US Rail Freight Sees Rising Carloads Falling Container Traffic

US Rail Freight Sees Rising Carloads Falling Container Traffic

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail carload traffic increased by 3.5% for the week ending September 11th, year-over-year. Shipments of commodities like coal and metallic ores rose, while container traffic decreased by 8.3% compared to the same period last year. Year-to-date figures show growth in both carload and container volumes. The article analyzes the contributing factors behind these trends and provides strategic recommendations for freight companies navigating the current market dynamics. The overall picture suggests a complex interplay of factors influencing rail freight in the context of economic recovery.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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Global Shipping Costs Explained for Importers and Exporters

Global Shipping Costs Explained for Importers and Exporters

International ocean freight costs consist of basic freight, surcharges, and miscellaneous fees. The calculation of basic freight differs between Full Container Load (FCL) and Less than Container Load (LCL) shipments. Ocean freight prices are affected by factors such as cargo type, route ports, seasonal supply and demand, and trade terms. It is recommended to obtain real-time quotes through professional freight forwarders, pay attention to hidden costs, and accurately declare dangerous goods to minimize cost risks.

02/02/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Exporters Adopt Strategies to Reduce Dead Freight Losses

Exporters Adopt Strategies to Reduce Dead Freight Losses

This article delves into the definition, occurrence scenarios, charging standards, and mitigation strategies of 'Dead Freight' in full container load (FCL) ocean shipping. By analyzing common dead freight situations, it provides practical advice for businesses to avoid or reduce dead freight losses, helping them optimize ocean freight cost management. The analysis covers key factors contributing to dead freight and offers actionable steps for shippers to improve booking accuracy and communication with carriers, ultimately leading to significant cost savings.

02/03/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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DAT Acquires Convoy to Expand Digital Freight Services

DAT Acquires Convoy to Expand Digital Freight Services

DAT Freight & Analytics has announced the acquisition of Flexport's Convoy digital freight platform. This move will enhance its product offerings by integrating automation and digital freight matching technologies, bringing new development opportunities and value to the industry.

08/06/2025 Logistics
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Europe Shipping Rates Volatile Amid Market Shifts Outlook Uncertain

Europe Shipping Rates Volatile Amid Market Shifts Outlook Uncertain

This article delves into the price trends of European ocean freight routes, revealing five major influencing factors: supply-demand imbalance, inflation, geopolitics, supply chain bottlenecks, and policy factors. It also forecasts future price trends and provides strategic advice for businesses and individuals to cope with price fluctuations. The aim is to help readers better understand market dynamics and make informed decisions. The analysis offers insights into navigating the complexities of the European shipping market and mitigating potential financial impacts.

02/05/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Freight Industry Adapts to Market Challenges Amid New Normal

Freight Industry Adapts to Market Challenges Amid New Normal

This LM Podcast features Tom Nightingale providing insights into key trends and challenges in the current freight and logistics market. He discusses the peak season outlook, capacity and rates, nearshoring trends, and the impact of the Baltimore event. He emphasizes the importance of strengthening risk management, embracing digital transformation, focusing on sustainability, and prioritizing talent development for businesses to navigate the complex and volatile market environment. Businesses should be proactive and adaptable to succeed in this dynamic landscape.

01/15/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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FBA Ocean Freight Guide Simplifies Crossborder Ecommerce Logistics

FBA Ocean Freight Guide Simplifies Crossborder Ecommerce Logistics

This article provides an in-depth analysis of FBA cross-border ocean freight, highlighting its importance in cross-border e-commerce. It details key factors for selecting the right ocean freight solution, including cargo type, timeliness, cost accounting, and freight forwarder selection. The article also lists common problems and corresponding strategies to help sellers avoid ocean freight pitfalls, improve logistics efficiency, and ultimately achieve success in cross-border e-commerce. It aims to provide practical guidance for optimizing the FBA ocean freight process.

02/12/2026 Logistics
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Shandongthailand Trade Seeks Shipping Cost Cuts

Shandongthailand Trade Seeks Shipping Cost Cuts

This article details the components of sea freight quotes from Shandong to Thailand, including basic freight, surcharges, insurance, and taxes, explaining the choice between FCL and LCL billing methods. It analyzes key factors influencing sea freight quotes, such as cargo nature, transport distance, transit time, and peak/off-peak seasons. Furthermore, it provides avenues for obtaining accurate sea freight quotes, assisting businesses in effectively controlling transportation costs. The aim is to provide a comprehensive understanding of sea freight pricing for China-Thailand trade.

02/03/2026 Logistics
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