Industries in the Water Transportation subsector provide water transportation of passengers and cargo using water craft, such as ships, barges, and boats.
The subsector is composed of two industry groups: (1) one for deep sea, coastal, and Great Lakes; and (2) one for inland water transportation. This split typically reflects the difference in equipment used.
Scenic and sightseeing water transportation services are not included in this subsector but are included in Subsector 487, Scenic and Sightseeing Transportation. Although these activities use water craft, they are different from the activities included in water transportation. Water sightseeing does not usually involve place-to-place transportation; the passenger's trip starts and ends at the same location.
The water transportation industry, classified under NAICS 483, is witnessing several notable qualitative trends. Increasing globalization and international trade continue to drive demand for cargo shipping. However, industry stakeholders are grappling with stringent environmental regulations pushing toward sustainable practices. There's a pivot towards green shipping technologies, including the adoption of cleaner fuels and energy-efficient vessels, driven by regulatory bodies and the broader push for sustainability.
Moreover, digital transformation is revolutionizing the industry with advancements in automation, IoT, and AI-enhanced logistics management systems, improving operational efficiency and reducing costs. Maritime cybersecurity has also become a focal point as digital reliance grows, necessitating robust security frameworks to protect critical infrastructure.
In the near future, the sector is expected to see growth in the adoption of autonomous shipping technologies with ongoing trials of unmanned vessels. Trade patterns are predicted to shift, influenced by geopolitical factors and evolving global supply chains. Investment in port infrastructure and intermodal connectivity is set to increase, enhancing the flow of goods and supporting economic growth.
A review and comparison of financial performance of privately-help companies in specified SIC/NAICS industry segment, using industry standard benchmarks.
Answers come easily with iCFO. Review ROI, sales per employee, profit margins of the top 10%, top 25% and more, to identify areas of concern and opportunity. Examine what if scenarios and P&L impact of reducing costs or adding revenue.
It takes only five minutes to enter your data and produce a concise profile of your company’s fiscal state, including critical business ratios focusing on liquidity, profitability, asset efficiency, and growth.