North American Rail Freight Carloads Rise Intermodal Declines

North American Rail Freight Carloads Rise Intermodal Declines

For the week ending November 8, 2025, U.S. rail carload traffic saw a slight increase of 0.1%, while intermodal units decreased by 8.7% year-over-year. Year-to-date figures show carloads and intermodal up 1.8% and 2.5% respectively, but the single-week data reflects pressures from economic slowdown, supply chain challenges, and energy transition. Rail freight needs to embrace innovation and strengthen collaboration to navigate these challenges and seize growth opportunities.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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North American Intermodal Transport Grows Amid Trade Uncertainties

North American Intermodal Transport Grows Amid Trade Uncertainties

The North American multimodal transportation market displays a 'dual differentiation' trend amidst trade uncertainties. While traditional sectors face challenges, multimodal transport remains crucial for future growth due to its cost-effectiveness and environmental benefits. Fully unlocking its potential requires overcoming challenges related to infrastructure, technological upgrades, and seamless connectivity. By addressing these hurdles, multimodal transportation can be transformed into a powerful engine for trade growth in North America, fostering economic prosperity and sustainable logistics solutions.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Rail Freight Rises in Early August on Carload Intermodal Growth

US Rail Freight Rises in Early August on Carload Intermodal Growth

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight continued to grow in the week ending August 9th, with carload traffic up 2.4% year-over-year and intermodal traffic up 3.4%. Year-to-date figures show a 2.8% increase in total carloads and a 4.6% increase in total intermodal volume. This growth in rail freight reflects the overall economic recovery in the United States. However, the industry faces challenges related to infrastructure and competition.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Volumes Reflect Uneven Recovery Trends

US Rail Freight Volumes Reflect Uneven Recovery Trends

The Association of American Railroads reported that U.S. rail freight and intermodal traffic both increased year-over-year for the week ending August 30th. Chemicals and metallic ores showed strong performance, while petroleum and grain declined. Year-to-date figures indicate overall growth in both rail freight and intermodal volume. Key drivers include economic recovery and infrastructure investments. However, attention should be paid to geopolitical risks such as inflation and labor shortages.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Truckload Rates and Volume Drop in July DAT

US Truckload Rates and Volume Drop in July DAT

The DAT report indicates a seasonal cooling in the US trucking market in late July, with both freight volumes and rates declining. Dry van, refrigerated, and flatbed sectors all experienced varying degrees of decrease. Analysts attribute this to a combination of seasonal factors, economic conditions, excess capacity, and fuel prices. Facing both challenges and opportunities, trucking companies and shippers need to closely monitor market trends and flexibly adjust their business strategies to navigate market volatility.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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North American Class 8 Truck Orders Drop Amid Weak Demand

North American Class 8 Truck Orders Drop Amid Weak Demand

Reports from ACT Research and FTR Associates indicate a drop in North American Class 8 truck orders for March, reaching the lowest level since 2010. Key factors contributing to this decline include inventory overhang, rising prices, diesel costs, freight volumes, fleet replacement cycles, and economic uncertainty. The reports suggest that truck manufacturers and dealers should enhance market research, optimize product portfolios, improve service quality, and focus on technological innovation to navigate the challenging market conditions.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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Class 8 Truck Backlog Reaches Decade High Straining Logistics

Class 8 Truck Backlog Reaches Decade High Straining Logistics

Recent data shows Class 8 truck backlogs at a decade high, highlighting logistics and supply chain bottlenecks. Multiple factors, including economic recovery, infrastructure stimulus, and e-commerce growth, are driving demand, while capacity constraints exacerbate supply-demand imbalances. Order backlogs lead to delivery delays and increased costs. Calls are being made to increase capacity, optimize supply chains, and encourage technological innovation to address the challenges and seize opportunities presented by the surge in demand.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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North American Class 8 Truck Orders Recover Slightly Production Cuts Expected

North American Class 8 Truck Orders Recover Slightly Production Cuts Expected

North American Class 8 truck orders increased by 27% month-over-month in August, but remained the second lowest since 2010. FTR forecasts Q4 orders will be below current production levels, potentially requiring OEMs to adjust production strategies to align with market demand. Factors such as economic slowdown, overcapacity, fluctuating fuel prices, and technological advancements are impacting the market. Companies need to optimize operations, expand business, and strengthen innovation to address these challenges.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Chinaasean Trade Pact Upgrade Boosts Southeast Asia Business

Chinaasean Trade Pact Upgrade Boosts Southeast Asia Business

China and ASEAN have completed negotiations for the upgraded version 3.0 of their Free Trade Area, bringing new opportunities for businesses in areas like digital economy, green and low-carbon development, and mutual recognition of standards. As each other's largest trading partners, the overlapping policies of RCEP and the FTA 3.0 are expected to boost regional economic growth. Businesses should seize these opportunities and actively plan their strategies to capitalize on the evolving landscape.

02/05/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Switzerland Adopts Revised Kyoto Pact to Enhance Trade Efficiency

Switzerland Adopts Revised Kyoto Pact to Enhance Trade Efficiency

Switzerland's ratification of the Revised Kyoto Convention in 2004 demonstrates its commitment to international cooperation and trade facilitation. This action aims to simplify customs procedures, harmonize international systems, and promote global trade development. It serves as a model for other nations, contributing to a more open and efficient global trading system. The adoption reflects Switzerland's proactive role in shaping a modern and streamlined international trade environment, fostering economic growth and collaboration worldwide.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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