US Rail Freight Volumes Drop in September Raising Economic Worries

US Rail Freight Volumes Drop in September Raising Economic Worries

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows that U.S. rail freight and intermodal traffic both declined year-over-year in the third week of September. Gains in grain and metallic ores were offset by decreases in coal, miscellaneous carloads, and nonmetallic minerals. Despite the recent downturn, year-to-date rail freight and intermodal traffic remain up compared to the same period last year. This suggests a mixed picture of the economy, with some sectors showing growth while others are experiencing contraction, as reflected in the varying commodity transport volumes.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Intermodal Freight Volumes Decline in October Amid Tariff Worries

US Intermodal Freight Volumes Decline in October Amid Tariff Worries

North American Intermodal Association data shows a 2% year-over-year decrease in U.S. intermodal freight volume in October 2025, ending months of consecutive growth. Key influencing factors include tariff policies, economic uncertainty, and industrial weakness. While cumulative freight volume for the year remains positive, the growth rate is slowing. The future intermodal market should focus on key factors such as tariffs, consumer spending, inventory levels, and capacity supply, while also strengthening innovation and international cooperation.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Sees Mixed Carload Container Trends in November

US Rail Freight Sees Mixed Carload Container Trends in November

U.S. rail freight traffic increased by 4.3%, driven by commodities like coal. However, container traffic decreased by 6.5%. Despite this decline in container volume, the cumulative freight and container volumes for the entire year still showed growth. This indicates a mixed performance in the rail freight sector, with overall positive growth offset by a decrease in container shipping, highlighting the influence of specific commodities on overall freight volume and serving as a potential economic indicator.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Gains Mask Intermodal Decline Amid Market Shift

US Rail Freight Gains Mask Intermodal Decline Amid Market Shift

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight showed mixed results for the week ending October 18th: carload originations slightly increased, but intermodal volume declined. While year-to-date figures remain positive, growth is slowing. Facing this market adjustment, railway companies need to strengthen infrastructure, optimize transportation organization, expand service offerings, and enhance technological innovation and collaboration to overcome challenges and seize opportunities.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Sees Mixed Results Carloads Up Intermodal Down

US Rail Freight Sees Mixed Results Carloads Up Intermodal Down

For the week ending November 8, 2025, US rail freight presented a mixed picture: carload traffic saw a slight increase, while intermodal traffic declined. Year-to-date figures indicate overall growth, but future development faces both opportunities and challenges. These are influenced by various factors including the macroeconomic environment, industry structure, and global trade. The fluctuations highlight the sensitivity of rail freight to broader economic trends and the ongoing evolution of supply chain dynamics. Further analysis is needed to understand the underlying drivers and predict future performance.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Rises in August on Chemicals Intermodal Demand

US Rail Freight Rises in August on Chemicals Intermodal Demand

US rail freight volume increased in August, driven by chemicals and minerals, while petroleum and grain declined. Looking long-term, economic recovery and infrastructure investment are expected to drive positive market trends. The growth in specific sectors highlights shifts in demand and production, reflecting broader economic activity. Despite declines in some commodities, the overall increase in rail freight suggests a resilient supply chain and continued industrial output. Further monitoring of these trends will be crucial for understanding the pace and direction of economic recovery.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Truckload Volume Falls but Rates Rise in September DAT

US Truckload Volume Falls but Rates Rise in September DAT

The US truckload freight market in September showed a mixed picture: volumes declined while rates slightly increased. The DAT Index indicated a simultaneous drop in freight volume and rise in rates, reflecting a balance between weak demand and capacity adjustments. Analyst Ken Adamo suggests the rate increase isn't demand-driven, posing challenges for the peak season. Smaller carriers may benefit from rising backhaul rates. Market participants need to closely monitor these dynamics and adapt their strategies accordingly. The situation calls for careful observation and flexible approaches in this evolving market.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Industrial Real Estate Booms As 3pls Expand for Ecommerce

US Industrial Real Estate Booms As 3pls Expand for Ecommerce

A CBRE report indicates that 3PLs dominated US industrial real estate leasing in the first half of 2025, while retail and e-commerce leasing activity declined. Companies are increasingly opting for outsourced logistics to reduce costs and improve efficiency. Experts predict that 3PL's market share will continue to expand, becoming the primary driver of large warehouse leasing. This trend highlights the growing importance of efficient supply chain management and the strategic role of 3PL providers in meeting the demands of a dynamic market.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Trucking Demand Slows As Rates Volumes Decline in July

US Trucking Demand Slows As Rates Volumes Decline in July

The US truckload freight market cooled down in late July, with both freight rates and volumes declining. The dry van market remained relatively stable, while the refrigerated market weakened due to decreased agricultural product transportation. The flatbed market reflected a slowdown in construction and manufacturing demand. Analysts recommend monitoring macroeconomic data, changes in industry demand, freight rate trends, and policy changes to navigate market adjustments. The overall market indicates a softening demand and requires close observation for potential further downturn.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Freight Market Slumps in July As Rates Volumes Decline

US Freight Market Slumps in July As Rates Volumes Decline

The US freight market experienced seasonal softness in late July, with both spot rates and freight volume declining. Dry van, refrigerated, and flatbed sectors were all affected. Weakness in agricultural shipments significantly contributed to the decreased demand for refrigerated trucks. Experts advise trucking companies to closely monitor market dynamics, improve efficiency, and reduce costs to navigate the challenges and capitalize on opportunities in the current environment. This proactive approach is crucial for maintaining profitability and competitiveness during this period of market downturn.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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