Barge

A barge is a flat-bottomed vessel without self-propulsion, typically used for short-distance transport of goods in inland rivers, canals, or ports, and must be towed or pushed by a tugboat. In foreign trade, barges are often used in shallow-water ports or congested docks where large vessels cannot berth, to transfer cargo from large vessels to shore warehouses or vice versa. Use cases include: bulk cargo (such as coal, ore, grain), containers, heavy-lift equipment, etc. Precautions: Barge transport adds loading/unloading and transshipment steps, which may incur additional costs (barge fees, tug fees) and time delays; cargo is prone to damage and water damage during lighterage, requiring enhanced lashing and covering; liability allocation must be clear, usually the carrier's responsibility, but must be specified in the bill of lading or contract. Unlike a 'feeder vessel', a barge has no power, relies on tugs, and is mostly used on inland rivers; it is often interchangeable with 'lighter', but 'lighter' emphasizes the lightening function. In foreign trade documents, the barge name, tug information, and transshipment terms should be accurately stated.