After a substantial dip in revenue a few years ago, local transportation companies are showing signs of a stable rebound. All of the top companies surveyed by CityBusiness reported gains year over year.

Canal Barge Co. Inc. led the group again this year. The company added four employees compared to last year, while increasing its revenue from $375.8 million in 2017 to $391.5 million in 2018.

President and CEO H. Merritt Lane III attributed the growth to a diversified business portfolio that provides several paths to gain revenue.

He said the company was able to raise prices over time and brought in new business. One of those additions includes servicing a Shell chemical plant in Pennsylvania that is being constructed. Canal Barge is the predominant marine transportation provider for the project. He said the business from that “megaproject” is expected to continue through 2020.

“That moved the needle,” he said.

Lane added that the price of fuel rebounding has helped the company as well. Activities in the oil field slow down when the price of oil goes down, which lessens the demand for the transportation business.

He said grain has been a major mover as well. Uncertainty over U.S. trade relations with China has created a “chilling effect” in the market, he added.

“There is some optimism right now that things are going to get better,” he said. “In general, that has been a challenge.”

Acme Truck Line’s employee base dropped by 100 employees from year to year. Revenue increased from $240 million in 2017 to $290.5 million in 2018.

Blessey Marine Services Inc. added employees, going from 687 in 2018 to 720 currently. Revenue rebounded as well, growing from $204 million in 2017 to $219.7 million in 2018.

New Orleans Steamboat Company saw a dip in employees, dropping from 220 in 2018 to 165 employees now. Revenue increased from $22 million in 2017 to $24.2 million in 2018.

To sign up for free CityBusiness Daily Updates, click here.