US Rail Freight Sees Mixed Results Carloads Rise Intermodal Falls

US Rail Freight Sees Mixed Results Carloads Rise Intermodal Falls

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail carloads increased by 1.1% for the week ending March 19, primarily driven by coal and chemical shipments, while intermodal traffic decreased by 5.7%. Year-to-date, carloads are up 3%, but intermodal volume is down 7.1%. Overall, North American rail freight volume is declining. This data provides insights into the current state of the freight transportation sector and serves as an economic indicator.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Declines in May As Economy Struggles

US Rail Freight Declines in May As Economy Struggles

US rail freight volume declined in May, reflecting an uneven economic landscape. While sectors like automotive experienced growth, commodities like grain saw decreases. Intermodal traffic also decreased. Overall freight volume for the first five months showed a slight increase, but intermodal shipments experienced a significant drop. This suggests potential shifts in transportation patterns and highlights the impact of ongoing supply chain adjustments and fluctuating demand across different industries on rail freight activity.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Railroad Labor Deal Nears Averting Supply Chain Crisis

US Railroad Labor Deal Nears Averting Supply Chain Crisis

The Presidential Emergency Board (PEB) has issued recommendations to resolve the railroad labor dispute in the US, aiming to prevent supply chain disruptions. The recommendations address wage increases, healthcare benefits, and contract renegotiation. While railroad associations and unions have initially welcomed the proposals, the risk of union member disapproval and subsequent negotiation breakdown remains. The ultimate success of reaching an agreement is crucial for maintaining US economic stability and ensuring smooth supply chain operations.

02/11/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Loses in Intermodal

US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Loses in Intermodal

The US rail freight market is diverging: carload traffic is up slightly, driven by demand for autos, coal, and agricultural products. However, intermodal container volume continues to decline due to easing port congestion, truck competition, and cooling consumer spending. Year-to-date figures are mixed, with overall North American rail performance weak. Rail freight faces challenges including economic downturns, supply chain instability, and increased competition, but also opportunities in sustainable development and technological innovation.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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E2open CEO Discusses Logistics Trends Challenges

E2open CEO Discusses Logistics Trends Challenges

E2open's CEO discusses the logistics industry, highlighting trade weakness and the need for supply chain diversification and resilience. He emphasizes that building interconnected supply chains is crucial for businesses. E2open provides solutions to help companies achieve this connectivity, improving visibility and control across their global operations. This approach enables businesses to better navigate disruptions and maintain operational efficiency in a challenging economic environment. Focusing on agility and adaptability is key to success.

02/12/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Retailers Push White House to Mediate Port Labor Talks

Retailers Push White House to Mediate Port Labor Talks

The NRF is urging the White House to intervene in the labor negotiations between the ILA and USMX to prevent a potential port strike. The NRF warns that a strike would severely damage the retail industry and the overall economy. Disruptions caused by a port strike would further exacerbate existing supply chain challenges and negatively impact businesses and consumers nationwide. The NRF emphasizes the urgency of finding a resolution to avoid significant economic consequences.

02/12/2026 Logistics
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East Coast Port Strike Threatens Retail Supply Chains

East Coast Port Strike Threatens Retail Supply Chains

The NRF and others are urging the White House to intervene in the dockworkers' labor negotiations to avert a potential strike in October. The threatened strike poses a risk to the retail industry and could negatively impact the economy. They hope the White House will facilitate an agreement to ensure continued port operations and prevent further disruptions to the supply chain. A strike could exacerbate existing supply chain challenges and lead to significant economic consequences.

02/12/2026 Logistics
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US Truck Driver Shortage Disrupts Supply Chains Amid High Turnover

US Truck Driver Shortage Disrupts Supply Chains Amid High Turnover

The American Trucking Associations reports a persistently rising truck driver turnover rate, particularly among large carriers. This exacerbates the existing driver shortage, posing a threat to supply chain stability. The industry is actively responding by increasing compensation, improving working conditions, and implementing various strategies to attract and retain talent, thereby safeguarding the economic lifeline. The driver shortage and high turnover are key challenges impacting the efficiency and reliability of freight transportation across the US.

02/12/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Small Business Confidence Falls on Inflation Policy Fears

US Small Business Confidence Falls on Inflation Policy Fears

The NFIB Small Business Optimism Index unexpectedly fell to 98.8 in September, below expectations, primarily driven by inflationary pressures, declining sales expectations, and labor market challenges. The Uncertainty Index surged to the fourth highest level in 51 years, reflecting small business owners' concerns about future economic policy direction. Small business owners are closely monitoring policy changes, and future confidence will depend on inflation control, labor market improvements, and the stability of the policy environment.

02/12/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Miami Port Expands Infrastructure to Enhance Southeast Trade

Miami Port Expands Infrastructure to Enhance Southeast Trade

PortMiami is undergoing significant infrastructure upgrades, including deepening its navigation channel, restoring on-dock rail service, and constructing tunnels. These projects aim to enhance the port's competitiveness, accommodate mega-ships, accelerate cargo turnaround times, and alleviate traffic congestion. These initiatives will position PortMiami as a key logistics hub connecting Latin America, Asia, and the Southeastern United States, fostering regional economic growth. The upgrades are crucial for handling increased trade volumes and maintaining PortMiami's strategic importance.

02/12/2026 Port Encyclopedia
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