US Rail Freight Sees Mixed Results Carloads Rise Intermodal Falls

US Rail Freight Sees Mixed Results Carloads Rise Intermodal Falls

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail carloads increased by 2.9% year-over-year for the week ending August 20th, driven primarily by coal and grain shipments. However, intermodal traffic decreased by 2.4% year-over-year, with a year-to-date decline of 5.5%. While overall North American rail freight volume saw a slight increase, intermodal transportation also faced a decline. This divergence in the rail freight market reflects the complexity of the economic situation, highlighting the need for improved efficiency and collaboration to address future challenges.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Demand Fluctuates Amid Economic Uncertainty

US Rail Freight Demand Fluctuates Amid Economic Uncertainty

Data from the Association of American Railroads reveals a mixed picture for US rail freight for the week ending July 23rd. Carload traffic saw a slight increase, while intermodal traffic declined year-over-year. Year-to-date figures reflect a similar trend. Overall North American rail freight also faces challenges. Moving forward, rail freight needs to navigate economic downturns and supply chain bottlenecks while capitalizing on opportunities presented by infrastructure investments and the growing emphasis on green initiatives. The industry's performance reflects broader economic trends and the evolving landscape of freight transportation.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Slumps Auto Shipments Rise Amid Decline

US Rail Freight Slumps Auto Shipments Rise Amid Decline

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows a decline in both U.S. rail freight and intermodal traffic for the week ending December 12th, signaling potential economic headwinds. While shipments of motor vehicles and parts provided a bright spot, overall freight volume decreased. Year-to-date figures reveal a decline in total carloads and a slower growth rate in intermodal volume. Rail freight volume is often considered an economic indicator, suggesting the industry faces both challenges and opportunities in the future. The overall trend indicates a cautious outlook for the economy.

02/12/2026 Logistics
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ATA Economist Analyzes Freight Industry Trends and Risks

ATA Economist Analyzes Freight Industry Trends and Risks

Bob Costello, Chief Economist at the American Trucking Associations, provided an in-depth analysis of future trends in the freight economy at the RILA Supply Chain Conference. He believes that while economic growth will slow, the overall economy will continue to grow, delaying the risk of recession. He also highlighted concerns about tight labor markets, a stressed housing market, and trade frictions. Costello emphasized that companies should focus on technological changes, diversification, and risk management to navigate future challenges and maintain a competitive edge in the evolving freight landscape.

02/12/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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WCO Calls for Global Trade Collaboration Digital Shift

WCO Calls for Global Trade Collaboration Digital Shift

The Secretary General of the World Customs Organization (WCO) has called for enhanced international cooperation and digital transformation to address the challenges posed by the pandemic and build a more resilient global trade system. He emphasized the crucial role of customs in facilitating the cross-border flow of vaccines and essential goods, and encouraged leveraging data and technological innovation to improve management efficiency and service delivery. The WCO will continue to support its member customs administrations in their digital transformation efforts, contributing to the recovery of global trade.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Aviation Industry Struggles with New Dangerous Goods Rules

Aviation Industry Struggles with New Dangerous Goods Rules

The air cargo industry faces increasingly complex challenges in complying with dangerous goods transportation regulations. With cumbersome rules and a lack of standardization, the industry needs to strengthen collaboration to simplify regulations, develop standards, and promote training. Embracing digital transformation and sustainable development is also crucial. This will build a safer and more efficient future for air cargo by streamlining processes, ensuring adherence to best practices, and fostering a culture of safety and responsibility throughout the supply chain. The focus should be on creating a more harmonized and transparent system.

01/20/2026 Logistics
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Global Aviation Body IATA Elevates Flight Instructor Standards

Global Aviation Body IATA Elevates Flight Instructor Standards

IATA's CBTA Flight Instructor Training program aims to equip flight standards setters with competency-based training approaches, enhancing their ability to train and assess flight instructors. The course covers core topics such as CBTA fundamentals, instructor competencies, and Threat and Error Management. Through scenario simulations and practical exercises, participants will master assessment techniques and facilitation methods. This ultimately fosters more resilient pilots and improves overall flight safety levels. The training focuses on practical application and aims to cultivate instructors capable of developing pilots who can effectively manage real-world challenges.

01/20/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Spain Aims to Boost Economy Through Air Transport Reforms

Spain Aims to Boost Economy Through Air Transport Reforms

The Spanish air transport industry significantly contributes to the national economy but faces challenges including airspace efficiency, airport capacity, and charges. This report recommends enhancing Spain's aviation competitiveness through a national airspace strategy, ensuring sufficient airport capacity, developing multimodal transportation, and fostering air cargo development. These measures aim to boost economic growth by improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the aviation sector, addressing existing bottlenecks, and promoting seamless integration with other modes of transport. Ultimately, a more competitive aviation industry will lead to greater economic prosperity for Spain.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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LA and Long Beach Ports See January Surge Amid Economic Recovery

LA and Long Beach Ports See January Surge Amid Economic Recovery

Los Angeles and Long Beach ports experienced a significant surge in throughput in January, driven by pre-holiday restocking and the recovering US economy. However, potential risks such as the Red Sea crisis and Panama Canal congestion remain a concern. Both ports are actively addressing these challenges, aiming to regain market share and achieve sustainable growth. They are implementing strategies to mitigate disruptions and ensure smooth operations despite the global uncertainties impacting supply chains and trade flows. The ports' performance is a key indicator of overall economic health.

01/20/2026 Logistics
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US Port Investments Face Infrastructure Hurdles Opportunities

US Port Investments Face Infrastructure Hurdles Opportunities

This paper provides an in-depth analysis of the opportunities and challenges facing US ports. It identifies strategic shifts in global supply chains, infrastructure deficiencies, and funding constraints as key factors impacting port development. The article emphasizes the importance of interconnectivity and offers recommendations on port financing and investment returns, aiming to provide investors with a comprehensive guide to US port investment. It explores how these factors influence port efficiency and competitiveness in the evolving global trade landscape. The guide offers insights into navigating the complexities of port investment.

01/20/2026 Port Encyclopedia
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