US Rail Freight Coal Chemicals Rise As Intermodal Slows

US Rail Freight Coal Chemicals Rise As Intermodal Slows

US rail freight saw a slight increase in March, with carload traffic up 1.1%, while intermodal traffic decreased by 5.7%. Year-to-date, carload traffic has increased by 3%, but intermodal volume has fallen by 7.1%. This indicates a mixed performance in the rail freight sector, with traditional carload shipments showing positive growth, while intermodal transportation continues to struggle. The overall impact on the supply chain remains to be seen, as these trends may reflect broader economic shifts.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Slumps in May Amid Economic Uncertainty

US Rail Freight Slumps in May Amid Economic Uncertainty

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows a year-over-year decline in U.S. rail freight and intermodal volumes in May, reflecting a mixed economic picture. Performance varied across sectors, with some industries recovering while grain and metals shipments decreased. Year-to-date freight volumes showed slight growth, but intermodal remained weak. Factors like global economic slowdown, supply chain disruptions, and volatile energy prices impact the freight market. Future challenges require increased investment and improved efficiency.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Gains Offset by Declining Container Volumes

US Rail Freight Gains Offset by Declining Container Volumes

Recent US rail freight data reveals a slight increase in traditional carload traffic, primarily driven by coal, grain, and automotive shipments. However, container and trailer volumes experienced a minor decline, potentially reflecting a global trade slowdown and supply chain issues. Year-to-date figures further confirm this trend, suggesting a cautiously optimistic outlook for the US economy, but with lingering risks. The mixed performance highlights the complex interplay of domestic demand and international trade impacting the rail sector.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Rises in Carloads Dips in Intermodal

US Rail Freight Rises in Carloads Dips in Intermodal

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail carload volume increased by 3.4% for the week ending August 27th, primarily driven by growth in coal, grain, and motor vehicle shipments. However, intermodal volume decreased by 0.3%. Cumulative carload volume for the first 34 weeks of 2022 saw a slight increase of 0.1%, while intermodal volume declined by 5.3%. Macroeconomic factors, supply chain disruptions, and energy market fluctuations are contributing factors. Rail freight faces both challenges and opportunities.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Rises Slightly As Intermodal Declines

US Rail Freight Rises Slightly As Intermodal Declines

According to the Association of American Railroads, for the week ending August 20, U.S. rail carloads increased by 2.9% year-over-year, while intermodal volume decreased by 2.4%. Year-to-date carloads are roughly flat compared to last year, but intermodal volume is down 5.5%. Overall, North American rail freight has seen slight growth, but continues to face challenges from global economic slowdown and supply chain disruptions. Railroad companies need to innovate to address these challenges and seize opportunities.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Volumes Decline Amid Demand Concerns

US Rail Freight Volumes Decline Amid Demand Concerns

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows a year-over-year decline in US rail freight and intermodal volumes. This article delves into the underlying causes, including economic slowdown, supply chain bottlenecks, and energy transition. It explores the impact on the logistics industry, encompassing railroad companies, trucking firms, ports, and freight forwarders. Finally, the article examines the challenges and opportunities facing rail freight, and discusses how the industry should respond to navigate the evolving landscape.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Dips in Container Volume

US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Dips in Container Volume

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows a significant recent increase in U.S. rail carload traffic, primarily driven by coal and minerals. Container traffic, however, has slightly decreased, potentially due to global supply chain challenges. Year-to-date, overall freight volume remains on a downward trend. North American rail performance generally surpasses that of the U.S., with Mexico experiencing strong growth. The rail freight market faces a mixed landscape of challenges and opportunities moving forward.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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Manhattan Associates Launches Aidriven Logistics Management System

Manhattan Associates Launches Aidriven Logistics Management System

Manhattan introduces a cloud-native TMS, boasting an 80% improvement in optimization speed. Leveraging machine learning, the system efficiently manages transportation, reduces costs, and enhances competitiveness. This next-generation TMS provides real-time visibility and control across the entire transportation network, enabling businesses to make smarter decisions and improve overall supply chain performance. Its cloud-based architecture ensures scalability and flexibility to adapt to evolving business needs, driving significant value for organizations seeking to optimize their logistics operations.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Decline Points to Economic Slowdown

US Rail Freight Decline Points to Economic Slowdown

Recent data from the Association of American Railroads reveals a decline in both U.S. rail freight and intermodal volumes, signaling weakening economic demand. Mixed performance across specific commodity categories highlights shifts in the economic structure. Businesses should closely monitor market dynamics, optimize supply chain management, diversify operations, and embrace digital transformation to navigate these challenges. The decrease in freight volume serves as an indicator of a potential economic slowdown, requiring proactive adaptation from logistics and related industries.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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E2open CEO Highlights Key Logistics Trends for Resilience

E2open CEO Highlights Key Logistics Trends for Resilience

E2open CEO Michael Farlekas provides insights into three key trends impacting logistics: freight economics adjustments, the effect of declining imports on ports, and supply chain diversification and resilience. He emphasizes the importance of leveraging data analytics and technological innovation to build more efficient, agile, and resilient supply chains. This approach enables businesses to adapt to market fluctuations and embrace the new normal in the logistics industry, ensuring they are well-prepared for future challenges and opportunities.

02/12/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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