ACBL’s Dry Cargo division transports the bulk commodities that drive the American economy—from the grains that feed the world to the steel, cement, and construction aggregates that build infrastructure and coal that powers industry. Our vessels move safely and efficiently along 7,200 miles of inland waterways, connecting U.S. farms, factories, and ports to global markets.
- Grain
- Corn
- Soybeans
- Rice
- Sugar
- Energy
- Building materials
- Industrial
- Fertilizer
- Steel
- Cement
- Construction aggregates
- Metals
- Salt
- Exports such as grain and coal move south to the Gulf, where barges unload at elevators or midstream and transfer to oceangoing vessels.
- After cleaning and reloading, those same barges carry raw materials and finished goods north to industries across the heartland.
- Covered Hopper Barges
- Enclosed transport for grain, fertilizer, steel, and any products that need protection from weather
- Open Hopper Barges
- Ideal for open air bulk products like coal, sand, and gravel
ACBL manages the safe and efficient transport of liquid commodities, including chemicals, petroleum products, and agricultural liquids, across inland waterways. With specialized barges, rigorous safety standards, and highly trained crews, operations prioritize environmental responsibility and reliability while ensuring these essential materials move smoothly through vital U.S. supply chains.
- Chemicals
- Petroleum Products
- Agricultural Liquids
When supply chains are tested, ACBL adapts and delivers – keeping cargo moving through every challenge. Our integrated network of fleets and terminals allow us to respond quickly to changing conditions while maintaining safety, efficiency, and reliability. With assets positioned along key inland waterways, we provide the flexibility and capacity customers need when pressure is high.
- Affreightment
- Dedicated Barges
- Terminals
- Industrial Development
ACBL offers a range of towing services to meet diverse shipping needs. Whether moving barges directly, combining shipments for flexibility, or providing customized contract towing, we ensure cargo is transported safely and efficiently. Our services are designed to keep operations reliable and adaptable across the inland waterways.
- Unit-Tow
- Contract Towing
- Spot Tramp Towing
Behind every barge is a team focused on doing things the right way. Our crews and maintenance teams work together to manage inspections, maintenance, and repairs with precision and accountability, protecting our assets, our people, and our customers’ cargo.
- Barge Management
- Dry Dock
Benefits of shipping with ACBL
Delivering greater value on the water.
Big capacity, with high attention to detail-esque content
We combine one of the largest fleets on the rivers with the personalized service of a true partner.
High-touch when you want it, high-tech when you need it
Our digital tools keep you informed, while our people keep you supported – 24/7, every river mile.
Safety is our standard
Safety isn’t just a priority at ACBL – it’s the standard by which we measure every journey.
Leaner. Greener. Smarter.
Moving with ACBL means lower costs, lower emissions, and a smarter way to move cargo.
One of the newest fleets on America’s rivers
With one of the youngest fleets on the water, ACBL delivers reliability, efficiency, and performance.
Peace of mind with every shipment
Every cargo we move comes with peace of mind – backed by our proven safety and service record.
Aligning with your goals
We succeed when you succeed – so we do what’s right for our clients, always.
The cargo destinations we reach
