Water transportation

Water traffic includes traffic that takes place on water surfaces (sea, lakes, rivers, canals). However, maritime transport is by far the most important part of water transport.
Maritime transport accounts for about 4/5 of total international trade.
In terms of cargo volume and labor productivity, maritime transport exceeds all other types of traffic.
Sea freight rates are the lowest of all modes of transport. Labor productivity in maritime transport is 5-6 times higher than in rail and river, and the cost is almost 2 times lower.
The development of trade in ancient times was conditioned by the development of shipping (both on seas and rivers).