US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Dips in Intermodal

US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Dips in Intermodal

According to the Association of American Railroads, the U.S. rail freight market showed divergence in the week ending August 7th. Carload traffic increased by 6.3% year-over-year, primarily driven by strong demand for metallic ores and coal. However, intermodal volume decreased by 0.6% year-over-year, potentially due to port congestion and truck driver shortages. While year-to-date figures remain positive, supply chain challenges and industrial restructuring remain key areas of focus moving forward.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Carload Rises As Intermodal Declines

US Rail Freight Carload Rises As Intermodal Declines

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight traffic showed divergence in the week ending August 14. Carload traffic increased by 5.7% year-over-year, driven by demand for commodities like coal and metallic ores. Intermodal traffic decreased by 3% year-over-year, constrained by port congestion and other factors. Year-to-date figures show carload and intermodal traffic up 9% and 14.6% respectively. Railroad companies need to adopt differentiated strategies to address the changing market dynamics.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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LA and Long Beach Ports to Charge Fees for Delayed Containers

LA and Long Beach Ports to Charge Fees for Delayed Containers

To alleviate port congestion, the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach announced surcharges on lingering containers starting November 1st. The new rule aims to accelerate container turnover, but its effectiveness remains to be seen. The root cause of port congestion lies in the supply-demand imbalance, requiring systemic solutions. These include increasing throughput capacity, optimizing land transportation, and improving digitalization. Addressing these underlying issues is crucial for long-term improvement and stability within the supply chain.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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Walmarts 350B US Sourcing Plan Reshapes Supply Chains

Walmarts 350B US Sourcing Plan Reshapes Supply Chains

Walmart announced a $350 billion investment over the next decade to purchase goods made in the USA, aiming to support domestic businesses, shorten supply chains, reduce carbon emissions, and meet consumer demand. Through the 'American Lighthouses' initiative, Walmart seeks to remove obstacles to domestic manufacturing, empower small and medium-sized enterprises, and reshape a more resilient and sustainable supply chain. This move is expected to create jobs, stimulate economic growth, enhance supply chain resilience, and boost consumer confidence.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Trucking Rates Soar Amid Supply Chain Crisis CH Robinson Hikes Prices

Trucking Rates Soar Amid Supply Chain Crisis CH Robinson Hikes Prices

CH Robinson is raising truckload freight rates, reflecting the current tight capacity and supply-demand imbalance in the US trucking market. The company is addressing market changes by repricing contracts, and other logistics companies are facing similar situations. The article analyzes the reasons behind the rising freight rates and explores how businesses can strengthen supply chain resilience to cope with future challenges. This includes strategies for mitigating risk and improving operational efficiency in a volatile market environment.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Freight Volumes Rise Hinting at Economic Recovery

US Freight Volumes Rise Hinting at Economic Recovery

The US Bureau of Transportation Statistics reports a third consecutive month of growth in the Freight Transportation Services Index, signaling economic recovery. The report analyzes segments including trucking, rail, water, pipeline, and air freight. It offers recommendations for businesses and policymakers to address challenges and seize opportunities, emphasizing the importance of smooth logistics for economic prosperity. The consistent growth in freight suggests increased demand and activity across various sectors, providing a positive outlook for the overall economy.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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Mcdonalds Warns of Inflation Impact on Restaurant Industry

Mcdonalds Warns of Inflation Impact on Restaurant Industry

McDonald's warns of potential 4% cost inflation, highlighting the supply chain crisis facing the restaurant industry. This article delves into rising costs and supply chain disruptions, exploring underlying causes such as the pandemic's impact, surging demand, and geopolitical factors. It also offers advice for restaurant businesses and consumers on navigating these challenges, emphasizing the importance of innovation, efficiency, and digital transformation. The industry must adapt to mitigate the effects of these pressures and ensure continued service.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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California Exports Hold Steady Despite Economic Challenges

California Exports Hold Steady Despite Economic Challenges

California's export trade is showing positive momentum, benefiting from robust demand from key trading partners and increased port throughput. However, uncertainties in US trade policy and misconceptions about the trade deficit with China pose potential risks. California should strengthen cooperation with trading partners, diversify export markets, enhance product competitiveness, and monitor trade policy changes to address challenges and maintain growth momentum. This requires a proactive approach to navigate the evolving global trade landscape and ensure continued economic resilience.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Container Shipping Market to Stabilize Within Two Years Hapaglloyd

Container Shipping Market to Stabilize Within Two Years Hapaglloyd

Hapag-Lloyd predicts the container market will reach supply and demand balance in two years, emphasizing the importance of controlling capacity growth, industry consolidation, and the scrapping of older vessels. While overcapacity pressure persists in the short term, the market is expected to gradually recover. The key factors influencing this recovery are disciplined capacity management and the removal of older, less efficient ships from the active fleet, leading to a more balanced and sustainable shipping environment.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Lufthansa Cargo Gains Market Share As Ecommerce Boosts Q2 Growth

Lufthansa Cargo Gains Market Share As Ecommerce Boosts Q2 Growth

Lufthansa Cargo experienced a significant increase in revenue and profit in the second quarter, driven by strong demand from e-commerce. Through a diversified business portfolio, strategic expansion, and the integration of ITA Airways, Lufthansa Cargo is actively increasing its market share and solidifying its leadership position in the European and global freight markets. Looking ahead, Lufthansa Cargo is expected to maintain its strong growth momentum, capitalizing on the continued rise of e-commerce and strategic initiatives.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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