US Rail Freight Gains Offset by Auto Sector Decline

US Rail Freight Gains Offset by Auto Sector Decline

Data from the Association of American Railroads indicates overall growth in U.S. rail freight during late July. Carload traffic increased by 7.1%, and intermodal traffic rose by 2.6%. Coal and metallic ores saw significant gains in freight volume, while motor vehicles and parts experienced a substantial decline, reflecting an uneven economic recovery. Year-to-date cumulative freight volume shows considerable growth. However, supply chain challenges persist, suggesting continued complexities in the movement of goods despite the positive freight data.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Slows As Select Commodities Defy Decline

US Rail Freight Slows As Select Commodities Defy Decline

Recent data shows a year-over-year decrease in overall US rail freight and intermodal volume. However, car & parts, farm products & food, and nonmetallic minerals experienced growth. Year-to-date figures indicate a decline in intermodal volume compared to the previous year. Businesses should leverage data-driven decision-making, optimize supply chains, diversify operations, invest in technological innovation, and monitor policy changes to proactively address challenges and capitalize on opportunities in the evolving rail freight landscape.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Offset Intermodal Decline

US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Offset Intermodal Decline

According to the Association of American Railroads, for the week ending February 12, U.S. rail carload traffic increased by 11.9% year-over-year, while intermodal containers and trailers decreased by 0.4%. Coal and nonmetallic minerals were the primary drivers of carload growth, while intermodal faced challenges such as port congestion and equipment shortages. Year-to-date, total U.S. rail traffic is down 7.8% compared to the same period last year.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Intermodal Volumes Decline Amid Economic Concerns

US Rail Freight Intermodal Volumes Decline Amid Economic Concerns

US rail freight and intermodal volumes decreased year-over-year, reflecting a slowing economy. Overall freight saw a slight decrease of 0.6%, while intermodal transport experienced a more significant drop of 4.6%. These declines suggest weakening demand and potentially indicate a broader economic downturn. The intermodal sector, often seen as a bellwether for consumer spending, is particularly sensitive to economic fluctuations. Monitoring these trends provides valuable insights into the health and direction of the US economy.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Slumps Auto Shipments Rise Amid Decline

US Rail Freight Slumps Auto Shipments Rise Amid Decline

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows a decline in both U.S. rail freight and intermodal traffic for the week ending December 12th, signaling potential economic headwinds. While shipments of motor vehicles and parts provided a bright spot, overall freight volume decreased. Year-to-date figures reveal a decline in total carloads and a slower growth rate in intermodal volume. Rail freight volume is often considered an economic indicator, suggesting the industry faces both challenges and opportunities in the future. The overall trend indicates a cautious outlook for the economy.

02/12/2026 Logistics
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October Shipping Volumes and Costs Decline Cass Index Shows

October Shipping Volumes and Costs Decline Cass Index Shows

The Cass Freight Index reveals a year-over-year and month-over-month decline in North American freight volumes and expenditures for October, reflecting macroeconomic slowdown and inventory overhang. Despite short-term pressures, economic recovery and structural adjustments are expected to create new growth opportunities. Companies need to pay close attention to market dynamics and respond flexibly. The downturn highlights the need for efficient supply chain management and strategic adaptation to navigate the evolving economic landscape. Proactive measures will be crucial for businesses to weather the current challenges and capitalize on future upturns.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Fedex USPS Partnership at Risk As Air Volumes Decline

Fedex USPS Partnership at Risk As Air Volumes Decline

The contract between FedEx and USPS is nearing expiration, and both parties are negotiating renewal terms. FedEx faces revenue pressure due to USPS's reduced air transportation volume and is actively seeking to improve operational efficiency and expand into new businesses. Industry experts believe that both sides need to find a balance between strategic goals and market realities. The future cooperation model will impact the logistics industry landscape.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Class 8 Truck Orders Decline Amid Freight Slowdown Concerns

Class 8 Truck Orders Decline Amid Freight Slowdown Concerns

ACT Research data indicates that the improvement trend in Class 8 truck order backlogs stalled in June, suggesting potential challenges for the logistics industry. Key factors include economic slowdown, artificial factors, and industry cyclicality. Logistics companies should closely monitor market dynamics, optimize fleet management, invest in new technologies, strengthen risk management, and flexibly adjust their business strategies to cope with future uncertainties. This pause in backlog improvement signals a need for proactive adaptation within the logistics sector to navigate the evolving economic landscape.

02/03/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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North American Heavyduty Truck Orders Decline Amid Industry Uncertainty

North American Heavyduty Truck Orders Decline Amid Industry Uncertainty

The decline in North American heavy-duty truck orders in March has raised concerns. Data from ACT Research and FTR Associates both indicate orders were below expectations. Multiple factors contribute to this downturn, including model transitions, inventory strategies, diesel prices, and freight volumes. Despite these challenges, replacement demand persists, and technological innovations and regulatory policies will create new opportunities. The industry needs to proactively adapt to changes and stay attuned to market trends. This period requires careful navigation to maintain stability and capitalize on emerging possibilities within the heavy-duty truck sector.

02/03/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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North American Trucking Market Adapts As Trailer Orders Decline

North American Trucking Market Adapts As Trailer Orders Decline

Recent data indicates a decline in US trailer orders, but backlogs are still increasing, reflecting both capacity bottlenecks and ongoing demand. Heavy-duty truck orders continue to grow, driven by tight capacity and fleet renewal needs. The used vehicle market is cooling, with demand shifting towards new vehicles. The North American commercial vehicle market faces both opportunities and challenges. A rational approach to market fluctuations is necessary to capitalize on long-term growth opportunities. The market presents a mixed picture of decreasing trailer orders coupled with strong truck demand.

02/03/2026 Logistics
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