What were the advantages of a barge over an oxcart?

Answer 1

Barges offered several advantages over oxcarts, primarily in terms of capacity and efficiency. They could transport larger quantities of goods over water, reducing the need for multiple trips and enabling bulk shipments. Additionally, barges were less affected by rough terrain and could navigate longer distances without the physical strain on animals, making them a more reliable option for trade and transportation in many regions. Lastly, the use of waterways often allowed for faster travel compared to overland routes.