Semi trucks are ubiquitous. Freight trains are common. But for most Missourians, barge sightings are rare. While we may not always see them, barges are an important part of the nation’s inland transportation system. If current trends continue, Missouri can expect more barge traffic in the future.

When commodities are loaded on barges in Missouri, they travel the inland waterway system to reach their destinations—including 17 states in 2013. The items going to Louisiana (mostly coal and grain) are largely exported overseas.