US Rail Freight Intermodal Gains Offset Coal Decline

US Rail Freight Intermodal Gains Offset Coal Decline

The U.S. rail freight market showed a mixed picture for the week ending February 10th. Intermodal traffic performed strongly with an 11.1% year-over-year increase, while traditional rail carloads declined by 2.5%. Coal shipments continued to be weak, decreasing by 7,264 carloads year-over-year. Year-to-date figures reveal a 6.5% rise in intermodal volume and a 6.4% drop in rail carloads, reflecting the evolving U.S. economic structure and changes in supply chain patterns.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Sees December Surge in Carloads Intermodal Traffic

US Rail Freight Sees December Surge in Carloads Intermodal Traffic

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows that U.S. rail freight and intermodal volumes both increased year-over-year in mid-December. Carload traffic saw significant growth with all ten commodity categories rising. For the full year, carload traffic slightly increased, but intermodal volume remained down compared to the previous year. Analysts attribute the year-end growth to economic resilience, energy demand, and easing supply chains. Future trends will depend on macroeconomic conditions and policy changes.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Shifts Autos Petroleum Rise As Coal Falls

US Rail Freight Shifts Autos Petroleum Rise As Coal Falls

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight traffic diverged in the week ending May 9th. Traditional freight carloads declined year-over-year, while motor vehicles and petroleum products showed strong performance. Coal continued to face pressure. Intermodal traffic increased year-over-year, but the growth rate slowed. Year-to-date, traditional freight carloads have slightly decreased, while intermodal traffic has grown. Railroad companies need to actively address challenges and seize opportunities to achieve sustainable development.

02/12/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Dips in Intermodal

US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Dips in Intermodal

According to the Association of American Railroads, the U.S. rail freight market showed divergence in the week ending August 7th. Carload traffic increased by 6.3% year-over-year, primarily driven by strong demand for metallic ores and coal. However, intermodal volume decreased by 0.6% year-over-year, potentially due to port congestion and truck driver shortages. While year-to-date figures remain positive, supply chain challenges and industrial restructuring remain key areas of focus moving forward.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Carload Rises As Intermodal Declines

US Rail Freight Carload Rises As Intermodal Declines

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight traffic showed divergence in the week ending August 14. Carload traffic increased by 5.7% year-over-year, driven by demand for commodities like coal and metallic ores. Intermodal traffic decreased by 3% year-over-year, constrained by port congestion and other factors. Year-to-date figures show carload and intermodal traffic up 9% and 14.6% respectively. Railroad companies need to adopt differentiated strategies to address the changing market dynamics.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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Guide to FCL Export Costs in Ocean Freight

Guide to FCL Export Costs in Ocean Freight

This article provides a detailed analysis of various costs associated with FCL (Full Container Load) shipping, including ocean freight, port handling charges, and fuel surcharges. It also addresses the specific requirements for shipping dangerous goods. Furthermore, the article offers guidance on selecting FCL shipping providers, aiming to help foreign trade companies reduce costs and improve efficiency. The information is designed to assist businesses in navigating the complexities of FCL export and optimizing their shipping strategies.

08/22/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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The Relationship Between Freight Rate and Shipping Cost: Key Connections and Market Impacts

The Relationship Between Freight Rate and Shipping Cost: Key Connections and Market Impacts

This article explores the definitions of freight rates and shipping costs and their interrelationship. It indicates that the freight rate represents the price of transportation labor, which directly influences the supply and demand dynamics of the shipping market. In contrast, the shipping cost is the compensation paid by the shipper to the carrier for completing the transportation of goods. The calculation of shipping costs relies on the product of freight rates and transportation volume.

07/21/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Understanding The Difference Between Delivery Notification And Shipping Order

Understanding The Difference Between Delivery Notification And Shipping Order

This article elaborates on the distinctions between the Warehouse Entry Notice and the Shipping Order (S/O) in the field of international freight forwarding. The S/O is primarily used for full container shipping, issued by the shipping company or its agent, serving as a receipt for container pickup and shipment. In contrast, the Warehouse Entry Notice is applied in less than container load shipping, issued by the freight forwarder or their warehouse.

07/18/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Temu Expands Globally Shipping Tips and Pitfalls to Avoid

Temu Expands Globally Shipping Tips and Pitfalls to Avoid

This article provides a detailed analysis of the shipping process for Pinduoduo's overseas version, Temu. It covers aspects such as selecting a consolidation company, packaging goods, and paying for shipping. The article also offers a consolidated shipping checklist and important considerations to help you navigate Temu's global expansion smoothly and avoid common issues in cross-border logistics. Learn how to optimize your Temu shipping experience and ensure efficient delivery to your international customers.

01/06/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Australias Luxury Goods See Rising Demand in China

Australias Luxury Goods See Rising Demand in China

This article provides a comprehensive guide to direct shipping Australian luxury goods to China, covering key aspects such as shipping method selection, package declaration techniques, packaging precautions, shipping procedures, and customs duties. It also answers frequently asked questions, aiming to help readers safely and efficiently ship Australian luxury goods back to China. The guide focuses on minimizing risks and maximizing efficiency throughout the entire process, ensuring a smooth and compliant shipping experience.

01/26/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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