Chem Carriers is based in Sunshine, Louisiana, and operates on the lower Mississippi River between Corpus Christi and New Orleans. Director of Marketing Nick Kohnke explained more about the company’s decades of expertise in the inland marine liquid transportation industry.
Chem Carriers, a company rooted in tradition and excellence, was founded by Frank Banta with help from his brother Robert Banta. Their deep seated connection to the towing industry has shaped a remarkable success story. Raised on the river, the Banta brothers started towing vessels for their father’s company from their early teens, instilling in them a lifelong passion for the maritime world.
One of the distinctive aspects that sets Chem Carriers apart is its family touch. In an industry where many have moved
toward corporate structures led by lawyers, accountants, and bankers, Chem Carriers remains true to its family roots.
Frank and Robert continue to participate actively in the company’s operations, with Frank as the Managing Owner and Robert as the Port Captain. This hands on
approach ensures a level of responsiveness that is often hard to find elsewhere, proving that a company does not need a complex hierarchy to get things done.
The company’s journey began in 1994 as a barge building business, but took a pivotal turn in 2005 when Hurricane Katrina necessitated a shift into the towing sector due to a shortage of horsepower. This strategic move allowed Chem Carriers to gain more control over the quality of service provided to customers. In 2010, another phase of growth saw the company diversify further, entering the unit tow side of the business.
Today, Chem Carriers boasts a formidable fleet, including 13 towboats, 52 inland tank
barges, and a 174 barge capacity fleeting service. With 115 employees on the vessels and 25 shoreside, the company is a well oiled machine, dedicated to providing top-notch services.
Bespoke boats
Innovation is at the core of Chem Carriers’ operations. The company is currently building two retractable boats. These boats, known for their control and maneuverability, are equipped with large wheels and rudders, ensuring that they punch above their weight class. This forward thinking approach, combined with a focus on using time tested design principles, underlines Chem Carriers’ dedication to excellence.
“We were highly impressed with the design, receiving commendations from crews on our other two boats,” explained Mr. Kohnke. “This choice ensures uniformity in parts, facilitating easy access to spares and streamlining operations. Embracing the belief in the efficacy of older boat designs from the ‘40s and ‘50s, Frank knows that smaller rudders prevent water capture, thereby losing efficiency.
“These boats truly shine in action. During a project to move a massive deck barge with project cargo, our vessels outperformed the others. The customer, astonished at performance, acknowledged the remarkable controllability of our vessel.
“This holds immense significance for us as it has the capacity for 50 to 60 barges. Already operational, we are enhancing safety measures, including spud barges, to secure the fleet. We are open for business.”
The significance of safety
Safety is paramount in the maritime industry, and Chem Carriers is no exception. The company places a strong emphasis on maintaining a vigilant approach to health and safety. Regular inspections, drills, and accessible online resources for the crew ensure that safety remains a top priority.
Additionally, Chem Carriers invests in its team through an outstanding training program, fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Employees are encouraged to be involved in all aspects of the business, from top to bottom, ensuring that
the team remains well prepared to tackle any challenges that may arise.
“In the dynamic marine environment, always subject to change,” Mr. Kohnke reflected, “tow boating is essentially an outdoor sport. Dealing with constant elements and challenges requires a strong emphasis on training our personnel and cultivating them within the company.”
As Chem Carriers looks to the future, the commitment to excellence and growth remains unwavering. Its history of overcoming obstacles and consistently exceeding customer expectations sets Chem Carriers on a path to continued success. The company prioritizes relationships, both with customers and suppliers, built on trust, transparency, and going the extra mile.
A bright future
Chem Carriers has a strong history of overcoming the odds to succeed. Mr. Kohnke recalled an occasion when high water on
the Mississippi at Baton Rouge allowed the company to help out in a way that others could not.
“Facing hazardous conditions with the river gauge at 34 feet, we ensured safe barge transport for a customer with a refinery,” he explained. “This not only kept the plant operational but solidified our relationship. It demonstrated our commitment to going above and beyond, accomplishing what other companies couldn’t do safely.”
As with its own customers, Chem Carriers prioritizes the maintenance of a strong relationship with suppliers based on trust and respect.
“We value honesty, transparency, and going the extra mile in our vendors,” Mr. Kohnke said. “Long term relationships are built when suppliers provide exceptional service and show a willingness to work with us in time sensitive situations to get the job done.”
For Mr. Kohnke, the satisfaction of a job well done is what motivates him each
day. “Engaging with customers, earning their business, and surpassing expectations to build lasting relationships is truly rewarding,” he said, in conclusion. “Our commitment to exceeding standards
ensures long term partnerships with our customers, reflecting our dedication to being more than a vendor, but a partner who is an extension of their company, and who has the same set of values.” n
