What to Consider When Buying a Used Sectional Barge

If you’ve decided to buy a sectional barge used, you may be wondering how exactly you can assess the potential value of the wide array of barge options out there to find the best one for your needs. Luckily, sectional barges are built to last, and buying used can often be a much more wallet-friendly and ultimately smart choice than buying a brand-new barge. In most cases, you probably won’t be going wrong if you do your due diligence and make sure there aren’t any red flags you ignore about a barge’s quality. To help you out, below are some things we think you should consider if you’re on the market for a used sectional or modular barge:

Overall condition:

Inspect for rust and corrosion, dents, and bent areas that may indicate the barge is too weatherworn to purchase. A little rust is to be expected if the barge isn’t new, but an excessive amount of rust can be a bad sign. You should also assess the quality of any of its parts and accessories.

If it needs to be blasted:

If you notice marine growth, barnacles, antifoul build-up, etc. on the underwater hull surface of a sectional barge, it means you will likely have to invest in blasting the barge or using other means to remove damaging substances. This, of course, can be an extra cost and can also be time-consuming. A barge that doesn’t need to be blasted may be a better investment.

Age:

If cared for well, sectional barges can remain in use for decades, but age is definitely something to consider. If you can find a newer barge that’s in better condition for a comparable price, it may not be in your best interest to invest in an older one, even if it costs you a little less. Generally, older sectional barges won’t last as long on the water as newer ones.

Where it was used:

Has it been used in fresh water, saltwater, or both? If it has been used in saltwater, it will likely have a shorter life expectancy than a sectional barge used exclusively in fresh water. Additionally, it will need to be extensively rinsed out before you use it in fresh water if it’s recently been used in saltwater. These are definitely things to consider. If it’s only been used in fresh water, there are less concerns, but make sure the particular barge model is suited to be used in saltwater if this is the case and you plan to take it out into the ocean.

Connection types:

Be sure to take a look at our blog post about some of the differences between Flexifloat and Poseidon barges. The biggest difference between them is their connection types. Flexifloat barges have a self-contained locking system while Poseidon barges, and many other sectional barges on the market from other manufacturers, have a locking system that uses loose parts. A benefit of Poseidon barges is that they are compatible with some other brands of sectional barges, while Flexifloat sections or modules can only be used with other Flexifloat sections or modules. Consider whether it’s important for you to be able to mix and match modules from various brands or whether you don’t mind if they must all be the same brand.

Extras:

If you’re buying used, you may have some extras thrown in that can increase the value and versatility of the barge. If a sectional barge comes with a spud system, elevating system, or winch system, this can be a major plus and enhance what you’re able to accomplish with the barge. Even small extras like safety railing can be nice touches and make possible used barges more attractive options. Extras can definitely make a purchase more worthwhile, so don’t overlook them.

To learn more about all types of barges, check out our blog post titled "Barge Type Reference Guide".

BUY AND SELL WITH EIFFEL TRADING

Eiffel Trading’s online marketplace hosts a wide variety of used barges, including used sectional barges, used deck barges, used spud barges, and much more. In addition, our heavy civil material inventory ranges from used sheet pile, to used HDPE pipe, and everything in between.

All of our listings are constantly being updated, but if you don’t see what you’re looking for, create a wanted listing for free.

Ready to sell your used heavy equipment or construction material? List your products today for free on Eiffel Trading’s online marketplace.

If you have any questions or would like additional information, please call us at 1-800-541-7998 or email sales@eiffeltrading.com.