US Rail Freight Mixed in May Intermodal Gains Steady

US Rail Freight Mixed in May Intermodal Gains Steady

According to the latest data from the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight volume in May remained flat year-over-year, but intermodal traffic experienced strong growth. Intermodal transportation benefits from tight trucking capacity and corporate cost reduction demands, and is expected to maintain its growth momentum. The overall rail freight market reflects economic uncertainty. The industry needs to address challenges such as energy transition and manufacturing reshoring, while actively embracing technological innovation. The growth in intermodal offsets the weakness in other rail segments.

01/22/2026 Logistics
Read More
US Businesses Consumers Hit Hard by Trade War Tariffs

US Businesses Consumers Hit Hard by Trade War Tariffs

Data from the 'Tariffs Hurt the Heartland' organization reveals the negative impact of the US-China trade war on the US economy. American consumers and businesses have paid an additional $38 billion in tariffs. These tariffs have led to increased prices, decreased corporate profits, and disruptions to global trade patterns. Businesses should diversify supply chains and optimize production processes, while governments should reduce tariffs and provide subsidies to jointly address these challenges. The trade war's economic consequences necessitate collaborative solutions to mitigate its adverse effects.

Rail Merger Faces Union Opposition

Rail Merger Faces Union Opposition

The proposed $85 billion merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern faces significant hurdles due to opposition from two major unions representing over half of the workforce. The unions express concerns about potential job losses, increased workloads, and diminished bargaining power. With a ruling from the Surface Transportation Board imminent, the unions' resistance could prove to be a critical factor in determining the fate of the merger. Their opposition highlights the potential for labor disputes to significantly impact large-scale corporate consolidations in the railroad industry.

US Service Sector Expands Despite Economic Headwinds ISM

US Service Sector Expands Despite Economic Headwinds ISM

The latest ISM report indicates continued growth in the US services sector, albeit at a slower pace. The report highlights industry growth, changes in sub-indexes, corporate feedback, and expert analysis, emphasizing supply chain pressures, labor challenges, and policy uncertainties. Businesses need to optimize supply chains, attract talent, and embrace digitalization to address challenges and achieve sustainable development. The slowing growth rate warrants close monitoring of these factors to understand the future trajectory of the services sector and its impact on the overall economy.

Crops Focuses on Supply Chain Resilience Amid Shipping Volatility

Crops Focuses on Supply Chain Resilience Amid Shipping Volatility

Under the leadership of Mary McNelly, Global Logistics Director, Crocs Inc. adjusted its ocean freight contract strategy, prioritizing capacity redundancy over cost optimization to navigate market uncertainties. By diversifying its carrier portfolio, implementing flexible contract terms, and leveraging innovative tools, Crocs aims to build a more resilient supply chain, ensuring business continuity and growth. This case highlights the importance of supply chain resilience for corporate competitiveness in turbulent markets. This proactive approach allows Crocs to better respond to disruptions and maintain a steady flow of goods.

Hanjin Shipping Collapse Highlights Global Supply Chain Risks

Hanjin Shipping Collapse Highlights Global Supply Chain Risks

The Hanjin Shipping bankruptcy case highlights significant hidden risks within supply chains, with creditors potentially recovering less than two cents on the dollar. This article reviews the bankruptcy event, analyzes the creditors' predicament, proposes early warning signs for corporate bankruptcy, and explores issues such as supply chain risk prevention, industry impact, digital transformation, and green shipping. The aim is to provide businesses with risk management advice and strategies for building more resilient supply chains in the face of future disruptions and financial instability in the shipping sector.

Global Ecommerce Firms Optimize Supply Chains for Trade Growth

Global Ecommerce Firms Optimize Supply Chains for Trade Growth

Cross-border e-commerce faces complex supply chain challenges. This paper proposes strategies such as agility, risk management, and technology application to optimize supply chain organization, enhance corporate competitiveness, and achieve sustainable development. It addresses the need for businesses to adapt to the dynamic global trade environment and highlights the importance of efficient and resilient supply chains for success in the cross-border e-commerce sector. The proposed strategies aim to help businesses navigate the complexities of international logistics, customs regulations, and varying consumer demands.

HS Code 46021925 Key to Streamlining Supply Chains

HS Code 46021925 Key to Streamlining Supply Chains

Accurate customs classification using HS codes is crucial for corporate compliance and supply chain optimization. This article focuses on HS code 46021925, covering "other" category goods, and emphasizes the importance of precise classification. It outlines the potential risks associated with incorrect classification and highlights the benefits of accurate categorization, aiming to help businesses avoid risks and enhance their competitiveness. Proper HS code assignment ensures smooth customs clearance, reduces delays, and minimizes potential penalties, ultimately contributing to a more efficient and cost-effective supply chain.

Airlines Adopt Guidelines to Reduce Singleuse Plastics

Airlines Adopt Guidelines to Reduce Singleuse Plastics

The IATA's 'Guidance on Reducing Single-Use Plastics in Air Cargo' (SUPP) offers crucial guidance for plastic reduction in the air cargo industry. The guideline emphasizes life cycle assessment, reduction strategies, and cultural development, aiming to drive the air cargo industry towards a circular economy. This initiative seeks to reduce environmental pollution, enhance corporate image, and achieve sustainable development. It provides practical steps for airlines, freight forwarders, and other stakeholders to minimize their plastic footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future for air cargo operations.

US Service Sector Growth Defies Economic Headwinds

US Service Sector Growth Defies Economic Headwinds

The US ISM report indicates a slight decrease but continued solid growth in non-manufacturing activity for April. New orders and employment growth were highlights. Declining inventories reflect post-holiday consumption and corporate adjustments, while a stronger dollar impacted imports. Experts are optimistic about the future, suggesting that structural changes in the non-manufacturing sector are worth noting, and technological innovation will be key. Overall, the report paints a picture of a healthy, albeit slightly cooled, non-manufacturing sector contributing positively to the US economy.