of this essential bulk commodity.

Why Choose OpenTug for Your Bulk Needs? 

At OpenTug, we're continually innovating to making booking easier for our users.

Efficiency

Shippers on average save hours of time by submitting specified shipment requests through the OpenTug Marketplace. Eligible operators respond with quotes for shippers to compare, select, and track in the OpenTug application.

Transparency

Track lock statuses and vessel queues with OpenTug. Our solution offers a single solution from request to delivery with in-app chat available through the entire process.

Simplicity

It has never been easier to coordinate booking processes and connect with barge and terminal operators. Simplify transloads, sailings, and more with the first North American digital platform for Project Cargo.

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What our clients say

"OpenTug is a need for us and the entire market. Customers are demanding more visibility and easier access to services, which OpenTug enables."

“OpenTug has allowed Island Freight Line to quickly put a short-sea concept into service, and give businesses and shippers an alternative method for transportation to the island of Nantucket.”

"We were really impressed with the level of detail and the quick responses. We've worked with other freight logistics brokers in the past and it's been a nightmare but with OpenTug, it was just a great experience the whole way through."

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