US Rail Intermodal Gains Offset Carload Declines

US Rail Intermodal Gains Offset Carload Declines

According to the Association of American Railroads, the U.S. rail freight market showed a divergence in the week ending October 17th. Container traffic increased by 11.3% year-over-year, while traditional freight declined by 7.5%. E-commerce growth and supply chain restructuring are driving the growth of container business. Meanwhile, energy transition and manufacturing adjustments are causing the decline in traditional freight. Railway companies should increase investment in container business, expand diversified businesses, strengthen technological innovation, and actively participate in policy making.

01/17/2026 Logistics
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Experts Analyze Shifts in Global Freight Economy Trends

Experts Analyze Shifts in Global Freight Economy Trends

Breakthrough's Chief Economist, Matt Muenster, provides an in-depth analysis of key factors impacting the freight economy on the Logistics Management podcast, including tariffs, manufacturing, capacity, inflation, demand patterns, and pricing. He emphasizes the connection between macroeconomics and micro-level practices, offering actionable strategies for businesses. The podcast aims to explore supply chain innovation and empower companies to make informed decisions in a complex market. It provides valuable insights for navigating the challenges and opportunities within the freight and logistics landscape.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Congress Urged to Block US Rail Strike Amid Economic Risks

Congress Urged to Block US Rail Strike Amid Economic Risks

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce warns of a potential nationwide railroad strike if unions and freight companies fail to reach an agreement or Congress doesn't intervene. A strike could cause $2 billion in daily economic losses, impacting critical sectors like food, passenger transport, manufacturing, and energy. The Chamber supports the Presidential Emergency Board's recommendations and urges Congress to take action to avert an economic disaster. The potential strike highlights the severe consequences of unresolved labor disputes and the fragility of the supply chain.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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Vietnam India Gain As Firms Rethink China Supply Chains

Vietnam India Gain As Firms Rethink China Supply Chains

A Qima report indicates Vietnam and India are emerging as significant alternative sourcing locations to China. Vietnam benefits from surging demand from Western buyers, while India faces pandemic-related challenges. Supply chain diversification is becoming a trend, requiring businesses to reassess their reliance on China and develop flexible response strategies. Companies are actively seeking alternative manufacturing hubs to mitigate risks and ensure business continuity. This shift highlights the importance of adaptability and strategic planning in navigating the evolving global landscape.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Chinaeurope Shipping Costs Surge Amid Supply Chain Strains

Chinaeurope Shipping Costs Surge Amid Supply Chain Strains

This paper delves into the underlying reasons for the surge in China-Europe sea freight rates, encompassing factors such as soaring demand, capacity shortages, port congestion, rising oil prices, environmental regulations, labor shortages, and geopolitical risks. The article also outlines the three main shipping routes between China and Europe and offers a perspective on the future challenges and opportunities in the shipping market. The rise in sea freight rates has the most significant impact on industries such as manufacturing, retail, and agriculture.

01/26/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Wearable Tech Boosts Smart Factory Efficiency and Revenue

Wearable Tech Boosts Smart Factory Efficiency and Revenue

A Zebra Technologies study reveals that connected factories worldwide will double within five years, with over a third of companies expecting to achieve this by 2022. Nearly 88% anticipate revenue growth, with 44% projecting at least a 5% increase. Connected factories, through quality checkpoints, automation, and wearable technology, enhance flexibility, quality control, production efficiency, and business insights, helping companies seize the opportunities of smart manufacturing. This transformation allows for improved operational performance and a competitive edge in the evolving industrial landscape.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Service Sector Growth Slows in March Raising Economic Concerns

US Service Sector Growth Slows in March Raising Economic Concerns

The ISM's March Non-Manufacturing Report indicates a slowdown in growth, despite the index remaining above the expansion threshold. Key indicators experienced a broad decline, and sector performance diverged. The report reflects uncertainty among businesses, but the overall economy demonstrates resilience. While economic growth is slowing, the underlying economy is still strong. Future developments require close monitoring to capitalize on emerging opportunities and navigate market fluctuations. The report suggests a need for businesses to adapt to the changing economic landscape.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Nonmanufacturing Sector Growth Impacts Logistics NMI Shows

Nonmanufacturing Sector Growth Impacts Logistics NMI Shows

This paper provides an in-depth interpretation of the NMI (Non-Manufacturing Index), a crucial indicator, and elucidates its significance for the logistics industry. By reviewing historical data and analyzing the correlation between the NMI index, market demand, and the economic environment, along with other economic indicators like GDP and employment data, this study offers practical advice for logistics companies. This guidance helps them forecast the market, optimize operations, and formulate development plans, ultimately assisting companies in standing out in the competitive landscape.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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US Nonmanufacturing Sector Expands Steadily in February ISM

US Nonmanufacturing Sector Expands Steadily in February ISM

The ISM report indicates that US non-manufacturing activity remained robust in February. While the NMI index slightly decreased, it remained above the expansion threshold. Industry development is diverse, with solid new orders and strong business activity. The employment market experienced slight fluctuations, but experts believe the overall trend is positive. The report conveys a cautiously optimistic signal, urging businesses to seize opportunities and flexibly respond to challenges. The sector continues to contribute significantly to economic growth despite minor variations in specific indicators.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Services Sector Defies Economic Slowdown ISM

US Services Sector Defies Economic Slowdown ISM

The November US ISM Non-Manufacturing Report indicates continued solid growth, with the NMI index reaching 60.7. While business activity and new orders remained strong, the sector faces challenges including a skills shortage in the labor market and persistent upward pressure on prices. Tariffs and trade friction introduce uncertainty. Experts view the economic outlook as optimistic but emphasize the need to address these challenges. Businesses and policymakers should proactively respond to these factors to sustain growth and mitigate potential risks.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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