US Rail Freight Carload Rises As Intermodal Declines

US Rail Freight Carload Rises As Intermodal Declines

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight traffic showed divergence in the week ending August 14. Carload traffic increased by 5.7% year-over-year, driven by demand for commodities like coal and metallic ores. Intermodal traffic decreased by 3% year-over-year, constrained by port congestion and other factors. Year-to-date figures show carload and intermodal traffic up 9% and 14.6% respectively. Railroad companies need to adopt differentiated strategies to address the changing market dynamics.

01/19/2026 Logistics
Read More
White House Boosts Global Supply Chain Resilience Amid Bottlenecks

White House Boosts Global Supply Chain Resilience Amid Bottlenecks

The White House is actively taking steps to address global supply chain challenges, including strengthening international cooperation, adjusting domestic policies, and implementing data monitoring. However, experts disagree on the effectiveness of these measures, arguing that deeper analysis and more targeted solutions are needed to truly build a strong, reliable, and efficient global supply chain. The current efforts, while well-intentioned, may require further refinement to achieve lasting resilience against future disruptions and ensure smooth flow of goods.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
Fedex Uses Empty Containers to Ease Port Congestion

Fedex Uses Empty Containers to Ease Port Congestion

FedEx has launched an innovative service leveraging empty container capacity to help customers bypass congested ports and save transit time. This initiative aims to address supply chain challenges, optimize resource allocation, and collaborate with various stakeholders to improve port congestion. The goal is to build a more efficient and resilient supply chain system by providing alternative freight solutions and mitigating the impact of port delays on businesses. This service offers a proactive approach to navigating current logistical hurdles.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
Supply Chain Delays Risk Holiday Retail Shortages

Supply Chain Delays Risk Holiday Retail Shortages

Global supply chain pressures persist, potentially leading to a container shortage during the year-end shopping season. Worsening port congestion forces retailers to prepare in advance, yet the 'congestion' remains a significant hurdle. Companies need to plan ahead, diversify transportation methods, optimize inventory, strengthen supply chain collaboration, and embrace digital transformation to effectively address these challenges. The current situation presents significant logistics challenges and requires proactive measures to mitigate potential disruptions and ensure timely delivery of goods.

01/19/2026 Logistics
Read More
Rail Freight Market Faces Challenges and Opportunities FTR

Rail Freight Market Faces Challenges and Opportunities FTR

This analysis examines the US rail freight market, focusing on carload, intermodal transportation, the CN-KCS merger, Precision Scheduled Railroading (PSR), and policy impacts. The study highlights the need for rail companies to embrace innovation and transformation to effectively address the evolving challenges within the industry. Key areas of focus include adapting to changing market demands, optimizing operational efficiency, and navigating the regulatory landscape to maintain competitiveness and drive sustainable growth in the rail freight sector.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
Major Shippers Reroute to Avoid Port Delays Easing Supply Chains

Major Shippers Reroute to Avoid Port Delays Easing Supply Chains

Faced with California port congestion, freight companies are actively seeking alternatives, including shifting to ports like the Northwest Seaport Alliance, leveraging digital technologies to enhance supply chain visibility, focusing on sustainability, and strengthening regional cooperation. Through diversified strategies, businesses aim to build a more resilient supply chain, address challenges, and seize opportunities. These efforts include exploring alternative routes, optimizing logistics, and fostering partnerships to mitigate disruptions and improve overall efficiency within the evolving global trade landscape.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
Trucking Firms Boost Safety Measures for Extreme Weather

Trucking Firms Boost Safety Measures for Extreme Weather

Faced with increasingly frequent extreme weather events, trucking companies need to build an all-weather safe driving system. By upgrading training content, establishing a real-time information sharing platform, utilizing simulation training, and learning from the successful experiences of companies like XPO Logistics, businesses can effectively address weather challenges, ensure driver safety, and maintain operational stability. This includes proactive measures to mitigate risks associated with severe conditions and ensure the continuity of supply chains despite unpredictable environmental factors.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
Private Fleets Grow As Supply Chain Fix Amid Disruptions

Private Fleets Grow As Supply Chain Fix Amid Disruptions

During the pandemic, private fleets have experienced growth due to their advantages in customer service and cost control, becoming a key component of corporate logistics strategies. They effectively address capacity shortages and improve operational efficiency. This resilience highlights the strategic importance of private fleets in navigating disruptions and optimizing supply chain management. Their ability to provide dedicated service and control costs makes them a valuable asset for companies seeking to enhance their logistics operations in a challenging environment.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
Dollar Tree Taps Exdollar General Exec to Revamp Supply Chain

Dollar Tree Taps Exdollar General Exec to Revamp Supply Chain

Dollar Tree has appointed Kindy, a former Dollar General executive, as its Chief Supply Chain Officer. This move aims to reshape the company's supply chain, enhance efficiency, and address increasingly complex challenges. The appointment signals Dollar Tree's commitment to optimizing its operations and pursuing growth opportunities in the competitive discount retail market. Kindy's experience is expected to be instrumental in streamlining processes and improving overall supply chain performance as Dollar Tree navigates a dynamic business environment.

01/19/2026 Logistics
Read More
California Exports Hold Steady Despite Economic Challenges

California Exports Hold Steady Despite Economic Challenges

California's export trade is showing positive momentum, benefiting from robust demand from key trading partners and increased port throughput. However, uncertainties in US trade policy and misconceptions about the trade deficit with China pose potential risks. California should strengthen cooperation with trading partners, diversify export markets, enhance product competitiveness, and monitor trade policy changes to address challenges and maintain growth momentum. This requires a proactive approach to navigate the evolving global trade landscape and ensure continued economic resilience.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More