Coal distribution is a vital component of the US infrastructure. Coal distributors move coal by rail, barge and truck. Most coal is shipped to electrical power plants. Some coal is shipped overseas to other countries for steel-making purposes. In the US, a small amount of coal is used by the steel industry.

Coal delivery is used worldwide. Distribution of coal is a necessity and for that reason transporting coal is a big industry. Coal distribution methods break down into 58% by rail, 17% by water and 10% by trucks. The remaining 15% represents a combination of rail, water and truck, or it is moved by conveyor. The US exports 7% to 8% of its coal.

1. Coal distribution is necessary for making electricity and steel. In the US, coal is shipped from supply regions to demand regions.

2. Coal shipping is done by trucks, barges and rail. Contracts for transportation are made between coal suppliers and coal movers.

3. Coal movers are located throughout the world. The US ships a small percentage of its coal overseas but it is nevertheless an important export.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find a railroad coal transporter

Electricity in the US depends on coal; 88% of domestic coal is used for electricity. Freight trains play the biggest role in coal delivery, crossing thousands of miles throughout the US. Railroad companies use dedicated freight trains to transport it.

I recommend: Burlington Northern Santa Fe has 470 coal trains hauling coal from over 40 mines to 28 states. Union Pacific Railroad operates between Houston and New Orleans.

Connect with coal distribution by ship

Shipping coal by water is the second most common way coal is transported. Barge companies work domestically, shipping companies are used for international exportation of coal.

I recommend: American Commercial Lines works along the US waterways covering 12,000 miles as it transports coal. Eagle Bulk Shipping is a US-based company that ships coal overseas.

Keep trucking that coal delivery

The trucking industry accounts for 70% of the nation's way of moving freight. In moving coal, however, it plays a smaller role. Generally, trucks are used to move coal from mines to railroads and ports.

I recommend: Elmer Buchta Trucking hauls coal throughout Indiana. It prides itself on driver safety--an issue in the trucking industry. Hastie Mining and Trucking works out of Illinois hauling coal.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  This industry is likely to see some changes because scientists believe that the world will run out of coal in 127 years.