Operator of inland and offshore tank barges and towing vessels, serving the marine transportation needs of customers across the globe.
Kirby Corporation, based in Houston, Texas, operates as a prominent player in the domestic tank barge industry within the United States. The company's Marine Transportation segment serves a crucial role in transporting bulk liquid products via its extensive fleet of tank barges and towing vessels. This operation spans across major waterways including the Mississippi River System, the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway, and the coastlines of all three U.S. coasts, in addition to operations in Alaska and Hawaii. Kirby Corporation specializes in transporting a wide range of cargoes such as petrochemicals, black oil, refined petroleum products, and agricultural chemicals.
As of December 31, 2021, Kirby Corporation owned and operated a substantial fleet comprising 1,025 inland tank barges, approximately 255 inland towboats, 31 coastal tank barges, 29 coastal tugboats, 4 offshore dry-bulk cargo barges, 4 offshore tugboats, and 1 docking tugboat. This extensive fleet underscores the company's capability to provide efficient and reliable marine transportation services across diverse geographical regions.
In addition to its Marine Transportation segment, Kirby Corporation's Distribution and Services segment plays a critical role in the aftermarket service industry. It offers genuine replacement parts for engines, transmissions, electric motors, and other essential equipment used in various sectors including oilfield services, marine operations, power generation, and industrial applications. The segment also provides rental services for generators, industrial compressors, high-capacity lift trucks, and refrigeration trailers, catering to a broad customer base that includes both commercial entities and the United States government.
Founded in 1921 as Kirby Exploration Company, Inc., the company underwent a name change to Kirby Corporation in 1990. Throughout its history, Kirby Corporation has maintained a strong commitment to excellence in marine transportation and distribution services, continually adapting to meet the evolving needs of its customers while upholding its reputation for reliability and operational integrity.