Boatage, a term coined by blending the words "boat" and "towage," refers to the charges or fees incurred for the transportation or towing of goods by boat or watercraft. It specifically encompasses the costs associated with the services provided by boat owners or operators for the conveyance of cargo on inland waterways, rivers, canals, or any other navigable bodies of water.
The concept of boatage involves the negotiation and agreement between cargo owners and boat operators concerning the freight charges for the shipment of goods via water transportation. These charges may vary depending on factors such as the weight, volume, type of cargo, distance to be covered, and specific terms of the transportation agreement. Boatage rates may also take into account additional costs such as loading and unloading, storage, customs duties, or any other supplementary services provided.
Boatage plays a vital role in facilitating trade and commerce by enabling the transportation of goods over bodies of water, connecting different regions and facilitating economic exchange. It allows for the movement of bulky or large quantities of goods that are impractical or economically unfeasible to transport by land or air. Furthermore, boatage can be a more environmentally friendly alternative to other forms of transportation, as it reduces the carbon footprint associated with long-haul cargo shipping.
In summary, boatage refers to the charges or fees incurred for the transportation of goods via watercraft and encompasses the various costs associated with the services provided by boat owners or operators for the conveyance of cargo on navigable waterways.
