Breakbulk for Barge Transport

Where inland barge transport meets oversized cargo demand

Breakbulk Americas is a vital event for professionals navigating project cargo and breakbulk logistics via inland waterways across the Americas. As the largest gathering of its kind in the region, it draws 5,600+ specialists from more than 61 countries. Barge operators, port authorities, shippers, EPCs, and freight forwarders come together to exchange insights, strengthen networks, and explore opportunities along critical river and canal routes. Whether you're transporting heavy-lift cargo through the Mississippi, the Amazon, or intercoastal systems, this is where the barge logistics community connects to drive complex projects forward.

 

The industry professionals you'll connect with

Curious about the connections waiting for you? Breakbulk Americas brings together freight forwarders, maritime transport specialists, terminal operators, road, rail and barge transport professionals — with 65% of attendees holding purchasing decision-making power. The right people, all in one place.

What's waiting for you at Breakbulk Americas?

Strategic Connections with EPCs & Project Leaders

Strategic Connections with EPCs & Project Leaders

Freight forwarders and carriers from around the world unite with EPCs, project owners, industrial manufacturers, and logistics specialists, all in one place. It’s your chance to connect with influential decision-makers from over 60 countries, uncover new commercial opportunities, and reinforce your position within the supply chain and logistics network. Find out more
Make Meaningful Connections with 5,600+ Industry Leaders

Make Meaningful Connections with 5,600+ Industry Leaders

Breakbulk Americas brings together thousands of professionals through a dynamic mix of networking experiences designed to spark real business opportunities. Whether it’s interactive workshops, the legendary After-Party at The Rustic, a friendly round of golf, or our popular BusinessRUN, there’s a way for everyone to connect. See what's on
Gain a Competitive Edge with Expert-Led Insights

Gain a Competitive Edge with Expert-Led Insights

Explore the newest developments in heavy-lift and oversized cargo, discover breakthrough innovations in maritime logistics, and stay updated on the issues shaping the sector. Curated alongside leading industry players, the Breakbulk Americas agenda delivers practical, forward-looking content to keep your business ahead of the curve. Explore content

Join us at Breakbulk Americas

Connect with leading names across the project cargo and breakbulk industry and explore new opportunities to grow your network, showcase your capabilities, and do business with global decision-makers.

Curated Sessions for Industry Insights

Wednesday 01 October 10:45 AM - 11:05 AM
KEYNOTE: A New Era of U.S. Maritime Strategy

The SHIPS for America Act marks a major shift in U.S. maritime policy, with ambitious long-term goals to revitalize shipbuilding, grow the Strategic Commercial Fleet, and strengthen the workforce. In the near term, stronger enforcement of Cargo Preference laws and increased policy momentum are already reshaping how government cargo is allocated and how U.S.-flag carriers engage commercially. Added to this, Section 301 tariffs are shifting cargo flows and sourcing decisions, creating both challenges and opportunities. This keynote explores the driving forces behind the Act and what they mean for U.S. industry and global partners.
 

Speaker
Wednesday 01 October 11:45 AM - 12:30 PM
Weathering the Storm: What’s Next for Breakbulk Carriers?

Carriers across the breakbulk and project cargo spectrum are facing intense operational pressure. From pending port fees, ageing vessels and capacity pressures, to complex emissions requirements, crew shortages and geopolitical trade tensions, fleet operators are forced to make faster, riskier, and more strategic decisions than ever. Senior voices from across the breakbulk fleet will confront the industry's most pressing challenges and explore how operators are adapting to survive and thrive.

Wednesday 01 October 12:45 PM - 1:30 PM
Mining Momentum: Project Cargo Opportunities in South & Central America’s Extractive Sector

As the global push for electrification and infrastructure growth accelerates, mining in South and Central America is becoming increasingly critical – and logistically complex. This panel brings together EPCs, shippers, and freight forwarders to explore how mining projects across the region are driving demand for breakbulk and project cargo solutions.

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Featured Content

Barges Eye Revival on US West Coast

Barges Eye Revival on US West Coast

Pilot Project Linking Ports of San Diego and Bellingham Slated for Start-up

Read article
Barnhart Boosts Footprint in American Southwest

Barnhart Boosts Footprint in American Southwest

US Firm Acquires Assets and Operations From Branches Belonging to Crane Service.

Read article
Rethinking Rail: A Green Alternative for Heavy Moves

Rethinking Rail: A Green Alternative for Heavy Moves

Rail Gains Traction as a Sustainable Project Cargo Solution.

Read article

Interested in exhibiting?

Put your brand in front of 5,600+ industry professionals and decision-makers from across the global project cargo and breakbulk supply chain. As an exhibitor, you'll have the opportunity to showcase your capabilities, generate high-quality leads, and build lasting partnerships with shippers, carriers, freight forwarders, ports, and more.

Join the Breakbulk Community

Breakbulk Global Shipper Network

Breakbulk Global Shipper Network

The Global Shipper Network is an exclusive network of senior breakbulk and project cargo owning shippers involved in the engineering, manufacturing and production of industrial projects and project cargo. Access exclusive learning and networking opportunities and join today! JOIN THE GLOBAL SHIPPER NETWORK
Global Event Partners

Global Event Partners

If you do business in more than one region in the world, your marketing program should reflect your coverage. The Global Event Partner program is designed to support your business goals through our three events in Dubai, Rotterdam and Houston. Become a Global Event Partner to maximise your reach to key decision-makers. BECOME A GLOBAL EVENT PARTNER
Women in Breakbulk

Women in Breakbulk

Become a member of the Women in Breakbulk networking group to stay in contact with other members all year round. Fill out the form and be sure to include your photo and advice to other women. All members receive free entry to the Women in Breakbulk Lounge at Breakbulk Americas and early access to tickets. JOIN THE COMMUNITY

Frequently Asked Questions

There are multiple ways to get involved—join as a visitor, exhibit to showcase your solutions, or consider sponsorship to gain maximum visibility. Learn more about exhibiting here.
Breakbulk Americas 2025 will take place on September 30 - October 02 2025, in Houston, Texas. The venue is George R. Brown Convention Centre, 1001 Avenida De Las Americas, Houston, TX 77010. 
Tuesday, September 30: 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Wednesday, October 01: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Thursday, October 02: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Breakbulk Americas attracts over 5,600 professionals from across the globe, enabling you to meet with companies large and small from all parts of the supply chain, including shippers. You’ll also meet the specialized transporters, project forwarders and other service providers that fulfill critical roles on project teams.
We have a number of networking events throughout the show, from workshops, to our after-party at The Rustic, and various outdoor activities. Take a look at what we have lined up here.
We offer a variety of advertising opportunities, including ads in Breakbulk Magazine (distributed at the event), BreakbulkONE (our monthly newsletter), and website banner ads. These options help expand your reach before, during, and after the event. See the Media Kit and talk to your sales representative.