Deck Barge Price & Market Brief Analysis
From 2024 to 2025, driven by global infrastructure demand, China’s deck barge market continued to grow. Among them, the 5,000 DWT aft-steered deck barge with ramp has become the "golden vessel type" in engineering logistics due to its efficient design: an aft wheelhouse freeing up deck space and self-contained ramp for ro-ro operations. It is currently the most liquid and high-profile asset in the market.
Newbuilding Price
The current price range for a new 5,000 DWT unit is approximately RMB 28–41 million, varying by shipyard and configuration. For example, an order placed in May 2025 with a major shipbuilding group priced four 5,000 DWT deck barges at RMB 41 million per vessel. Standard newbuilds are generally quoted at RMB 28–35 million.
Secondhand Market Price
Prices show a clear age-based tiering:
Under 5 years (near-new): RMB 15–24 million. A 2020-built 5,000 DWT barge recently traded at RMB 14.2–14.5 million.
5–10 years (best value): RMB 11–16 million. 2015–2016 built units sold around RMB 12 million.
Over 10 years (old): RMB 5.8–8.5 million, mostly for demolition or low-cost inland water transport.
Daily charter rates reach RMB 21,000–27,000. Secondhand acquisition costs are roughly half that of newbuilds, supporting a shorter payback period.
Supply & Demand
Secondhand supply is abundant, with 43% being 5,000 DWT units, mostly featuring aft wheelhouse and ramp. Demand is supported by domestic wind power, bridge projects, and overseas infrastructure in Southeast Asia and the Middle East. Southeast Asian buyers strongly prefer 5–10 year-old cost-effective vessels for quick deployment.
Market Trend
The market is in an active phase of rising volume and price. Deck barges, as "water capillaries," are increasingly essential under China’s "Road-to-Water Transport" policy and green logistics trends. The 5,000 DWT aft-steered ramp barge offers strong versatility and retention value, ideal for balancing operating income and asset safety. The market is also shifting toward 10,000+ DWT large units and specialized wind farm service barges, creating diversified growth.
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