US Intermodal Volume Falls Further in July Amid Economic Slowdown

US Intermodal Volume Falls Further in July Amid Economic Slowdown

According to IANA data, US intermodal volume decreased by 9.8% year-over-year in July, a widening decline. Key factors include economic weakness, high inventory levels, and increased competition from trucking. IANA anticipates a potential turnaround in the second half of the year, but expects growth to be slower than in the past. President Joni Casey noted that Q2 performance was below expectations and hopes for a strong peak season. She emphasized that high inventories, inflation, and declining consumer demand are contributing factors.

01/20/2026 Logistics
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US Imports Rise As Supply Chains Adapt to Economic Shifts

US Imports Rise As Supply Chains Adapt to Economic Shifts

A Panjiva report indicates that US imports decreased month-over-month but increased year-over-year in February. Daily import volume reached a record high, suggesting the supply chain is still operating at full capacity. Imports of energy, consumer goods, and industrial equipment saw significant growth, while raw materials and IT product imports declined. The report highlights the resilience of the supply chain but also warns that inflation and geopolitical risks could impact future demand, requiring businesses to adapt flexibly.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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TD Cowen Analyst Assesses Freight Market Amid Tariffs Economic Shifts

TD Cowen Analyst Assesses Freight Market Amid Tariffs Economic Shifts

TD Cowen analyst Jason Seidl analyzes the current state of the freight economy, the impact of tariffs, LTL and truckload market trends, and the application of AI in logistics. The article delves into economic recovery signals, tariff response strategies, the strategic significance of AI, the long-term value of nearshoring, and the opportunities and challenges in the M&A market. It provides valuable insights for businesses to understand freight market trends, offering guidance on navigating the evolving landscape and making informed decisions in a dynamic environment.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Congress Urged to Block US Rail Strike Amid Economic Risks

Congress Urged to Block US Rail Strike Amid Economic Risks

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce warns of a potential nationwide railroad strike if unions and freight companies fail to reach an agreement or Congress doesn't intervene. A strike could cause $2 billion in daily economic losses, impacting critical sectors like food, passenger transport, manufacturing, and energy. The Chamber supports the Presidential Emergency Board's recommendations and urges Congress to take action to avert an economic disaster. The potential strike highlights the severe consequences of unresolved labor disputes and the fragility of the supply chain.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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US Manufacturing PMI Falls for Eighth Month Signaling Economic Concerns

US Manufacturing PMI Falls for Eighth Month Signaling Economic Concerns

The ISM Manufacturing PMI fell to 46 in June, marking the eighth consecutive month of contraction, according to the Institute for Supply Management. While new orders showed a slight rebound, demand remains weak. Businesses are expressing caution regarding the economic outlook. Experts anticipate continued economic weakness in the second half of the year, potentially leading to a 'soft landing' scenario and associated uncertainties. The prolonged contraction in manufacturing activity raises concerns about the overall health of the US economy.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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North American Class 8 Truck Orders Surge Amid Economic Recovery

North American Class 8 Truck Orders Surge Amid Economic Recovery

North American Class 8 heavy-duty truck orders surged in September, increasing by 66% month-over-month and 160% year-over-year, reaching a new high since October 2018. This surge is driven by a combination of factors including economic recovery, tight capacity, and equipment replacement, reflecting market confidence in future freight growth. While risks remain, the overall market outlook is optimistic, and the logistics industry is poised for further expansion. The strong order numbers indicate a positive sentiment within the trucking sector regarding the near-term economic environment.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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US Service Sector Growth Slows in March Raising Economic Concerns

US Service Sector Growth Slows in March Raising Economic Concerns

The ISM's March Non-Manufacturing Report indicates a slowdown in growth, despite the index remaining above the expansion threshold. Key indicators experienced a broad decline, and sector performance diverged. The report reflects uncertainty among businesses, but the overall economy demonstrates resilience. While economic growth is slowing, the underlying economy is still strong. Future developments require close monitoring to capitalize on emerging opportunities and navigate market fluctuations. The report suggests a need for businesses to adapt to the changing economic landscape.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Freight Market Shows Signs of Recovery Despite Economic Risks

US Freight Market Shows Signs of Recovery Despite Economic Risks

Bloomberg analyst Klaskow recently pointed out that the risk of a US economic recession is high, and the freight market is already facing a downturn. Capacity exits are expected to drive market rebalancing, and the seasonal peak demand season will bring opportunities. Large companies are enhancing their risk resistance through diversification, and retailer inventory management is key. The freight market is likely to see more stable development in the second half of the year. This suggests a potential recovery driven by capacity adjustments and seasonal demand despite the ongoing recessionary pressures.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Services Sector Expands Rapidly in July Amid Economic Concerns

US Services Sector Expands Rapidly in July Amid Economic Concerns

The ISM report indicates robust growth in non-manufacturing activity for July, with the NMI reaching 60.4. However, the employment index declined, and inflationary pressures intensified. Experts are cautiously optimistic about the future, emphasizing the need to monitor potential risks, with autumn being a crucial observation period. The report highlights the impact of fuel costs and underscores the importance of businesses adapting flexibly to market changes. Companies need to be agile in the face of evolving economic conditions.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Freight Recession Worsens As Cass Index Points to Economic Slowdown

Freight Recession Worsens As Cass Index Points to Economic Slowdown

The Cass Freight Index reveals a decline in both freight volume and expenditures in March, signaling challenges for the logistics industry. Increased demand differentiation, difficult inventory management, and potential price wars are anticipated. Logistics companies should optimize operations, expand services, strengthen risk control, and embrace digitalization to navigate these challenges and seize future opportunities. The report suggests a cautious outlook and highlights the need for adaptability and strategic planning within the logistics sector during this economic downturn.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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