Get to know the vital terms of Logistics and Supply Chain Management.
In logistics, a lighter is actually a small vessel or barge used in the transportation of cargo between a large ship and the shore, particularly in areas where there are no Deepwater ports or direct docking facilities. Lighters play a vital role within the transportation system as an intermediary for loading and unloading larger vessels that cannot dock due to depth restrictions in ports or other port limitations. They bridge the gap between large ships and shore, ensuring that cargo is moved very smoothly, especially in remote or shallow port regions.
Increased flexibility: The use of lighters increases flexibility in the supply chain by establishing cargo movement in areas that lack port facilities.
They are cheaper than dredging and augmentation projects. They help lessen the time needed by larger vessels at sea due to their buoyancy assistance, which enables faster turnaround times and quicker delivery without congestion.
Lighters constitute an essential asset in logistics and may be used as an alternative for cargo movement that is not only flexible but also less costly in areas where port facilities are very limited. They allow for easy transfer, thus streamlining supply chains, optimizing resources, and improving service reach to challenging or restricted regions.