US Rail Freight Declines in Carloads but Gains in Intermodal

US Rail Freight Declines in Carloads but Gains in Intermodal

Recent data reveals a mixed picture for the US rail freight market. While carload volume experienced a slight year-over-year decrease, shipments of chemicals, automobiles & parts, and grain performed strongly. Intermodal transportation showed robust growth, serving as a key driver for the market's expansion. Year-to-date figures further confirm this trend, indicating a transitional period for the rail freight market. Businesses need to closely monitor market dynamics and seize emerging opportunities. Intermodal's strength suggests a shift in freight patterns and highlights its growing importance in the supply chain.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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Rail Industry Leader Addresses Infrastructure Bill Supply Chain Issues

Rail Industry Leader Addresses Infrastructure Bill Supply Chain Issues

This article provides an in-depth analysis of an interview with Ian Jefferies, President of the Association of American Railroads (AAR), focusing on the impact of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, White House executive orders, and the global supply chain on rail freight. It examines the role and challenges of railways within the supply chain, and forecasts future trends in rail and intermodal transportation, offering readers a clear picture of the industry landscape. The analysis highlights the interplay between policy, infrastructure, and global events shaping the future of rail freight.

02/11/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Rail Freight Volumes Drop Amid Economic Uncertainty

US Rail Freight Volumes Drop Amid Economic Uncertainty

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows that U.S. rail freight and intermodal volumes both declined year-over-year for the week ending May 14. This article analyzes the various factors behind this phenomenon, including slowing economic growth, energy transition, and supply chain disruptions. It explores the challenges and opportunities facing the rail transportation industry, as well as potential strategies for addressing these issues. The analysis highlights the impact of broader economic trends on the rail sector's performance and the need for adaptation in a changing landscape.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Sees Mixed Results Carloads Rise Intermodal Falls

US Rail Freight Sees Mixed Results Carloads Rise Intermodal Falls

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail carloads increased by 2.9% year-over-year for the week ending August 20th, driven primarily by coal and grain shipments. However, intermodal traffic decreased by 2.4% year-over-year, with a year-to-date decline of 5.5%. While overall North American rail freight volume saw a slight increase, intermodal transportation also faced a decline. This divergence in the rail freight market reflects the complexity of the economic situation, highlighting the need for improved efficiency and collaboration to address future challenges.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Demand Fluctuates Amid Economic Uncertainty

US Rail Freight Demand Fluctuates Amid Economic Uncertainty

Data from the Association of American Railroads reveals a mixed picture for US rail freight for the week ending July 23rd. Carload traffic saw a slight increase, while intermodal traffic declined year-over-year. Year-to-date figures reflect a similar trend. Overall North American rail freight also faces challenges. Moving forward, rail freight needs to navigate economic downturns and supply chain bottlenecks while capitalizing on opportunities presented by infrastructure investments and the growing emphasis on green initiatives. The industry's performance reflects broader economic trends and the evolving landscape of freight transportation.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Decline Signals Economic Worries

US Rail Freight Decline Signals Economic Worries

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows that U.S. rail freight and intermodal volumes declined year-over-year in the first week of August. While some commodity categories saw increased freight volumes, they couldn't offset the overall downward trend. Intermodal transportation continues to be weak, with a significant cumulative decline throughout the year. Experts believe that the global economic downturn and supply chain bottlenecks are contributing factors, and significant improvement is unlikely in the short term. It is recommended that the government increase support and optimize the business environment.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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New IATA Directory Enhances Dangerous Goods Transport Safety

New IATA Directory Enhances Dangerous Goods Transport Safety

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) publishes a directory of UN packaging suppliers and testing facilities to provide compliance guidance for companies transporting dangerous goods. This aims to simplify the search process, reduce compliance costs, and improve safety levels. The directory includes information on packaging manufacturers and suppliers that meet UN specifications, as well as packaging performance testing organizations. IATA emphasizes that the directory is for reference only and companies should exercise caution in their selection. IATA will continue to update the directory to promote the safe transportation of dangerous goods.

01/20/2026 Logistics
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Aviation Industry Struggles with New Dangerous Goods Rules

Aviation Industry Struggles with New Dangerous Goods Rules

The air cargo industry faces increasingly complex challenges in complying with dangerous goods transportation regulations. With cumbersome rules and a lack of standardization, the industry needs to strengthen collaboration to simplify regulations, develop standards, and promote training. Embracing digital transformation and sustainable development is also crucial. This will build a safer and more efficient future for air cargo by streamlining processes, ensuring adherence to best practices, and fostering a culture of safety and responsibility throughout the supply chain. The focus should be on creating a more harmonized and transparent system.

01/20/2026 Logistics
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Spain Aims to Boost Economy Through Air Transport Reforms

Spain Aims to Boost Economy Through Air Transport Reforms

The Spanish air transport industry significantly contributes to the national economy but faces challenges including airspace efficiency, airport capacity, and charges. This report recommends enhancing Spain's aviation competitiveness through a national airspace strategy, ensuring sufficient airport capacity, developing multimodal transportation, and fostering air cargo development. These measures aim to boost economic growth by improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the aviation sector, addressing existing bottlenecks, and promoting seamless integration with other modes of transport. Ultimately, a more competitive aviation industry will lead to greater economic prosperity for Spain.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Usmexico Border Rail Shutdown Disrupts Supply Chains Businesses Demand Action

Usmexico Border Rail Shutdown Disrupts Supply Chains Businesses Demand Action

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection's closure of rail crossings along the U.S.-Mexico border has triggered a supply chain crisis. Industry associations are urging a swift reopening, highlighting its crucial role in North American trade. The disruption threatens to cause agricultural product spoilage, damage to the automotive industry, increased consumer prices, and overall economic downturn risks. Recommendations include strengthening cooperation, increasing patrols, and diversifying transportation methods to ensure supply chain stability. The impact of the closure is far-reaching and requires immediate attention to mitigate further economic consequences.

01/20/2026 Logistics
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