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    Inland waterway transportation: shipping across rivers and canals

    Environmentally friendly, dependable and cost-efficient: inland waterway shipping is now a firmly established component of logistics for good reason. We transport your goods punctually to their destination through an international network of waterways.

    Inland waterway logistics
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    Overview of inland waterway transport: goods at a glance

    Drawing on our know-how and extensive experience, we make sure the correct handling and movement of your cargo are in place. Our offering is rounded out by logistics services for different types of bulk goods or general cargo. As a result, we can deliver customized solutions suited to your shipment.

    Beyond moving cargo on inland waterways, the fleet also handles additional responsibilities. Seven bilge de-oiling boats manage the removal of waste containing oil and grease generated during ship operations. A key duty involves collecting bilge water and ensuring its proper disposal in line with regulations.

    Our seven bunker boats handle the provision of supplies such as lubricants and fresh water to cargo and passenger ships.

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

    Your benefits

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

    Due to their high carrying capacity, inland waterway transportation provides a cost-effective option for moving goods. 

    In comparison with other transport options, inland waterway shipping is not only more climate friendly, but also offers additional benefits, such as reducing congestion on the road networks.

    Extensive fleet capacity

    • Reliable capacity across North America – A broad and diverse fleet maintains steady performance, keeping your deliveries consistent and on time.
    • Just-in-time performance – Your freight is delivered exactly where and when required, helping maintain smooth production and efficient distribution operations.
    • Predictable and sustainable transport – Transport high-volume, time-critical cargo using a more optimized logistics solution.
    • Centuries of proven expertise – With over 200 years of experience in global logistics, every tailored, cost-efficient inland solution is backed by deep industry knowledge.
    A cargo vessel on a river, carrying stacked colorful shipping containers, with a cityscape
    Barge-based container transport

    Containers are moved efficiently and in an environmentally friendly way on inland waterway vessels.

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

    This specialized vessel handles the disposal 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 make it possible to move large volumes of cargo using a push boat and push barge.

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

    Our bunker boats, such as the Rheintank 2, provide inland ships with fuel and drinking water.

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

    Touring vessels are also included within the Rhenus fleet.

    Friendly call center agent who is talking to a customer

    Searching for a partner inland waterways logistics?

    With our know-how and extensive expertise, we identify a solution tailored to your needs. Our specialists are ready to support you!

    Frequently asked questions

    Inland waterway transportation describes the movement of goods along inland waterways – including rivers and canals. Accordingly, inland waterway logistics covers the shipment of a wide range of cargo via these routes.

    Compared with other transport options, inland waterway shipping is more environmentally friendly due to its high carrying capacity and relatively low energy use. The mix of large load volumes and minimal staffing needs also makes inland waterway shipping a cost-effective mode of transport. It also helps ease congestion across road and rail networks.

    The duration of the transport is primarily determined by the distance that needs to be covered. 

    There are hardly any restrictions in inland waterway logistics – ranging from bulk goods to general cargo, as well as waste, nearly every kind of freight can be transported.