US Rail Freight Mixed As Intermodal Gains Over Thanksgiving

US Rail Freight Mixed As Intermodal Gains Over Thanksgiving

Data from the Association of American Railroads reveals mixed trends in U.S. rail freight for the week ending November 25th. Carload traffic declined year-over-year, likely due to the Thanksgiving holiday. However, intermodal traffic saw an increase. Year-to-date figures show a slight increase in carload traffic and a minor decrease in intermodal volume. To foster sustainable growth, railway companies should focus on service innovation, and the government should prioritize infrastructure investments.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Railroads Face Supply Chain Strains Amid Infrastructure Push

US Railroads Face Supply Chain Strains Amid Infrastructure Push

Ian Jefferies, President of the Association of American Railroads, provides an in-depth analysis of the Infrastructure Bill and White House executive orders' impact on rail freight, as well as the challenges and opportunities in the global supply chain. He emphasizes the crucial role of railroads in enhancing supply chain resilience and expresses confidence in the future of the rail and intermodal markets. He discusses how the bill will modernize rail infrastructure and improve efficiency.

02/11/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Rail Freight Sees Carload Rise Intermodal Dip in March

US Rail Freight Sees Carload Rise Intermodal Dip in March

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail carload traffic increased by 2.8% for the week ending March 5th, while intermodal traffic decreased by 5.8% year-over-year. Performance varied across commodity categories, with declines in carloads of motor vehicles and parts, grain, and petroleum and petroleum products. Overall, the U.S. rail freight industry faces a mix of challenges and opportunities. Factors such as macroeconomic conditions, supply chains, and energy policies warrant close attention.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Surges Amid Economic Recovery Signs

US Rail Freight Surges Amid Economic Recovery Signs

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows a significant increase in rail freight and intermodal volumes for the week ending February 19th. This surge suggests a potential economic recovery is underway. The rise in both freight and intermodal shipments points to increased demand across various sectors, indicating a positive trend in the overall economic landscape. This observation highlights the role of rail transportation as a key indicator of economic health and activity.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Decline Sparks Economic Concern

US Rail Freight Decline Sparks Economic Concern

According to the Association of American Railroads, for the week ending May 21, U.S. rail freight volume decreased by 3.7% year-over-year, and intermodal volume decreased by 4.5%. Coal and chemical product shipments increased against the trend, but grain shipments declined. Year-to-date, total rail freight volume increased slightly by 0.4%, while intermodal volume decreased by 6.8%. Economic downturn risks, supply chain bottlenecks, and industry competition are major challenges, requiring proactive corporate responses.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Declines in May Amid Coal Chemical Gains

US Rail Freight Declines in May Amid Coal Chemical Gains

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows that U.S. rail freight and intermodal traffic declined year-over-year in late May, though coal and chemical shipments bucked the trend with gains. Year-to-date, freight traffic saw a slight increase, while intermodal continued its decline. Supply chain managers should pay attention to factors such as inflation and geopolitical risks, and strengthen demand forecasting and diversify transportation channels to mitigate potential disruptions.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Decline Points to Economic Slowdown

US Rail Freight Decline Points to Economic Slowdown

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight traffic decreased by 3.7% year-over-year for the week ending May 21, while intermodal traffic fell by 4.5%. Coal and chemical shipments increased, while grain and metals declined. Year-to-date, freight traffic is up 0.4%, but intermodal traffic is down 6.8%. The decline in rail freight could signal an economic slowdown, requiring proactive responses from railway companies and increased investment from the government.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Volumes Drop Amid Economic Slowdown

US Rail Freight Volumes Drop Amid Economic Slowdown

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows a year-over-year decline in U.S. rail freight volume for the second week of June, with both carloads and intermodal facing pressure. Mixed performance across commodity categories reflects structural economic adjustments. The combined impact of macroeconomic factors, supply chain disruptions, and geopolitical tensions contributes to a cautiously optimistic market outlook. Active responses to challenges and seizing opportunities are crucial for navigating the future.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Sector Faces Mixed Outlook Amid Challenges

US Rail Freight Sector Faces Mixed Outlook Amid Challenges

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows mixed results for U.S. rail freight traffic for the week ending August 27. Carload traffic increased by 3.4% year-over-year, while intermodal container volume slightly decreased. Significant growth was observed in coal, grain, and automotive sectors, while petroleum, metals, and forest products faced challenges. Companies should closely monitor market dynamics, optimize transportation plans, and expand diversified businesses to seize opportunities and mitigate risks.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Loses in Intermodal

US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Loses in Intermodal

The US rail freight market is diverging: carload traffic is up slightly, driven by demand for autos, coal, and agricultural products. However, intermodal container volume continues to decline due to easing port congestion, truck competition, and cooling consumer spending. Year-to-date figures are mixed, with overall North American rail performance weak. Rail freight faces challenges including economic downturns, supply chain instability, and increased competition, but also opportunities in sustainable development and technological innovation.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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