Bangladesh has a dense network of rivers and coastal routes that are critical for moving cargo efficiently. JAR Group’s Coastal & River Services are designed to use these waterways to reduce congestion, cost and transit time.

We work with shippers, importers, exporters, industries and logistics partners who need reliable lighterage, barge and inland water transportation between seaport anchorages, river terminals and inland industrial zones.

What We Deliver

• Safe and efficient transfer of cargo between sea-going vessels and river/shore facilities.
• Optimised use of coastal and river routes to avoid road congestion.
• Cost-effective solutions for bulk, break-bulk, containers and project cargo.
• Coordinated operations with port agents, terminals and trucking partners.

Lighterage & Barge Operations

We arrange lighterage and barge operations from mother vessels at anchorage to river and coastal jetties. This is essential where deep-draft vessels cannot berth alongside the quay.

• Lighterage from seaport anchorages to designated river terminals.
• Barge transport from port to nearby industrial hubs and depots.
• Flexible scheduling based on tide, draft and port operational windows.

Inland Container Movement by River

Inland water routes are increasingly used for container transport. JAR Group supports inland container barge services connecting ports, container yards and river depots.

• Movement of laden and empty containers between river terminals.
• Coordination with ICDs/CFSs, depots and trucking partners.
• Options for regular shuttle services on selected routes.

Bulk & Break-Bulk Cargo via Rivers

Rivers are ideal for moving large volumes of bulk cargo like clinker, coal, aggregates, grains and industrial raw materials.

• Planning and coordination of bulk moves through river routes.
• Support for loading, discharge and onward distribution.
• Options to combine river and coastal segments for better economics.

Project & Heavy-Lift Cargo

For oversize or heavy project cargo, coastal and river routes often provide the most practical solution. We support end-to-end planning with project cargo teams.

• Route study and feasibility for river/coastal legs.
• Coordination with cranes, jetties and terminal operators.
• Integration with road/land legs where needed.

Operational Planning

Coastal and river operations depend on tides, draft, river conditions and port schedules. Our operations team focuses on practical planning to minimise waiting time and risk.

• Pre-planning of movements based on tide/water levels.
• Coordination with port authorities and terminal operators.
• Continuous communication with barges, tugs and jetty points.

Documentation & Coordination

• Support with port, customs and terminal documentation where needed.
• Issuance and checking of relevant cargo documents and instructions.
• Close coordination with ship agents and shippers/receivers.

Safety & Environmental Responsibility

Inland water and coastal activities are carried out with attention to safety and environmental impact.

• Safe loading and discharge practices in line with local rules and good seamanship.
• Focus on minimising spills, cargo losses and operational incidents.
• Responsible coordination in environmentally sensitive river zones.

For other marine and port services, see: JARINFO Port Agency Services

Typical Routes

We support operations involving key seaports, river ports and industrial areas in Bangladesh. Actual routes depend on the cargo, season and project.

• Seaport anchorages to nearby river terminals and private jetties.
• River-to-river and river-to-coastal movements for bulk cargo.
• Movements between container terminals and inland river depots.

Industries We Support

• Cement, clinker and construction materials.
• Power and energy sector imports (where appropriate).
• Agro, food and fertilizer commodities.
• Manufacturing and industrial raw materials.
• Containerised cargo for import/export supply chains.