Pusher-barge systems were studied in nine different configurations. Captive model tests were performed at the Hiroshima University Towing Tank and the hydrodynamic derivatives for the various configurations were obtained. At a service speed of 7 knots, pusher-barge systems with the same number of barges but arranged in a row (shorter length overall but with a larger breadth) require more power to operate than those that were arranged in a line. When the length overall increased, the tactical diameter, advance, and transfer distances also increased, mainly due to the significant increase in the moment of inertia when barges are arranged in a line, rather than in a row. All pusher-barge systems had small first and second overshoot angles. Pusher-barge systems with the same number of barges had a longer response time to the rudder angle of attack and required a longer stopping distance when arranged in a line, mainly due to the increased moment of inertia and reduced resistance when barges are arranged in this way.