US Rail Freight Growth Mixed in September YTD Up

US Rail Freight Growth Mixed in September YTD Up

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows that for the week ending September 20th, U.S. rail carloads and intermodal traffic both decreased year-over-year, primarily due to factors such as weak coal demand. However, cumulative data for the year still indicates growth. This article provides an in-depth analysis of the key factors influencing rail freight and looks ahead to future challenges and opportunities, emphasizing the importance of focusing on long-term trends.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Decline Points to Economic Slowdown

US Rail Freight Decline Points to Economic Slowdown

Recent data reveals a decline in both U.S. rail freight and intermodal volumes, raising concerns about the economic outlook. While year-to-date figures remain relatively positive, macroeconomic factors and persistent supply chain bottlenecks pose significant challenges. Businesses need to closely monitor market trends, optimize their supply chains, and diversify their strategies to navigate the uncertainty. This downturn in rail freight is being watched as a potential leading indicator of broader economic slowdown.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Rises in Early August on Carload Intermodal Growth

US Rail Freight Rises in Early August on Carload Intermodal Growth

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight continued to grow in the week ending August 9th, with carload traffic up 2.4% year-over-year and intermodal traffic up 3.4%. Year-to-date figures show a 2.8% increase in total carloads and a 4.6% increase in total intermodal volume. This growth in rail freight reflects the overall economic recovery in the United States. However, the industry faces challenges related to infrastructure and competition.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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RXO Uber Freight to Showcase Logistics Tech at Nextgen 2025

RXO Uber Freight to Showcase Logistics Tech at Nextgen 2025

The 2025 NextGen Supply Chain Conference, led by Uber Freight, focuses on the future of logistics. It will explore AI, automation, and data-driven strategies to address challenges and seize opportunities in the evolving supply chain landscape. Attendees will gain insights into leveraging these technologies to optimize operations, improve efficiency, and enhance resilience. The summit aims to provide a platform for industry leaders to connect, collaborate, and shape the future of supply chain management.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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Prologis Report Hints at Logistics Real Estate Shift

Prologis Report Hints at Logistics Real Estate Shift

The Prologis IBI report indicates a turning point in logistics real estate demand, with net absorption, new lease signings, and project pipelines all exceeding the 2024 average. E-commerce and large enterprises are leading the market recovery. Companies are adopting more cautious inventory strategies, resulting in stable vacancy rates but a slowdown in new construction. Market participants need to seize opportunities, address challenges, and flexibly adjust their strategies to navigate the evolving landscape.

Industrial Real Estate Demand Holds Firm As Construction Slows

Industrial Real Estate Demand Holds Firm As Construction Slows

A CBRE report indicates strong industrial real estate leasing demand in Q3, with 3PLs driving growth. Slower construction pace is balancing supply and demand. E-commerce continues to fuel warehousing needs. The market presents both challenges and opportunities, requiring businesses and developers to carefully assess risks and seek growth through equilibrium. Companies should focus on optimizing their strategies to navigate the evolving landscape and capitalize on emerging trends in logistics and warehousing.

NRF Warns of Inflation Geopolitical Risks to Retail Supply Chains

NRF Warns of Inflation Geopolitical Risks to Retail Supply Chains

NRF expert Jonathan Gold analyzes the challenges facing the retail supply chain, including inflation, fluctuating retail container imports, and geopolitical risks like the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The report examines the impact of these factors on the retail industry and proposes strategies such as enhancing supply chain visibility, diversifying sourcing channels, and optimizing inventory management. These measures aim to help retail businesses mitigate crises and achieve sustainable growth in the face of ongoing global uncertainties.

Major Retailers Forecast Record Holiday Sales Amid Economic Concerns

Major Retailers Forecast Record Holiday Sales Amid Economic Concerns

The National Retail Federation (NRF) forecasts 2025 holiday sales to reach $1.01-$1.02 trillion, a 3.7%-4.2% increase year-over-year. Despite economic uncertainties, consumer spending remains robust. Retailers need to precisely target customers, optimize supply chains, embrace digitalization, and flexibly adapt to market changes to succeed in this trillion-dollar opportunity. This requires a strategic approach to navigate potential challenges and capitalize on the continued strength of consumer demand during the holiday season.

Tech Adoption Boosts Supply Chains Amid Trade Wars

Tech Adoption Boosts Supply Chains Amid Trade Wars

A Descartes Systems Group study reveals that 74% of supply chain leaders consider technology crucial for growth, with an even higher percentage among high-growth companies. Global trade intelligence is the top technology choice at 36%, followed by trade analytics and supply chain mapping. Businesses are actively leveraging technology to address trade challenges and drive growth. This highlights the increasing importance of technology in navigating the complexities of modern supply chains and achieving strategic objectives.

Class 8 Truck Backlog Reaches Decade High Straining Logistics

Class 8 Truck Backlog Reaches Decade High Straining Logistics

Recent data shows Class 8 truck backlogs at a decade high, highlighting logistics and supply chain bottlenecks. Multiple factors, including economic recovery, infrastructure stimulus, and e-commerce growth, are driving demand, while capacity constraints exacerbate supply-demand imbalances. Order backlogs lead to delivery delays and increased costs. Calls are being made to increase capacity, optimize supply chains, and encourage technological innovation to address the challenges and seize opportunities presented by the surge in demand.