STB Proposes US Rail Freight Reforms to Cut Shipper Costs

STB Proposes US Rail Freight Reforms to Cut Shipper Costs

The U.S. Surface Transportation Board (STB) has introduced two proposals aimed at helping rail freight users reduce costs and break the rail freight monopoly by reforming rate dispute resolution mechanisms and promoting inter-railroad competition. The proposals simplify the rate challenge process, lower the threshold for shippers to protect their rights, and consider adopting NITL's competitive switching proposal to secure more rights for shippers. These changes intend to make rate challenges more accessible and potentially increase competition among rail carriers, ultimately benefiting shippers.

01/22/2026 Logistics
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North American Rail Freight Mixed As Intermodal Outperforms in July

North American Rail Freight Mixed As Intermodal Outperforms in July

The Association of American Railroads (AAR) reported mixed results for North American rail freight traffic for the week ending July 7. Overall freight volume saw a slight year-over-year decrease, but intermodal volume increased. Regional performance varied, with significant differences between the East and West. Automotive and petroleum product shipments showed notable growth. Businesses should optimize intermodal strategies, pay attention to regional variations and key industries, and strengthen risk management practices.

01/22/2026 Logistics
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Supreme Court Backs Ruling BNSF Must Pay Millions in Shipping Rate Dispute

Supreme Court Backs Ruling BNSF Must Pay Millions in Shipping Rate Dispute

The U.S. Supreme Court upheld a ruling ordering BNSF Railway to pay $345 million in damages and freight rate reductions to two power companies. The power companies challenged BNSF's coal transportation charges, arguing they were excessively high. This decision could impact railroad freight rate pricing mechanisms and spark further discussion regarding the regulation of the railroad industry. The ruling reinforces the principle that railroads must justify their rates and potentially opens the door for similar challenges from other shippers.

01/22/2026 Logistics
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Canadian Pacific Expands Saskatchewan Hub for Asiapacific Trade

Canadian Pacific Expands Saskatchewan Hub for Asiapacific Trade

Canadian Pacific Railway planned to relocate its intermodal operations to the Global Transportation Hub (GTH) by the end of 2012, aiming to enhance freight handling capacity and serve Asia-Pacific trade demands. The new 300-acre facility would have an annual container handling capacity of 250,000, approximately five times that of the existing freight yard. This move was intended to strengthen the integration of rail and road transportation, improve efficiency, and bring economic benefits to Saskatchewan.

01/22/2026 Logistics
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US East Coast Gulf Ports Ratify Sixyear Labor Pact Amid Automation Push

US East Coast Gulf Ports Ratify Sixyear Labor Pact Amid Automation Push

A six-year labor agreement has been reached for 36 ports on the US East and Gulf Coasts, guaranteeing wage increases and promoting automation. This agreement stabilizes labor relations and fosters regional economic growth. However, it's crucial to monitor market dynamics, strengthen technological innovation, and deepen labor-management cooperation to address potential challenges and ensure the ports' competitiveness in global trade. Continued focus on these areas will be vital for sustained success in the evolving landscape of international commerce.

01/22/2026 Logistics
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East Coast Gulf Ports Ratify 6year Labor Pact Boosting Automation and Pay

East Coast Gulf Ports Ratify 6year Labor Pact Boosting Automation and Pay

The International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) have signed a new six-year contract covering 36 ports on the U.S. East and Gulf Coasts. The agreement guarantees wage increases for dockworkers and provides a framework for port automation. It aims to achieve labor harmony, improve port efficiency, stabilize the supply chain, and promote international trade. This agreement is expected to foster a more predictable and productive environment for maritime commerce along these crucial waterways.

01/22/2026 Logistics
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East Coast Gulf Ports Ratify Sixyear Labor Pact With Wage Increases

East Coast Gulf Ports Ratify Sixyear Labor Pact With Wage Increases

The International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) have reached a new six-year contract covering 36 ports on the US East and Gulf Coasts. The agreement includes record wage increases and automation protections, averting a potential strike, ensuring supply chain stability, and paving the way for port modernization. The efforts of all parties and the solidarity of ILA members were key to reaching the agreement.

01/22/2026 Logistics
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Trump Backs Dockworkers Stalls Port Automation in US

Trump Backs Dockworkers Stalls Port Automation in US

Trump publicly supports the International Longshoremen's Association (ILA), opposing port automation and advocating for prioritizing American workers' jobs. Labor-management negotiations on automation have stalled, prompting industry associations to urge a return to the negotiating table. Trump's intervention could influence the direction of negotiations, potentially impacting the US economy and global supply chains. The dispute highlights the tension between technological advancement and job security, with significant implications for the future of work in the maritime industry.

01/22/2026 Logistics
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West Coast Ports Secure Labor Deal Amid Ongoing Congestion Challenges

West Coast Ports Secure Labor Deal Amid Ongoing Congestion Challenges

The Pacific Maritime Association and the International Longshore and Warehouse Union reached a tentative agreement on a new five-year contract for West Coast ports, aiming to resolve port congestion and restore reputation. Details are yet to be released, but clearing backlogs and regaining shipper confidence remain challenges. Automation issues and supply chain resilience are key concerns. Future labor-management cooperation, increased efficiency, and comprehensive reforms are needed to ensure the long-term prosperity of the ports.

01/22/2026 Logistics
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West Coast Ports Resume Labor Talks to Prevent Congestion

West Coast Ports Resume Labor Talks to Prevent Congestion

The International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) and the Pacific Maritime Association (PMA) are scheduled to resume negotiations to proactively address contract extensions and prevent future freight congestion at West Coast ports. These talks are critical to global trade stability. Key negotiation points are expected to include wages and benefits, automation, job security, and contract duration. The outcome will directly impact shippers' supply chain efficiency and costs, making a timely agreement essential to avoid disruptions.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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