US Rail Freight Sees Mixed Trends Carloads Rise Containers Fall

US Rail Freight Sees Mixed Trends Carloads Rise Containers Fall

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight performance in late January showed divergence: carload volume increased by 3.3% year-over-year, primarily driven by increased shipments of nonmetallic minerals and coal. Container volume decreased by 6.7% year-over-year, reflecting macroeconomic uncertainty and supply chain adjustments. Total North American rail freight volume experienced a slight decrease. Looking ahead, economic recovery, supply chain resilience, sustainable development, and technological innovation will be key factors influencing rail freight trends.

01/28/2026 Logistics
Read More
Port of Virginia Boosts Capacity with 217M Crane Upgrade

Port of Virginia Boosts Capacity with 217M Crane Upgrade

The Port of Virginia is investing $217 million in automated stacking cranes to enhance throughput at Virginia International Gateway and Norfolk International Terminals, addressing the challenges posed by the Panama Canal expansion. This move signifies a trend towards port automation upgrades, promising increased efficiency, reduced costs, and a positive impact on the supply chain. The investment aims to modernize operations and solidify the Port of Virginia's position as a leading container port on the East Coast.

01/27/2026 Logistics
Read More
Ocean Alliance to Transform Global Shipping Industry

Ocean Alliance to Transform Global Shipping Industry

The 'Ocean Alliance,' comprised of four major shipping companies, plans to deploy 350 container ships, offering 40 East-West routes connecting 100 ports, aiming to reshape global trade patterns. Approved by the U.S., and awaiting approval from China and the EU, its establishment will enhance shipping efficiency, strengthen market competitiveness, and promote trade development. However, the alliance also faces challenges such as member coordination, market competition, and regulatory risks. Its impact on the global shipping industry will be significant.

01/28/2026 Logistics
Read More
Gothenburg Launches Direct Asia Shipping Route Boosting Nordic Trade

Gothenburg Launches Direct Asia Shipping Route Boosting Nordic Trade

The Port of Gothenburg welcomes a new direct service from CMA CGM, establishing a parallel structure of three direct routes to Asia and reinforcing its position as the leading Nordic shipping hub. This new route utilizes LNG-powered vessels, enhancing the port's green shipping capabilities. Increased Asian trade volumes have driven the Port of Gothenburg's container throughput to new heights. Moving forward, the port will continue to empower trade and economic development between the Nordic region and Asia.

01/27/2026 Logistics
Read More
Xiamens Transport Expansion Boosts Foreign Trade Growth

Xiamens Transport Expansion Boosts Foreign Trade Growth

During the 14th Five-Year Plan period, Xiamen has built an efficient transportation network through the rapid development of railways, ports, and aviation, strongly promoting foreign trade growth. The China-Europe Railway Express operates regularly, and the port's container throughput is expected to rank among the world's top. The total foreign trade volume remains in the top ten nationwide. In the future, Xiamen will continue to strengthen the construction of smart terminals to further enhance its foreign trade competitiveness.

01/28/2026 Logistics
Read More
Guide to LCL Shipping for US Exporters

Guide to LCL Shipping for US Exporters

This article provides an in-depth analysis of LCL (Less than Container Load) shipping processes, focusing on US dedicated line operations. It covers key stages including inquiry and booking, warehousing and customs declaration, loading and ocean freight, customs clearance and delivery. The article details important considerations for US dedicated lines, key factors in service provider selection, and solutions to common problems. It aims to help businesses efficiently and economically conduct LCL shipping to the United States.

01/28/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
Read More
Port of Virginia Deepens Channels for Megaships

Port of Virginia Deepens Channels for Megaships

The Port of Virginia is planning to deepen its channels to 55 feet to accommodate ultra-large container vessels. This move aims to enhance the port's competitiveness but faces uncertainties including economic risks, environmental challenges, and a global trade slowdown. The development of deep-water ports is a global race, and ports need to proceed cautiously, balancing risks and opportunities. The success of this project hinges on careful planning and adaptation to evolving global economic conditions.

01/29/2026 Port Encyclopedia
Read More
Uninsured Cargo Risks Rise Amid US Maritime Shipping Boom

Uninsured Cargo Risks Rise Amid US Maritime Shipping Boom

Ninety percent of ocean-shipped goods to the US are uninsured, highlighting a weak risk awareness in the industry. Misunderstandings of CIF/FOB terms, wishful thinking, and cost considerations are major contributing factors. The rise of ultra-large container ships exacerbates risk concentration, and industry volatility adds further uncertainty. Companies should prioritize risk management, dispel myths surrounding marine insurance, and choose appropriate insurance plans to safeguard their cargo. Proactive risk mitigation is crucial in today's volatile global shipping environment.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
North American Intermodal Volume Rises in Q3 on Domestic Demand

North American Intermodal Volume Rises in Q3 on Domestic Demand

The Intermodal Association of North America reported that intermodal volumes in Q3 grew nearly 5% year-over-year, driven primarily by domestic container shipping. Despite economic uncertainty, the intermodal market demonstrated resilience, although the growth rate was the slowest since 2009. Industry experts suggest that intermodal transportation is gaining market share from trucking and is expected to maintain steady growth in the future. The increase highlights the continued importance of intermodal solutions for efficient freight movement across North America.

01/29/2026 Logistics
Read More
Guide to US FCL Shipping Procedures and Costs

Guide to US FCL Shipping Procedures and Costs

This article provides a comprehensive analysis of the latest operational procedures for Full Container Load (FCL) shipping to the US. It details each step, from cargo preparation to final delivery, highlighting key considerations and precautions. Furthermore, it delves into the composition of shipping costs, including ocean freight, booking fees, and documentation fees. Practical advice on selecting shipping companies and improving shipping efficiency is also provided, helping businesses complete FCL shipping to the US efficiently and economically.

02/02/2026 Logistics
Read More