North American Intermodal Volume Rises in Q3 on Domestic Demand

North American Intermodal Volume Rises in Q3 on Domestic Demand

The Intermodal Association of North America reported that intermodal volumes in Q3 grew nearly 5% year-over-year, driven primarily by domestic container shipping. Despite economic uncertainty, the intermodal market demonstrated resilience, although the growth rate was the slowest since 2009. Industry experts suggest that intermodal transportation is gaining market share from trucking and is expected to maintain steady growth in the future. The increase highlights the continued importance of intermodal solutions for efficient freight movement across North America.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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April Data Shows Mixed Results for Multimodal Transport Sector

April Data Shows Mixed Results for Multimodal Transport Sector

According to the Intermodal Association of North America, North American intermodal volume edged up just 0.2% in April, with divergent performance across segments. Trailer volume declined significantly, domestic containers remained weak, while international containers saw growth against the trend. Factors such as loose truck capacity, railway service adjustments, and trade frictions are impacting industry development. The report forecasts a full-year volume growth of 2%-3%. Companies need to optimize services and increase technology investment to meet the challenges.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Sees Mixed Trends Carloads Drop Container Growth Slows

US Rail Freight Sees Mixed Trends Carloads Drop Container Growth Slows

Data from the Association of American Railroads reveals a divergence in US rail freight: carload traffic is declining year-over-year, primarily due to weak coal demand; container traffic growth is slowing, potentially signaling cooling consumer demand. This analysis examines key factors influencing rail freight volume and explores future opportunities and challenges for the industry. The slowdown in container traffic raises concerns about the overall economic outlook, as it often serves as a leading indicator of consumer spending.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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US Dockworkers Employers Negotiate to Prevent Automation Strike

US Dockworkers Employers Negotiate to Prevent Automation Strike

The International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) will resume negotiations on January 7th to avert a potential strike after their contract expires on January 15th. The core issue revolves around port automation, specifically the use of semi-automated gantry cranes. The ILA fears automation will jeopardize worker jobs, while the USMX aims to enhance port competitiveness. The outcome of these negotiations will significantly impact US port operations, worker rights, and the global supply chain.

01/30/2026 Logistics
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West Coast Import Boom Fuels Strong Q4 Intermodal Growth

West Coast Import Boom Fuels Strong Q4 Intermodal Growth

The Intermodal Association of North America (IANA) reported a strong start to Q4 for intermodal transportation, with October volumes up 8.9% year-over-year. This growth was fueled by a surge in West Coast imports and robust consumer spending. International containers were a key driver, showing a cumulative increase of 15.2% for the year. Industry experts anticipate strong international freight volumes to continue through the end of the year. Tightening truck capacity is expected to further benefit intermodal transportation.

01/30/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Intermodal Rises Coal Declines in February

US Rail Freight Intermodal Rises Coal Declines in February

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail carload traffic decreased slightly by 0.7% year-over-year for the week ending February 8. However, intermodal traffic increased by 7.4%. Chemical and nonmetallic minerals carloads increased, while coal and metallic ores carloads declined. Year-to-date, carload traffic is even with last year, while intermodal traffic is up 9.7%. The rail freight market is experiencing structural changes, with intermodal transportation becoming a major driver of growth.

01/30/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Volumes Reflect Economic Uncertainty

US Rail Freight Volumes Reflect Economic Uncertainty

According to the Association of American Railroads, for the week ending February 22, U.S. rail carload traffic decreased by 13.6% year-over-year, while container traffic increased by 2.3%. Year-to-date through early 2025, carload traffic is down 2.4%, and container traffic is up 8.4%. This contrasting situation reflects the challenges and opportunities of the U.S. economy's transition, foreshadowing structural changes and the rise of emerging industries. The diverging trends suggest a complex economic landscape.

01/30/2026 Logistics
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East Coast Ports Secure Labor Deal but Recovery Challenges Remain

East Coast Ports Secure Labor Deal but Recovery Challenges Remain

A preliminary agreement between the International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) has temporarily averted a supply chain crisis at US East Coast and Gulf Coast ports. While an agreement is in place, full port operational recovery will take time, and backlogs and delays are expected to persist in the short term. Industry stakeholders are closely examining the agreement's details. Modernizing port infrastructure remains crucial for enhancing long-term efficiency and resilience to future disruptions.

01/30/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Volumes Rise in Late April Signaling Recovery

US Rail Freight Volumes Rise in Late April Signaling Recovery

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight traffic for the week ending April 26 increased by 9.0% year-over-year, with intermodal volume up 2.6%. Year-to-date, total freight traffic rose 1.5%, and intermodal volume grew by 8.0%. Increased shipments were observed in coal, grain, and chemicals, while nonmetallic minerals, motor vehicles, and petroleum products saw declines. These figures suggest signs of economic recovery, but structural shifts and long-term trends warrant close attention.

02/03/2026 Logistics
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Niche Freight Forwarders Thrive in Specialized Markets

Niche Freight Forwarders Thrive in Specialized Markets

According to Brandon Fried, Executive Director of the Airforwarders Association, the freight forwarding industry's entry barriers aren't insurmountable. Focusing on niche markets, providing value-added services, and building strong customer relationships are key for small freight forwarders to thrive. While Damco's expansion indicates industry consolidation, a small and specialized strategy still offers opportunities for growth. These strategies allow smaller companies to compete effectively against larger competitors by offering specialized expertise and personalized service within specific market segments.