Approximately 10% of freight in the U.S. is transported by waterways, including rivers, lakes, and coastal shipping routes.

Waterways play an important role in moving bulk commodities like coal, petroleum products, agricultural goods, and other heavy cargo. While this percentage is smaller compared to other modes of transportation like trucks and trains, waterways are still a cost-effective and efficient method for transporting large quantities of goods over long distances, particularly for industries like petrochemicals, agriculture, and construction. They help reduce congestion on highways and railroads and support U.S. global trade.