lighterage

/ˈlaɪtərɪdʒ/
noun
  1. The transport of goods by a lighter (a flat-bottomed barge), especially between a ship and the shore.
    • The port charges a fee for lighterage when goods are moved from the ship to the dock by barge.
    • The company specializes in lighterage services for cargo ships anchored offshore.
    • Lighterage was essential in the days before deep-water ports could accommodate large vessels.
  2. The fee paid for such transport.
    • Lighterage can add significantly to the total shipping expenses.
    • They negotiated a lower lighterage rate with the barge operator.
    • The invoice included a separate line for lighterage costs.
What does "lighterage" mean? | whatsthatwordmean | whatsthatwordmean