US Rail Freight Auto Petroleum Up As Coal Declines

US Rail Freight Auto Petroleum Up As Coal Declines

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight traffic decreased by 7.9% year-over-year for the week ending May 9, while intermodal traffic increased by 3.8%, showing a diverging trend. Shipments of motor vehicles & parts and petroleum products increased, while coal shipments decreased significantly. Year-to-date, rail freight traffic is down 1.8%, and intermodal traffic is up 1.7%. Rail freight companies need to actively transform and expand their intermodal transportation business.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Automotive Grain Up As Intermodal Lags

US Rail Freight Automotive Grain Up As Intermodal Lags

The Association of American Railroads (AAR) reported a mixed performance in U.S. rail freight for the week ending March 21. Traditional carload traffic saw a slight year-over-year decrease, but grain and automotive shipments performed strongly. Intermodal volume, however, bucked the trend and increased. Year-to-date figures show a small increase in carload volume, while intermodal volume experienced a slight decline. The U.S. rail freight market is undergoing a transformation and upgrade, requiring proactive responses to challenges and the seizing of opportunities.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Sees Mixed Trends Carloads Rise Intermodal Falls

US Rail Freight Sees Mixed Trends Carloads Rise Intermodal Falls

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail carload traffic increased by 2% for the week ending September 17, with coal, nonmetallic minerals, and motor vehicles leading the gains. Intermodal traffic, however, decreased by 7.3%. Year-to-date, carload traffic is up slightly by 0.3%, while intermodal traffic is down 5.1%. Total North American rail volume also declined year-over-year. These diverging trends are influenced by various factors. Railroad companies need to proactively address challenges and seize opportunities in the future.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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US Nonmanufacturing Sector Expands Steadily in May ISM

US Nonmanufacturing Sector Expands Steadily in May ISM

The Institute for Supply Management (ISM) reported robust growth in the U.S. non-manufacturing sector for May, with the NMI index reaching 56.9, marking the 112th consecutive month of expansion. Eleven industries experienced growth, with a notable increase in the employment indicator. Experts suggest that despite challenges like trade tensions, consumer confidence and low inflation are providing tailwinds for the economy. Overall, the non-manufacturing sector is outperforming the manufacturing sector.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Service Sector Growth Slows As Inflation Persists

US Service Sector Growth Slows As Inflation Persists

The US Services PMI has grown for five consecutive months, albeit at a slower pace, with persistent price pressures. Sub-indices present a mixed picture, and industry performance is divergent. Experts interpret this as a return to trend, while businesses are concerned about policy impacts. Looking ahead, macroeconomic conditions, inflation, interest rates, policy changes, and technological innovation will collectively shape the development of the services sector.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Manufacturing Activity Holds Steady Amid Minor Decline

US Manufacturing Activity Holds Steady Amid Minor Decline

Although the US ISM Manufacturing PMI edged down slightly in February, it remained above the 50 threshold, indicating continued expansion in the manufacturing sector. Key indicators such as new orders, production, and employment all maintained growth. Rising prices and faster delivery speeds reflect adjustments in supply and demand. Analysis suggests the manufacturing industry is developing steadily. Businesses should adapt flexibly to market changes, and the government needs to provide continuous support.

01/30/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Bank of America Freight Index Shows Signs of Stabilizing

Bank of America Freight Index Shows Signs of Stabilizing

The Bank of America Freight Payment Index indicates a continued decline in U.S. freight volumes and spending in Q2, but the contraction is slowing, potentially signaling a market bottom. Regional freight performance varies, with consumer spending shifting towards services and persistent high inflation impacting the freight market. Analysts suggest that the triple pressure of low volumes, low rates, and high costs may lead to further capacity reduction in the industry. The reduced decline could be a positive sign, but challenges remain.

01/30/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Rail Freight Rises Intermodal Surges in Early March

US Rail Freight Rises Intermodal Surges in Early March

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight and intermodal volume both increased year-over-year for the week ending March 8, 2025. However, year-to-date, total carload traffic is down 1.5%, while intermodal volume is up 8.4%. Coal and grain shipments increased, while metallic ores, chemicals, and forest products declined. Railroad companies should capitalize on intermodal opportunities and address freight challenges to achieve sustainable growth.

01/30/2026 Logistics
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US Service Sector Growth Slows in Latest PMI Report

US Service Sector Growth Slows in Latest PMI Report

The US Services PMI has grown for five consecutive months, but the growth rate is slowing. Declines in several sub-indices suggest future challenges. There is divergence within the industry, and inflationary pressures persist. Businesses need to strengthen risk management, optimize supply chains, and innovate service models to cope with a complex and volatile market environment. The slower growth and persistent inflation highlight potential headwinds for the service sector.

01/30/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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