US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads but Loses in Container Volume

US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads but Loses in Container Volume

The latest report from the Association of American Railroads reveals a mixed picture of the US rail freight market. For the week ending December 6th, carload traffic increased by 1.7% year-over-year, while container traffic decreased by 5.4%. Year-to-date figures show a 1.8% increase in both carload and container volume. The report highlights the contrasting trends within the rail freight sector, analyzes the underlying causes, and forecasts future developments. This provides valuable insights for business operations and economic development in the US.

01/17/2026 Logistics
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US Container Imports Jump in February As Supply Chain Strains Persist

US Container Imports Jump in February As Supply Chain Strains Persist

Panjiva reports a 6.9% year-over-year increase in US container imports for February, but a 5.5% decrease compared to January. However, the daily average import volume reached a new high. Energy imports surged, while IT imports declined. Experts remain uncertain about the full-year trend, emphasizing the need to monitor inflation, consumer spending habits, and geopolitical factors. Shipping companies are adjusting their strategies to address future challenges and uncertainties in the global trade landscape.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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Port of New York and Jersey Delays Container Fee Amid Congestion

Port of New York and Jersey Delays Container Fee Amid Congestion

The Port of New York and New Jersey has suspended the implementation of container dwell fees due to the need to refine tariff provisions. This decision aims to alleviate port congestion, which has been exacerbated by a surge in throughput and a backlog of empty containers. The dwell fees were originally intended to accelerate cargo turnover but faced opposition from shipping lines. The port is now collaborating with shipping companies to identify more effective measures for easing port congestion and exploring innovative solutions.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Sees Mixed Trends Carloads Drop Container Growth Slows

US Rail Freight Sees Mixed Trends Carloads Drop Container Growth Slows

Data from the Association of American Railroads reveals a divergence in US rail freight: carload traffic is declining year-over-year, primarily due to weak coal demand; container traffic growth is slowing, potentially signaling cooling consumer demand. This analysis examines key factors influencing rail freight volume and explores future opportunities and challenges for the industry. The slowdown in container traffic raises concerns about the overall economic outlook, as it often serves as a leading indicator of consumer spending.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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US Container Imports Near Record Highs Ahead of Tariffs Peak Season

US Container Imports Near Record Highs Ahead of Tariffs Peak Season

U.S. container imports are nearing historical peaks, driven by tariff policy adjustments and seasonal factors. China's import share is declining, intensifying competition between East and West Coast ports. Businesses should strengthen market analysis, optimize supply chain layouts, enhance operational efficiency, and embrace digital transformation to address future challenges. The shifting dynamics require proactive strategies to mitigate risks and capitalize on emerging opportunities in the evolving global trade landscape. Careful monitoring of policy changes and port performance is crucial for informed decision-making.

01/30/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Rail Freight Container Gains Offset Cargo Declines in September 2020

US Rail Freight Container Gains Offset Cargo Declines in September 2020

U.S. rail freight data for the first week of September 2020 shows strong container traffic, up 24.8% year-over-year. Traditional carload traffic declined by 6.9% compared to the same period last year. The decline was mainly due to decreased shipments of coal, nonmetallic minerals, and metallic ores, while grain, and motor vehicles & parts saw increases. Year-to-date figures indicate declines in both carload and container traffic, reflecting the ongoing impact of the pandemic.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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SW Shipping Expands to Container Shipping with New Southeast Asia Route

SW Shipping Expands to Container Shipping with New Southeast Asia Route

South Korean dry bulk carrier SW Shipping plans to enter the container shipping industry by launching a Korea-Vietnam route. Driven by high profits in container shipping, this move aims to gain experience through near-sea services, with future expansion to trans-Pacific trade envisioned. Facing market challenges, SW Shipping is actively seeking financial support and developing a sound operational strategy. The company hopes to establish itself in the competitive container market through this initial regional route.

02/11/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Texas Floods Disrupt Global Dry Bulk Trade Strain Supply Chains

Texas Floods Disrupt Global Dry Bulk Trade Strain Supply Chains

The flooding in Texas has disrupted dry bulk transportation at the ports of Corpus Christi, Houston, and Galveston, leading to ship backlogs and transportation delays. This is expected to increase regional freight rates and impact supply chain stability. Market participants need to enhance their preparedness to handle future uncertainties and potential economic fluctuations.

08/06/2025 Logistics
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Understanding the Release and Handover Process of International Shipping Containers

Understanding the Release and Handover Process of International Shipping Containers

This article provides a detailed analysis of container release and handover procedures in international shipping, emphasizing the basis for handover, division of responsibilities, and specific formalities for import, export, and empty containers. Through comprehensive explanations of processes for container agents, cargo parties, and carriers, it aims to give readers a thorough understanding of the importance and operational requirements of container operations in international shipping.

07/15/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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