Dredging services have always played an important role in the development of our ports in the US. And in many ways, the container shipping industry would be immensely different if not for the help that dredging has played. Essentially, the dredging process involves the movement of sediments that are in or near the water and the ports. The goal of the dredging project involves making more space for the ocean vessels to navigate and be at the dock. Without dredging, there might be a lack of space at the port. This lack of space would mean there it would take longer and cost more money for the ships to load or unload at the port. Thus, dredging can help out in a big way.
Recently in the shipping industry, we have seen the world’s largest carriers develop new vessels that are larger in size. These larger ships can hold more cargo onboard. Because of the current supply and demand situation in the freight shipping industry, these types of larger vessels will be needed for scale. And these larger vessels might eventually lower expenses, which could result in lower ocean freight shipping rates. The ports must be dredged properly and maintained in order for these ports to properly service these larger vessels. Thus, more dredging projects must commence. Freight forwarders support this. With the US Water Resources Development Act, the US Government pays for 90% of dredging expenses. Thus, the ports can afford to do the dredging to make more room.
