US Rail Intermodal Gains Offset Carload Declines

US Rail Intermodal Gains Offset Carload Declines

According to the Association of American Railroads, the U.S. rail freight market showed a divergence in the week ending October 17th. Container traffic increased by 11.3% year-over-year, while traditional freight declined by 7.5%. E-commerce growth and supply chain restructuring are driving the growth of container business. Meanwhile, energy transition and manufacturing adjustments are causing the decline in traditional freight. Railway companies should increase investment in container business, expand diversified businesses, strengthen technological innovation, and actively participate in policy making.

01/17/2026 Logistics
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North American Rail Freight Growth Slows Amid Economic Challenges

North American Rail Freight Growth Slows Amid Economic Challenges

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight and intermodal traffic decreased year-over-year in the week ending February 4th, though cumulative traffic still shows growth. Performance varies across sectors, with significant growth in automotive, parts, and petroleum, while coal and grain face challenges. Intermodal transportation faces transformation pressures, requiring optimized operations and strengthened collaboration. The North American rail transport industry faces both opportunities and challenges, necessitating continued innovation, cost control, and a focus on sustainable development.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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US Diesel Prices Decline After Threeweek Rise

US Diesel Prices Decline After Threeweek Rise

U.S. Energy Information Administration data shows that the U.S. national average diesel price fell for the first time in three weeks, reaching $4.539 per gallon for the week ending February 6. The article delves into key factors influencing diesel prices, including crude oil price fluctuations, seasonal demand changes, refinery capacity utilization rates, and inventory levels. It also forecasts future diesel price trends and their impact on consumers, emphasizing the importance of monitoring market dynamics and responding rationally to price volatility.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Slump Sparks Economic Worries

US Rail Freight Slump Sparks Economic Worries

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows a year-over-year decline in U.S. rail freight and intermodal traffic for the week ending December 15th, raising concerns about the economic outlook. The article analyzes specific data, highlighting both growing and declining commodity categories. It explores potential factors influencing rail freight volume and looks ahead to the challenges and opportunities facing rail companies. The piece emphasizes the importance of rail freight as a key economic barometer, reflecting overall economic health and trends.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Sees Mixed Trends Carloads Rise Intermodal Falls

US Rail Freight Sees Mixed Trends Carloads Rise Intermodal Falls

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail carload traffic increased by 2% for the week ending September 17, with coal, nonmetallic minerals, and motor vehicles leading the gains. Intermodal traffic, however, decreased by 7.3%. Year-to-date, carload traffic is up slightly by 0.3%, while intermodal traffic is down 5.1%. Total North American rail volume also declined year-over-year. These diverging trends are influenced by various factors. Railroad companies need to proactively address challenges and seize opportunities in the future.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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Businesses Adapt to Persistent Supply Chain Disruptions

Businesses Adapt to Persistent Supply Chain Disruptions

SEKO Logistics experts point out that the e-commerce surge and port congestion have led to a global supply chain facing a 'never-ending peak season.' Businesses should plan ahead, optimize inventory, diversify their supply chains, strengthen collaboration, and adopt digital technologies to address the challenges and embrace the new normal of supply chains. Proactive planning and strategic adjustments are crucial for navigating the complexities of the current logistics landscape and ensuring business continuity during periods of high demand and potential disruptions.

UPS Explores Renewed Partnership with USPS for Ground Delivery

UPS Explores Renewed Partnership with USPS for Ground Delivery

UPS is renegotiating its Ground Saver service partnership with the United States Postal Service after previously ending the collaboration due to cost and reliability concerns. A renewed partnership could expand service reach, but the negotiation outlook remains uncertain. UPS also faces increasing competition in the e-commerce logistics market. Improving profitability remains a key challenge for UPS, regardless of the USPS partnership outcome. The success of Ground Saver will depend on balancing cost efficiency, reliable delivery, and competitive pricing in the dynamic e-commerce landscape.

01/08/2026 Logistics
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UPS Wins USPS Air Cargo Contract Replacing Fedex

UPS Wins USPS Air Cargo Contract Replacing Fedex

UPS has secured a major air cargo contract with USPS, ending FedEx's 20-year monopoly and reshaping the parcel delivery landscape. USPS's decision to partner with UPS stems from cost control and service adjustments. Experts believe this move will have profound implications for UPS, FedEx, and USPS, potentially sparking a new wave of competition and innovation within the industry. The agreement signifies a significant shift in the air transportation of mail and packages, impacting delivery times, pricing strategies, and overall market dynamics for all involved.

Douyin Shops Zerodeposit Policy Sparks Debate Opportunity or Risk

Douyin Shops Zerodeposit Policy Sparks Debate Opportunity or Risk

TikTok Shop's "Zero-Cost Entry" policy lowers the barrier to entry for e-commerce, but comes with limitations. This article interprets the trial operation rules of this policy, analyzing its category restrictions, store limitations, and conditions for ending the trial operation. It provides an in-depth analysis of the advantages and disadvantages, offering decision-making references for merchants. It also reminds consumers to be aware of potential risks associated with this new model. This policy aims to attract more sellers, but careful consideration is needed before participation.

US Tariffs Strain Chinese Ecommerce Sellers

US Tariffs Strain Chinese Ecommerce Sellers

The US ending its de minimis exemption for small parcels from China impacts 1.36 billion packages, hitting cross-border e-commerce sellers hard. American consumers face higher prices, and retailers are forced to suspend shipments. Platforms like Temu are adjusting strategies, focusing on localized operations. Cross-border e-commerce businesses need to diversify, improve product quality, and optimize supply chains to navigate these challenges and survive. This policy shift necessitates a strategic overhaul for businesses reliant on direct-to-consumer exports to the US.