Collaborative Inland Logistics - The Key To Supercharging Transportation

Inland marine logistics is key to expanding the US freight capacity sustainably, as it offers an efficient, cost-effective, and sustainable way of transporting goods. This comes into focus during a time of supply-chain uncertainty and a big push to reduce the logistics industries environmental impact. In fact, the National Waterways Foundation found that when using when barges, 15.6 tons of CO2 are emitted, while railroads emit 30 percent (21.2 tons) and trucks emit a whopping 1,000 percent (154.2) more than barges.

However, leveraging this mode of transport is difficult today, and the industry will need to collaborate to help grow as a whole while supporting a sustainable transition. By sharing information, companies can work together to capture more cargo using a connected shipping experience. In addition, cooperation leads to improved customer service, as more information reduces friction during the shipping process.

The coastal and inland waterways provide a streamlined way to ship goods 95% cleaner and significantly cheaper to over 55% of the US population through its 12,000 miles of waterways. Unfortunately, Inland marine shipping has yet to experience the same digital revolution other modes have, making it hard to integrate into the TMS platforms that almost 98% of large businesses use today.

However, that's now changing - recent investments in inland marine technology are bringing digital innovation to connecting US waterways to the world. Companies can quickly evaluate how barge transportation can revolutionize their supply chain and easily connect it to their systems to move more goods through the waterways.

Online platforms like OpenTug provide a platform to enable barges, terminals, and vessels to digitize their services and give shippers one platform to search, book and communicate. Connectivity through a digital ecosystem provides the industry with an easy way to market and drive more awareness.

Furthermore, communication in the inland marine logistics industry can lead to increased revenue, as companies can combine forces to increase their customer base and market share. With increased connectivity, companies can also expand their services and reach new markets. This increased reach can lead to increased revenue, as companies can access new customers and offer more services.  

Increased innovation is usually a byproduct of collaboration as different companies can bring new ideas and perspectives to the table. This can lead to new processes and services being created, helping whole industries stay ahead of the curb.

Connection in the inland marine logistics industry is key to its growth, and OpenTug is helping expedite the US marine industry's shift to collaborative logistics.

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