Inland navigation as a mode of transportation is an integral part of the logistics chain.  As an environmentally friendly form of transport for goods, inland navigation is significantly less costly in terms of external costs (incidents, noise, traffic congestion, emissions, etc.) than road and rail transport.

In addition, inland navigation is an extremely reliable mode of transportation, which is further enhanced by the track and trace systems that allow vessels and cargo to be monitored continuously. Economics of scale also make inland navigation a more affordable option for the transport of goods, as inland navigation vessels are able to carry much larger cargo loads in one single shipment when compared to road transport.

Inland navigation is also a very safe mode of transportation with few accidents, which further increases the overall appeal of this form of transport.

Moreover, the use of inland waterways is in line with the Flemish Government’s policy on transport and mobility. The Flemish Government recently approved a resolution in favour of providing adequate support for inland navigation in Flanders.

Finally, inland navigation is a modern form of transport that provides many opportunities for the future. Several initiatives and innovative solutions are being developed to make the transportation of pallet loads via inland waterways a reality.