US Rail Freight and Intermodal Volumes Increase Despite Economic Challenges

US Rail Freight and Intermodal Volumes Increase Despite Economic Challenges

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight and intermodal volume increased year-over-year for the week ending March 20, but growth slowed. Freight volume performance varied across commodities, while intermodal was constrained by port congestion. Cumulative data presents a mixed picture, and the full-year trend remains to be seen. The rail transport industry faces challenges such as aging infrastructure and labor shortages, but also opportunities from economic recovery and environmental policies. Overall performance needs further observation.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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Global Supply Chain Disruptions Prolong Lead Times for Businesses

Global Supply Chain Disruptions Prolong Lead Times for Businesses

The global supply chain faces severe challenges, with lead times reaching record highs and accelerating due to port congestion, raw material shortages, and labor shortages. Companies are actively responding by exploring alternative ports, using air freight instead of sea freight, and planning ahead. Labor shortage is the most significant challenge, with unsustainable price levels. It is recommended that companies strengthen risk management, diversify suppliers, optimize inventory, and embrace digital transformation to mitigate these disruptions and build resilience in the face of ongoing uncertainty.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Import Surge Strains Supply Chains Ahead of Holidays

US Import Surge Strains Supply Chains Ahead of Holidays

Panjiva data indicates strong US imports continued in February, but port congestion, stimulus policies, and holiday season demand create uncertainty. Retailers need to monitor market dynamics, adapt flexibly, address supply chain challenges, and seize opportunities. The sustained import strength is tempered by ongoing logistical bottlenecks and economic factors that could impact future performance. Companies must remain vigilant and proactive to navigate the evolving landscape and maintain a competitive edge in the market. Understanding these complexities is crucial for effective planning and decision-making.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Air Freight Preclearance Speeds Customs Enhances Supply Chains

Air Freight Preclearance Speeds Customs Enhances Supply Chains

International air freight pre-clearance significantly reduces waiting times at the destination port and improves logistics efficiency by moving the customs clearance process forward. This article provides an in-depth analysis of the core concepts, operational processes, applicable scenarios, and practical key points of pre-clearance. It aims to help you fully utilize this tool and gain a competitive advantage in the market. By understanding the nuances of pre-clearance, businesses can optimize their supply chains and enhance customer satisfaction.

01/15/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Guide to Fixing Air Waybill Errors in Crossborder Ecommerce

Guide to Fixing Air Waybill Errors in Crossborder Ecommerce

This article addresses the issue of waybill information errors in international air freight for cross-border e-commerce. It provides a detailed guide to remediation, including initiating a modification request promptly, cooperating with verification and confirming costs, confirming revised information, and synchronizing with relevant parties. Specific precautions are given for common errors related to recipient information, destination port information, product name and value. The aim is to help sellers minimize potential losses caused by these errors in international air freight shipments.

01/19/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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US Import Boom Driven by Tariff Worries Retail Stockpiling

US Import Boom Driven by Tariff Worries Retail Stockpiling

The National Retail Federation reports that potential tariff hikes by the Trump administration are driving a surge in US imports, despite a port labor agreement. Retailers are stockpiling goods to avoid higher costs, leading to increased import volumes. The report forecasts that import volumes in the coming months will be influenced by various factors, including Lunar New Year factory shutdowns. Retailers are trying to mitigate potential cost increases before the new tariffs take effect, impacting supply chains and import patterns.

01/22/2026 Logistics
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US Imports Rise Despite Labor Disruptions Holiday Sales Strong

US Imports Rise Despite Labor Disruptions Holiday Sales Strong

Despite brief labor disruptions at US East Coast and Gulf Coast ports, US import volume is projected to continue growing. The Port Tracker report indicates retailers are optimistic about future sales, with early inventory buildup being a primary driver of this increase. Businesses are advised to plan ahead, diversify risks, stay informed about industry trends, and establish long-term partnerships with reliable logistics providers. This proactive approach is crucial for preparing for the upcoming peak retail season and mitigating potential supply chain challenges.

01/22/2026 Logistics
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US Trucking Market Slows Amid Seasonal Downturn DAT Index

US Trucking Market Slows Amid Seasonal Downturn DAT Index

The November DAT Truckload Capacity Index reveals a mixed performance in the US freight market, influenced by seasonality and Thanksgiving. The index showed fluctuating capacity, with spot rates for refrigerated trucks increasing while contract rates declined across the board. Experts believe March will be a crucial turning point for the market, emphasizing the need to monitor the potential risk of port strikes. The overall outlook remains uncertain, requiring careful observation of key economic indicators and geopolitical developments impacting the transportation sector.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Chinagermany Sea Route Efficiency Gains Focus Amid Key Nodes

Chinagermany Sea Route Efficiency Gains Focus Amid Key Nodes

This paper analyzes the China-Germany maritime routes from a data analyst's perspective, examining distances, key nodes, advantages, and challenges. Through data-driven analysis, it proposes strategies to optimize port operations, select the best routes, strengthen supply chain collaboration, and leverage technological innovation. The aim is to improve route efficiency and promote trade development between China and Germany. The analysis considers factors impacting transit times and costs, ultimately seeking to enhance the overall logistics performance of the China-Germany sea freight corridor.

01/23/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Singapore Sea Freight Firms Focus on Cutting Transit Times

Singapore Sea Freight Firms Focus on Cutting Transit Times

This article delves into the key factors affecting the transit time of Singapore sea freight lines, including route distance, vessel type, port efficiency, customs clearance speed, and weather conditions, providing reference transit times for various destinations. It also shares practical acceleration strategies, such as optimizing loading and unloading operations and simplifying customs clearance procedures, to help you improve logistics efficiency and gain a market advantage. Understanding these factors and implementing these strategies can significantly reduce shipping times and improve overall supply chain performance.

01/23/2026 Logistics
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