Low Cost:
Rivers are a natural highway which does not require any cost of construction and maintenance. Even the cost of construction and maintenance of canals is much less or they are used, not only for transport purposes but also for irrigation, etc. Moreover, the cost of operation of the inland water transport is very low. Thus, it is the cheapest mode of transport for carrying goods from one place to another.
2. Larger Capacity:
It can carry much larger quantities of heavy and bulky goods such as coal, and, timber etc.
3. Flexible Service:
It provides much more flexible service than railways and can be adjusted to individual requirements.
4. Safety:
The risks of accidents and breakdowns, in this form of transport, are minimum as compared to any other form of transport.