Coastal & Great Lakes Freight Transportation

Coastal & Great Lakes Freight Transportation

Brief Excerpt from Industry Overview Chapter:

Companies in this industry transport cargo in US coastal waters, on the Great Lakes System, or between ports of the US mainland, Puerto Rico, and US island possessions. Major companies include American Steamship Company, Kirby Corporation, Matson, and Rand Logistics.

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

Demand is driven primarily by demand from manufacturers for commodities such as coal, crude oil, grain, iron ore, refined petroleum products, and scrap metal. The profitability of individual companies depends on efficient operations and a good safety record. Large companies have advantages in handling a broad range of cargo and diversifying freight and logistics operations. Small companies can compete effectively by transporting unusual cargo and offering excellent customer service. The US industry is highly concentrated: the 50 largest companies account for about 90% of industry revenue.

PRODUCTS, OPERATIONS & TECHNOLOGY

Major services include the transportation of bulk liquids and gases as well as dry bulks, which account for about 30% of the industry's revenue each. Other include related water transportation services for about 50%. Companies that offer coastal & great lakes freight transportation also offer transportation of climate-controlled intermodal containers, towing services by water, transportation of automobiles and light trucks, and navigational services.