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
Read More
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
Read More
US Retail Sales Growth Flatlines in July Amid Economic Pressures

US Retail Sales Growth Flatlines in July Amid Economic Pressures

Reports from the U.S. Department of Commerce and the National Retail Federation (NRF) indicate a slowdown in retail sales growth in July. Commerce Department data shows a total retail sales increase of 3.7%, while NRF data reveals a core retail sales increase of only 0.1%. Retailers need to proactively address these challenges and adjust their strategies to adapt to evolving consumer demands. This slowdown signals a potential shift in consumer behavior, requiring retailers to be agile and responsive to maintain sales momentum.

01/27/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
US Retail Sales Jump in February Hinting at Economic Recovery

US Retail Sales Jump in February Hinting at Economic Recovery

US retail sales exceeded expectations in February, offering hope for economic recovery. Consumer spending remains robust, but the economic outlook is mixed. Experts are optimistic about the housing market, while retailers remain cautious. Future attention should be paid to factors such as employment, consumer confidence, and the housing market to determine the sustainability of the recovery. These indicators will be crucial in assessing whether the positive retail sales figures represent a genuine and lasting upturn in the economy.

01/27/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
Freight Recession Worsens As Cass Index Points to Economic Slowdown

Freight Recession Worsens As Cass Index Points to Economic Slowdown

The Cass Freight Index indicates a potential economic downturn with declines in both freight volume and expenditures in October. Weak demand, inventory adjustments, and excess capacity are contributing to market pressure. Businesses should respond with agility and focus on cost control to navigate these challenging conditions. The report signals a need for careful monitoring of supply chain dynamics and proactive strategies to mitigate risks associated with the economic slowdown.

01/26/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
US GDP Growth Slows As Economic Recovery Shows Mixed Signals

US GDP Growth Slows As Economic Recovery Shows Mixed Signals

The US GDP grew by 1.9% in the first quarter, falling short of expectations. Consumer spending and exports increased, but government spending declined. Freight market data confirms a sluggish economic recovery. Attention should be paid to inflation, geopolitical risks, and labor market challenges. Future strategies should rely on data-driven decision-making to enhance economic resilience.

01/26/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
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
Read More
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
Read More
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
Read More
US Service Sector Hits Record High Amid Strong Economic Growth

US Service Sector Hits Record High Amid Strong Economic Growth

The U.S. ISM Non-Manufacturing Index (NMI) surged to 58.6 in August, a record high, according to the Institute for Supply Management. This is well above the expansion/contraction threshold and the past 12-month average, signaling the 44th consecutive month of growth in the U.S. non-manufacturing sector, providing strong momentum for economic expansion. All sub-indexes performed strongly, reflecting overall economic health. However, this could also exacerbate inflationary pressures, which the Federal Reserve will likely monitor closely.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More