Final answer:
In the commercial inland marine business, bulk carriers and container ships are the largest classes, with bulk carriers accounting for significant overseas arrivals and BW discharges in the US. Container ships frequently arrive on the West and East coasts and have a high discharge frequency, showcasing their importance in global trade.
Step-by-step explanation:
The largest classes of commercial inland marine business involve transporting a variety of cargoes globally. On inspecting the main types of cargo vessels and their role in commercial shipping, it becomes clear that certain classes dominate in terms of size and frequency. Bulk carriers, for instance, are vital agents in the shipping industry. Not only do they account for a significant 17.6% of overseas arrivals to the US, but they also discharge a massive 62.4% of the overseas ballast water (BW), highlighting their pivotal role. They exhibit notable flexibility in their operations, with frequently changing routes in response to market demands.
Container ships are also crucial in the field, responsible for a considerable number of overseas arrivals, especially on the West and East coasts of the US. Despite discharging smaller volumes of BW per event, container ships participate in a high frequency of discharges, contributing to the global shipping network's complexity. The adaptability of container ships allows them to operate across various ports and regions.
In summary, the vast majority of commercial inland marine business is carried by these two types of vessels – bulk carriers and container ships – with each type serving a unique and indispensable role in the movement of cargo on a global scale. These vessels facilitate the transport of goods within the global economy, underpinning international trade and commerce.