US Rail Freight Rises Intermodal Gains Surge in Early October

US Rail Freight Rises Intermodal Gains Surge in Early October

This article analyzes the growth of U.S. rail freight and intermodal volumes in early October 2025, indicating a general trend reflecting increased economic activity. It delves into commodity categories, year-to-date data, and influencing factors, while also looking ahead to future market opportunities and challenges. The analysis emphasizes the impact of macroeconomics, industry structure, technological innovation, and geopolitics on rail transportation.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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Wells Fargo Consumer Strength Eases 2025 Tariff Worries

Wells Fargo Consumer Strength Eases 2025 Tariff Worries

Wells Fargo reports that US consumers are showing resilience. Businesses are adapting their supply chains to address tariffs and retail challenges. The retail sector is optimizing operations and expanding online channels to navigate the evolving landscape. These adjustments reflect efforts to maintain stability and growth amidst economic pressures, highlighting the dynamic responses of both consumers and businesses to current market conditions.

North American Intermodal Market Rebounds Eyes Sustained 2024 Growth

North American Intermodal Market Rebounds Eyes Sustained 2024 Growth

The North American intermodal market saw growth in Q4 2023, ending nine consecutive quarters of decline. While full-year figures remained weak, inventory normalization, economic growth, and the resolution of West Coast labor contracts offer hope for 2024. Trucking competition and global 'X factors' pose challenges. Key success factors include technological innovation, mutually beneficial partnerships, environmental sustainability, and talent development.

Mexico Expands Ports to Boost Global Trade

Mexico Expands Ports to Boost Global Trade

Mexico boasts five major ports: Manzanillo, Lázaro Cárdenas, Veracruz, Altamira, and Ensenada. These ports play a crucial role in container shipping, mineral exports, energy and chemical industries, agricultural imports, and fisheries tourism. They serve as vital hubs for Mexico's economic development and global trade, facilitating the movement of goods and contributing significantly to the nation's economy by connecting it to international markets.

WCO Data Model Eases Global Trade Barriers

WCO Data Model Eases Global Trade Barriers

The World Customs Organization (WCO) Data Model serves as a 'common language' for cross-border trade. By standardizing data, it empowers customs, regulatory bodies, and traders to achieve efficient and secure cross-border data exchange. Adopting the WCO Data Model can reduce compliance costs, shorten clearance times, and improve supply chain efficiency. Ultimately, this fosters global trade facilitation and economic growth.

US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Dips in Intermodal for November

US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Dips in Intermodal for November

In November 2025, US rail freight saw carload traffic increase by 4.3%, while intermodal traffic declined by 6.5%. Commodities like coal experienced growth, while miscellaneous carloads decreased. Year-to-date figures still show overall growth. The rail freight industry faces both challenges and opportunities, as reflected in these economic indicators and the performance of intermodal and traditional rail freight sectors.

12/05/2025 Logistics
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WCO Backs Ghana Customs Modernization for 21st Century Trade

WCO Backs Ghana Customs Modernization for 21st Century Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO), through the WACAM project, provided strategic planning support to the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA). This aimed to evaluate and optimize its 2015-2017 Customs Strategic Plan, enhance monitoring and evaluation, and improve project management capabilities. The initiative assists Ghana Customs in building a modern management system fit for the 21st century, ultimately contributing to Ghana's economic development.

US Rail Freight Volumes Decline AAR Reports

US Rail Freight Volumes Decline AAR Reports

U.S. rail freight and intermodal traffic both decreased year-over-year in the first week of March. While carloads of coal, petroleum, and motor vehicles increased, commodities like grain experienced declines. Overall, North American rail freight volume also saw a downturn. These figures are often viewed as economic indicators, reflecting the health and activity of various industries and supply chains.

01/16/2026 Logistics
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US Trade Rep Tai Outlines New China Strategy

US Trade Rep Tai Outlines New China Strategy

US Trade Representative Katherine Tai outlined the US's new trade strategy towards China, emphasizing US economic interests as the core. The strategy involves evaluating and enforcing the 'Phase One' trade agreement, and focusing on China's 'non-market' trade policies. This new approach aims to address trade challenges posed by China. However, the future direction of US-China trade relations remains uncertain.

US Rail Freight Carloads Dip Intermodal Rises in Early January

US Rail Freight Carloads Dip Intermodal Rises in Early January

US rail freight saw a 2% decrease in carload volume, while intermodal volume increased by 12.8%. The decline in coal transportation was a primary factor in the overall carload decrease. Increased consumer demand fueled the growth in intermodal traffic. The rail freight industry faces structural adjustments and opportunities, with the shift towards intermodal highlighting evolving transportation needs and economic dynamics.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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