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    Inland waterway transport in logistics: Transport by sea, river and canal

    Environmentally friendly, reliable and cost-efficient: Inland waterway transport is an integral part of logistics. We ensure your freight reaches its destination on time through Europe’s waterways.

    Inland waterway logistics
    Advantages
    Europe’s largest fleet
    Gallery of ship types
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    FAQ
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    Inland waterways logistics: Goods at a glance

    With our expertise and experience, we ensure your freight is transported properly and efficiently. We meet the required European standards for transporting waste products such as waste wood, glass, contaminated soil and industrial slag. Logistics services for bulk goods and general cargo complete our portfolio, allowing us to provide a tailor-made solution for your cargo.

    In addition to transporting goods on inland waterways, our fleet also takes on other important tasks. Seven bilge de-oiling boats are responsible for the removal of waste containing oil and grease from ship operations. One of their main duties is collecting and properly disposing of bilge water.

    Our seven bunker boats, operating on all European waterways, supply goods and passenger ships with lubricants and fresh water.

    Close-up view of stainless steel ventilation or exhaust pipes lined up in a row on a rooftop against a bright sky.

    Advantages for you

    Inland waterway vessels offer a lot of cargo capacity. For example, it is estimated that a river barge can carry between 40 to 60 times the load of a truck.

    Because of their large transport volume, inland waterways provide a cost-effective way to transport goods.

    Compared to other modes of transportation, inland waterway transport is more climate friendly and helps reduce congestion on road networks.

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    Europe’s largest fleet – Rhenus ships in operation

    • Our extensive network enables us to transport your products across borders throughout Europe.
    • Our large fleet offers you a high degree of delivery reliability. With around 1,000 ship units in daily use, we operate the biggest inland waterway fleet in Europe.
    • Thanks to just-in-time delivery, your freight reaches the right place at the right time. Inland waterway transport is the most reliable and predictable logistics option, making it ideal for your just-in-time projects.
    • With more than 200 years of experience, we have the solution for your logistics needs and ensure that your logistics operations run smoothly.
    A cargo vessel on a river, carrying stacked colorful shipping containers, with a cityscape
    Container transport by barge

    Inland waterway vessels offer an efficient and eco-friendly way to transport containers across Europe’s extensive river network.

    A yellow environmental service boat moving across still waters under a blue sky
    Bilge oil separator

    This specialized vessel is responsible for safely disposing of waste oil, solid waste and oil-water mixtures.

    A long cargo barge transporting various types of goods along a river
    Push units

    Push units enable the transport of large quantities of goods using push boats and push barges.

    A tugboat navigating through a river, flying multiple flags, with an industrial background
    Bunker boat

    Our bunker boats, like the Rheintank 2, supply inland vessels with fuel and fresh drinking water.

    A white passenger boat cruising along a river, with a scenic view
    Touring boat

    Touring boats are also part of the Rhenus fleet.

    Friendly call center agent who is talking to a customer

    Looking for a partner for inland waterways logistics?

    With our experience and expertise, we’ll find a tailor-made solution for you. Our experts are happy to assist whenever you need support.

    Frequently asked questions

    Inland waterway transport refers to shipping on rivers and canals. This form of logistics covers the movement of various goods along these inland routes.

    Compared to other modes of transportation, inland waterway shipping is more environmentally friendly due to its high transport capacity and comparatively low energy consumption. The combination of high payloads and low manpower requirements also makes inland waterway shipping a cost-effective mode of transport. It also helps ease congestion on rail and road networks.

    The duration of the transport depends largely on the distance that needs to be covered.

    There are nearly no limits to inland waterway logistics: From bulk goods to general cargo, virtually any type of cargo can be transported.