Here are a couple of examples of the next step up in canal barges from those in the last picture. These are somewhat more traditionally shaped and configured. They are capable and most do carry the entire family of the owner/operator. They tend to haul coal, gravel, cement and ore for various industrial applications. As you can see, this type of barge is usually loaded to within a few inches of the maximum waterline. Anything unusual has the potential of scuttling these craft.