TRANSOCEAN TUG-BARGE SYSTEMS

The Tug-Barge Study explored the economic potential of transocean systems with separable power units (tugs and barges) in direct competition with self-propelled ships. Also studied were the technological and institutional problems that have to be solved before the inherent advantages of tug-barge systems can be realized. The main conclusions of the study are: 1) Tugs pushing barges are cost competitive with ships in container, bulk, and especially break-bulk services, 2) The total capital required for tug-barge systems can be as low as 40% of the capital required for a comparable ship system, and 3) If the state-of-the-art can be expanded to improve linkage technology and tug-barge speeds, flotillas with as many as six barges can effectively reduce transportation costs.

• Corporate Authors:

  Matson Research Corporation

  San Francisco, CA  United States 

  Maritime Administration

  1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE
  Washington, DC  United States  20590
• Authors:
  • Koeningsberg
  • Lathrop
  • Glosten, L R
  • Bringlowe
• Publication Date: 1970-7

Media Info

• Serial:
  • Volume: 1-3

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Capital investments; Cost control; Tug ship interaction
• Uncontrolled Terms: Cost reduction
• Old TRIS Terms: Tug barge systems
• Subject Areas: Administration and Management; Marine Transportation; Vehicles and Equipment;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00007452
• Record Type: Publication
• Source Agency: Maritime Administration
• Report/Paper Numbers: 368-110
• Contract Numbers: MA-4550
• Files: TRIS, USDOT
• Created Date: Dec 22 1973 12:00AM