Waterways reduce transportation costs in the U.S. by carrying large quantities of goods at a lower cost.

Waterways play a key role in reducing transportation costs in the U.S. by enabling the movement of bulk goods like coal, grain, oil, and chemicals in large volumes. Barges, which are widely used in inland waterway transport, offer a cost-efficient method of shipping because they can carry substantial amounts of cargo over long distances with less fuel and fewer resources compared to trucks or trains. This reduced cost per ton makes waterways an essential component of the U.S. freight system, helping industries save on logistics, boosting trade, and supporting economic growth.