lake freighters operating on the Great Lakes can be differentiated by how they are used. They may be classified according to where they work, their design, their size, or other factors. The ships are not always exclusive to one category. These types include:

* Laker - a bulk carrier operating primarily in the upper Great Lakes.
* Longboats - lakers noted for their slender appearance.
* Oreboat/Ironboat - a bulk carrier used primarily to transport iron ore and taconite