US Rail Freight Rises Intermodal Surges in Early March

US Rail Freight Rises Intermodal Surges in Early March

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight and intermodal volume both increased year-over-year for the week ending March 8, 2025. However, year-to-date, total carload traffic is down 1.5%, while intermodal volume is up 8.4%. Coal and grain shipments increased, while metallic ores, chemicals, and forest products declined. Railroad companies should capitalize on intermodal opportunities and address freight challenges to achieve sustainable growth.

01/30/2026 Logistics
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US Service Sector Growth Slows in Latest PMI Report

US Service Sector Growth Slows in Latest PMI Report

The US Services PMI has grown for five consecutive months, but the growth rate is slowing. Declines in several sub-indices suggest future challenges. There is divergence within the industry, and inflationary pressures persist. Businesses need to strengthen risk management, optimize supply chains, and innovate service models to cope with a complex and volatile market environment. The slower growth and persistent inflation highlight potential headwinds for the service sector.

01/30/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Transpacific Shipping Rates to Fluctuate Sharply in Early 2026

Transpacific Shipping Rates to Fluctuate Sharply in Early 2026

The Trans-Pacific shipping market is currently experiencing a surge in activity and rising freight rates due to the approaching Lunar New Year. However, looking ahead to 2026, factors such as increased shipping capacity, inventory saturation, and early shipments in the previous year are expected to lead to a decrease in cargo volume. Consequently, freight rates are likely to remain low and volatile. Shippers should be aware of market fluctuations and plan their shipments accordingly to mitigate potential risks.

01/30/2026 Logistics
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Ecommerce Sellers Face Challenges in Avoiding International Shipping Losses

Ecommerce Sellers Face Challenges in Avoiding International Shipping Losses

Lost packages via international express delivery significantly impact cross-border e-commerce sellers. This article delves into common causes of lost packages, including negligent packaging, logistical errors, customs delays, theft, and extreme weather. It also provides targeted preventative measures aimed at helping sellers avoid the 'logistics black hole' and safeguard their trade security. By understanding these risks and implementing proactive strategies, sellers can minimize losses and ensure smoother international shipping operations.

01/30/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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WCO Backs HR Modernization for Customs in Senegal Gabon

WCO Backs HR Modernization for Customs in Senegal Gabon

The World Customs Organization (WCO), through the WACAM project, is providing human resource modernization support to the Customs administrations of Senegal and Gabon. This includes refining tools such as job catalogs and competency frameworks, as well as identifying change management actions. Both countries plan to validate the tools and launch pilot programs in early 2016. The project aims to improve the management efficiency of Customs in both countries and serve as a model for the West and Central African regions.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
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West Africa Customs Seminar Advances Gender Equality in Trade

West Africa Customs Seminar Advances Gender Equality in Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a high-level Gender Equality and Diversity (GED) seminar in Nigeria, empowering customs administrations from four West African countries. By raising awareness of gender mainstreaming, focusing on gender and security issues, and utilizing the GEOAT tool, the seminar assisted customs departments in developing and implementing GED action plans. The aim is to promote trade security, inclusive development, and address the challenges faced by women in cross-border trade. This initiative strengthens customs capacity to better serve all members of society.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Temu Enters Canada Amid Crossborder Ecommerce Challenges

Temu Enters Canada Amid Crossborder Ecommerce Challenges

Pinduoduo's cross-border e-commerce platform, Temu, is rapidly expanding in the North American market, launching its Canadian site after its US success. Temu has achieved significant results in North America with its low-price strategy and unique marketing model. However, the profit pressure from low prices and intense market competition pose challenges for sellers. Whether Temu can establish a long-term foothold in the North American market remains to be seen.

01/23/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Chinas Stainless Steel Prices Hit RMB 14000ton Amid Demand Doubts

Chinas Stainless Steel Prices Hit RMB 14000ton Amid Demand Doubts

On January 15, 2026, cold-rolled stainless steel prices exceeded 14,000 yuan/ton, but market acceptance remained limited, leading to a price inversion in the spot market. Weak downstream demand is restricting further price increases, and prices may face downward pressure in the short term. The balance between supply and demand will determine the long-term price trend. Businesses should closely monitor market dynamics.

01/26/2026 HS Code Query
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