US Intermodal Growth Slows in August Amid Trade Uncertainty

US Intermodal Growth Slows in August Amid Trade Uncertainty

According to the Intermodal Association of North America, intermodal volume growth slowed in August, but remained positive for the first eight months. Tariff policies have significantly impacted shipping patterns, with companies front-loading shipments, leading to a flattening of the peak season. Despite ongoing uncertainties, the intermodal network is currently operating smoothly. The anticipation of increased tariffs prompted businesses to accelerate their shipping schedules, artificially inflating volumes in earlier months and potentially dampening traditional peak season activity.

02/04/2026 Logistics
Read More
US Rail Freight Gains Offset by Intermodal Declines

US Rail Freight Gains Offset by Intermodal Declines

For the week of October 18, 2025, U.S. rail freight showed mixed results: carloads increased slightly by 0.3%, driven by gains in nonmetallic minerals, while grain and coal declined. Intermodal volume decreased by 4.8%, possibly due to port congestion. Year-to-date figures still indicate growth. The rail industry needs to adapt to market changes, strengthen cooperation, and achieve sustainable development.

02/04/2026 Logistics
Read More
US Rail Freight Declines As Economic Conditions Shift

US Rail Freight Declines As Economic Conditions Shift

U.S. rail freight and intermodal volumes decreased year-over-year, but cumulative volumes for the year remained higher. Declines were seen in carloads of commodities such as automobiles and coal. The railway industry needs to improve efficiency to address these challenges and maintain growth. While facing headwinds, the overall positive year-to-date performance suggests underlying strength in the rail freight sector despite specific commodity weaknesses and the need for operational improvements.

02/04/2026 Logistics
Read More
US Rail Freight Declines Amid Industry Shifts

US Rail Freight Declines Amid Industry Shifts

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows that US rail freight and intermodal traffic declined year-over-year in late October, but detailed data reveals growth in some commodity categories. Year-to-date cumulative data still shows an upward trend. Rail freight companies need to strengthen infrastructure construction, optimize operation and management, expand business areas, and embrace technological innovation and sustainable development. This requires a strategic approach to navigate current challenges and capitalize on emerging opportunities within the evolving logistics landscape.

02/04/2026 Logistics
Read More
US Rail Freight Dips in Late October Still Up Yearly

US Rail Freight Dips in Late October Still Up Yearly

US rail freight volume declined in late October, but year-to-date totals still show growth. Decreases were seen in carload, coal, and grain shipments, while commodities like metallic ores experienced increases. Macroeconomic factors are influencing the market, and infrastructure investments present opportunities. Overall freight volume reflects the current economic climate and highlights the fluctuating demand across different commodity sectors within the rail industry. The impact of intermodal transport also plays a role in these shifts.

02/04/2026 Logistics
Read More
US Rail Freight Volumes Decline in October Amid Strong Annual Growth

US Rail Freight Volumes Decline in October Amid Strong Annual Growth

US rail freight volumes have recently declined, yet cumulative year-to-date figures show growth. Performance varies across different commodity categories. Factors such as the macroeconomic environment warrant attention to understand future development trends. Monitoring these aspects is crucial for grasping the overall trajectory of rail freight and its impact on the US economy.

02/04/2026 Logistics
Read More
US Rail Freight Carloads Flat Intermodal Gains

US Rail Freight Carloads Flat Intermodal Gains

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail carloads increased slightly by 0.002% in the first week of October, while intermodal volume rose by 6.7% year-over-year. Year-to-date, carloads are up 2.1% and intermodal volume is up 3.6%. The report reveals market adjustments to changing conditions and highlights the need for the rail industry to seize opportunities amidst challenges. Innovation, technology, and collaboration are crucial for achieving sustainable development in the railway sector.

02/04/2026 Logistics
Read More
US Rail Freight Growth Mixed in November YTD Up

US Rail Freight Growth Mixed in November YTD Up

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows that for the week ending November 1st, U.S. rail freight and intermodal traffic decreased year-over-year, but cumulative volumes for the year remain positive. Increased shipments of grain and metallic ores were observed, while coal and motor vehicle shipments declined, reflecting economic restructuring and changing market demands. Railroad companies need to pay attention to these structural shifts and proactively address the challenges they present. This data provides insights into the current economic landscape and the evolving role of rail freight.

02/04/2026 Logistics
Read More
US Rail Freight Mixed Grain Metals Up Autos Intermodal Down

US Rail Freight Mixed Grain Metals Up Autos Intermodal Down

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight volume saw a slight year-over-year decrease in early November. However, grain and metals shipments bucked the trend, showing growth, while coal and automotive transport declined. Intermodal business also faced challenges. Year-to-date figures still indicate overall growth. Railroad companies need to adapt to market changes and focus on key factors such as economic growth, energy policies, supply chain management, technological innovation, and infrastructure investment to maintain a competitive edge.

02/04/2026 Logistics
Read More
US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads but Loses in Intermodal

US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads but Loses in Intermodal

For the week of November 29, 2025, U.S. rail freight showed a mixed performance. Carload traffic increased by 4.3% year-over-year, driven by higher demand for coal, nonmetallic minerals, and grain. Intermodal traffic decreased by 6.5% year-over-year, potentially due to port congestion and increased competition. Year-to-date figures indicate overall growth in rail freight, but structural adjustments pose ongoing challenges. The increase in carload traffic suggests strong demand in specific commodity sectors, while the decline in intermodal volume warrants further investigation into contributing factors.

02/04/2026 Logistics
Read More