North American Rail Freight Carloads Rise Intermodal Declines

North American Rail Freight Carloads Rise Intermodal Declines

For the week ending November 8, 2025, U.S. rail carload traffic saw a slight increase of 0.1%, while intermodal units decreased by 8.7% year-over-year. Year-to-date figures show carloads and intermodal up 1.8% and 2.5% respectively, but the single-week data reflects pressures from economic slowdown, supply chain challenges, and energy transition. Rail freight needs to embrace innovation and strengthen collaboration to navigate these challenges and seize growth opportunities.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Intermodal Volumes Decline in Late September

US Rail Freight Intermodal Volumes Decline in Late September

For the week ending September 20, 2025, US rail freight volume decreased by 1.8% year-over-year, and intermodal volume decreased by 2.5%. Grain and metallic ores shipments increased, while coal, miscellaneous carloads, and nonmetallic minerals declined. Despite the recent downturn, year-to-date rail freight volume is up 2.2%, and intermodal volume is up 3.6% compared to 2024. Macroeconomic conditions, industry-specific factors, and supply chain issues can all influence rail transport volumes.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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Global Air Freight Fuel Surcharges A Costsaving Guide

Global Air Freight Fuel Surcharges A Costsaving Guide

International air freight fuel surcharge calculations are complex, primarily based on chargeable weight or a percentage of the base freight rate. Additional charges may apply in special circumstances, such as peak seasons or the use of sustainable aviation fuel. Understanding these calculation methods helps foreign trade and cross-border e-commerce sellers choose more economical shipping solutions. This knowledge allows businesses to better manage their logistics costs and optimize their supply chain for international shipments.

02/04/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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TMS Adoption Boosts Logistics Efficiency Reduces Costs

TMS Adoption Boosts Logistics Efficiency Reduces Costs

Transportation Management Systems (TMS) are crucial for improving logistics efficiency and reducing costs. By connecting to a global carrier network, simplifying cross-border compliance, and providing data analytics, TMS helps businesses optimize transportation processes, improve customer satisfaction, and increase profitability. In today's competitive market, adopting a TMS early is a smart move. It streamlines operations, provides real-time visibility, and empowers informed decision-making, ultimately leading to a more agile and cost-effective supply chain.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Container Imports Surge on Strong China Demand Descartes

US Container Imports Surge on Strong China Demand Descartes

A recent Descartes report reveals a significant increase in total U.S. container imports, driven by rising imports from China. January saw a 7.9% month-over-month and 9.9% year-over-year increase in U.S. import container volume. A 14.9% surge in exports from China to the U.S. was a key contributor. The report also highlights ongoing challenges to the global supply chain, including the Panama Canal drought and Middle East conflicts, both impacting transit times.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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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.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Businesses Consumers Hit Hard by Trade War Tariffs

US Businesses Consumers Hit Hard by Trade War Tariffs

The "Tariffs Damage America's Heartland" report reveals that the trade war has cost U.S. consumers and businesses an additional $38 billion in tariffs. Tariffs not only increase prices and hurt exports, but also lead to supply chain reshaping and investment decision disruptions. Experts call for resolving trade disputes through dialogue and negotiation to maintain global economic stability. The report highlights the significant economic costs and negative consequences of the trade war on the American economy.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Oakland Port Hit by Shipping Cancellations As Trade Slows

Oakland Port Hit by Shipping Cancellations As Trade Slows

The Port of Oakland warns that shipping cancellations could lead to a significant drop in cargo volume and pose a threat to export trade. The pandemic has accelerated supply chain restructuring, requiring ports to be flexible and adaptable. Embracing digital transformation and strengthening collaboration are crucial for maintaining competitiveness in the 'new normal'. The port needs to proactively address these challenges to mitigate potential negative impacts and ensure smooth operations for its stakeholders.

02/05/2026 Logistics
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Israelhamas War Disrupts Global Trade and Supply Chains

Israelhamas War Disrupts Global Trade and Supply Chains

The escalating Israel-Hamas conflict is disrupting global trade, causing shipping disruptions, increased freight rates, and delivery delays. Businesses need to closely monitor the situation, develop contingency plans, strengthen risk management, communicate with customers, and consider supply chain diversification to address uncertainty and ensure business stability. The conflict's impact on key shipping routes is creating bottlenecks and impacting the flow of goods worldwide, forcing companies to adapt and mitigate potential disruptions to their operations.

02/05/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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KK Super Mart Plans IPO for Southeast Asia Growth

KK Super Mart Plans IPO for Southeast Asia Growth

Malaysian convenience store chain KK Super Mart is planning an IPO, with an estimated valuation of $750 million. The company intends to issue over 25% of its total shares to leverage capital markets for expansion. Favorable global stock market conditions and the valuation advantages of emerging markets are attracting international investors, creating a conducive environment for the IPO. This IPO offers investors an opportunity to participate in the growth of the Southeast Asian retail market.

02/05/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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