NOR Shipping Gains Traction As Firms Explore Refrigerated Container Alternatives

NOR Shipping Gains Traction As Firms Explore Refrigerated Container Alternatives

This article delves into the NOR (Non-Operating Reefer) mode in international shipping, where reefer containers are used as standard dry containers. It analyzes its applicability (e.g., dry container shortages, suitable cargo characteristics, cost optimization), operational procedures, advantages, disadvantages, and risk considerations. The aim is to assist shippers and freight forwarders in making informed decisions during times of tight shipping resources, achieving cost reduction and efficiency improvement. It provides insights into when and how to leverage NOR containers effectively.

02/02/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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US Rail Freight Gains in Coal Slumps in Container Traffic

US Rail Freight Gains in Coal Slumps in Container Traffic

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows that for the week ending November 29th, US rail freight traffic increased year-over-year, while intermodal traffic declined, indicating a 'hot carload, cold container' situation. Demand for coal, minerals, and grain is strong, while miscellaneous freight, forest products, and chemicals are down. Year-to-date figures still show growth. However, global economic uncertainties pose challenges. Digital transformation could present opportunities for the rail freight sector to adapt and thrive in the changing landscape.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Sees Mixed Carload Container Trends in November

US Rail Freight Sees Mixed Carload Container Trends in November

U.S. rail freight traffic increased by 4.3%, driven by commodities like coal. However, container traffic decreased by 6.5%. Despite this decline in container volume, the cumulative freight and container volumes for the entire year still showed growth. This indicates a mixed performance in the rail freight sector, with overall positive growth offset by a decrease in container shipping, highlighting the influence of specific commodities on overall freight volume and serving as a potential economic indicator.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Ports See Record Container Volumes As Demand Outpaces Capacity

US Ports See Record Container Volumes As Demand Outpaces Capacity

S&P Global Market Intelligence reports a continued rise in U.S. container freight volumes, up 13.4% year-over-year in September. While consumer goods demand remains robust, capital goods growth is slowing. Experts anticipate a stronger 2024, but supply chain challenges persist, requiring attention to labor disputes, geopolitical risks, and the impact of climate change. A 4.1% growth is projected for Q1 2025. These factors will significantly influence the future performance of the container freight industry and overall economic stability.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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MSC Container Ship Loses Power in Dardanelles Strait Tugs Deployed

MSC Container Ship Loses Power in Dardanelles Strait Tugs Deployed

On January 2nd, the MSC container ship “MSC Gianna III” (2825 TEU) experienced a mechanical failure in the Dardanelles Strait, Turkey, losing power and drifting. Turkish authorities promptly dispatched tugboats to assist, successfully towing the vessel to safety. The ship resumed its voyage on January 3rd. No injuries or environmental pollution were reported. The cause of the mechanical failure is currently under investigation.

02/03/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Loses in Container Volumes

US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Loses in Container Volumes

According to the Association of American Railroads, for the week ending January 21st, U.S. rail carloads increased by 3.3% year-over-year, while container traffic decreased by 6.7%, showing a diverging trend. A similar pattern was observed in overall North American rail freight volume, reflecting economic recovery uncertainties, supply chain challenges, and shifting consumer demand. The mixed performance highlights the complex interplay of factors influencing the transportation sector and its role as a key economic indicator.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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Busan Port Leads Northeast Asia Shipping Growth

Busan Port Leads Northeast Asia Shipping Growth

Busan Port, the sixth largest container hub in the world, is focused on expanding its infrastructure. Through the construction of new container terminals, integrated logistics complexes, and deep excavation projects, it aims to enhance international shipping capabilities and strengthen its position as a core container port in Northeast Asia.

08/05/2025 Port Encyclopedia
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Guide to Costeffective LCL Shipping for Businesses

Guide to Costeffective LCL Shipping for Businesses

LCL (Less than Container Load) consolidation combines shipments from multiple shippers to reduce costs and improve efficiency. Cargo is processed and handled at a Container Freight Station (CFS). LCL consolidation is an ideal solution for smaller shipments, enhancing international trade competitiveness by offering a cost-effective alternative to full container loads. This method allows businesses to ship smaller volumes without incurring the expense of a dedicated container, making global trade more accessible.

11/03/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Michigans Monroe Port to Transform Great Lakes Shipping

Michigans Monroe Port to Transform Great Lakes Shipping

Monroe Port in Michigan will launch its first international container terminal compliant with the Safe Port Act in 2026, breaking a long-standing bottleneck in container transportation. The new terminal will provide convenient services for export and import businesses, promote regional economic development, and achieve efficient and cost-effective container shipping.

08/07/2025 Logistics
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