US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Loses in Intermodal for November 2025

US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Loses in Intermodal for November 2025

U.S. rail freight data for the last week of November 2025 presents a mixed picture. Carload traffic increased by 4.3% year-over-year, with strong performance in coal, nonmetallic minerals, and grain. However, intermodal traffic decreased by 6.5% year-over-year, potentially due to supply chain factors. Year-to-date figures indicate steady growth in rail freight. Businesses should closely monitor market trends, optimize supply chains, diversify transportation modes, and strengthen risk management to navigate challenges and capitalize on opportunities.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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Cass Freight Index Reveals Key Trends in Cargo Market

Cass Freight Index Reveals Key Trends in Cargo Market

The latest Cass Freight Index reveals a mixed picture for the freight market in November: while shipment volumes slightly decreased, expenditures continued to rise. Experts believe the market is generally stable, but declining imports suggest a potential softening of short-term trends. Businesses should closely monitor market dynamics, optimize operational efficiency, embrace digital transformation, and strengthen risk management to seize opportunities in a complex and volatile market environment. Overall, the index highlights the need for agility and strategic planning in navigating the current logistics landscape.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Rail Freight Carloads Up Intermodal Traffic Down

US Rail Freight Carloads Up Intermodal Traffic Down

According to the Association of American Railroads, for the week ending August 27th, U.S. rail carload traffic increased by 3.4% year-over-year, while intermodal containers and trailers decreased by 0.3%. In the first 34 weeks of 2022, carload traffic rose by 0.1% year-over-year, but intermodal traffic fell by 5.3%. These figures highlight the complexity of the U.S. economy. Investors should analyze the data rationally and seize opportunities.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Growth Steady Despite Mixed Signals AAR

US Rail Freight Growth Steady Despite Mixed Signals AAR

The latest report from the Association of American Railroads (AAR) indicates that U.S. rail freight and intermodal volumes both decreased year-over-year for the week ending September 13th. However, rail freight maintains a steady long-term growth trend. While shipments of chemicals, automobiles, and parts increased, traditional freight categories like coal face challenges. Digital transformation, sustainability, and intermodal transportation are expected to be key trends for future development. The report suggests a mixed picture, reflecting both short-term fluctuations and long-term strategic shifts in the rail freight industry.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Volume Rises in Early August

US Rail Freight Volume Rises in Early August

For the week ending August 2, 2025, U.S. rail freight and intermodal traffic both showed year-over-year growth. Total rail carloads increased by 6.4%, while intermodal containers and trailers grew by 0.2%. Year-to-date, total rail carloads are up 2.8%, and intermodal volume has increased by 4.7%. These figures suggest a degree of activity in the U.S. economy, but future development remains subject to various influencing factors.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Declines in September Despite Annual Growth

US Rail Freight Declines in September Despite Annual Growth

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight and intermodal traffic declined year-over-year in late September, but cumulative volumes remain up for the year. Grain and metallic ores shipments increased, while coal, miscellaneous carloads, and nonmetallic minerals declined. Macroeconomic factors, industry trends, and geopolitical issues influence freight volumes. A cautiously optimistic outlook is warranted, focusing on risks, technological innovation, and improved transportation efficiency.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Growth Mixed in September YTD Up

US Rail Freight Growth Mixed in September YTD Up

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows that for the week ending September 20th, U.S. rail carloads and intermodal traffic both decreased year-over-year, primarily due to factors such as weak coal demand. However, cumulative data for the year still indicates growth. This article provides an in-depth analysis of the key factors influencing rail freight and looks ahead to future challenges and opportunities, emphasizing the importance of focusing on long-term trends.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Rises Slightly on Intermodal Demand

US Rail Freight Rises Slightly on Intermodal Demand

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight traffic experienced a slight increase in late September. Carload traffic rose by 0.9% year-over-year, while intermodal traffic increased by 1.1%. Performance varied across commodity categories, with gains in nonmetallic minerals, grain, and motor vehicle parts. Coal, petroleum, and metallic ores saw declines. Year-to-date figures show growth in both carload and intermodal traffic. However, the market continues to face challenges including energy transition and technological innovation.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Dips in Intermodal

US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Dips in Intermodal

Recent data indicates a slight increase in U.S. rail carload freight, while intermodal transportation faces a decline. Commodities like nonmetallic minerals and grains show strong performance, while automobiles & parts and coal face challenges. Although cumulative data suggests a positive overall trend, railway companies need to pay attention to market changes and actively address risks to achieve sustainable development. The slight carload increase is offset by intermodal weakness, requiring strategic adaptation. The future success depends on navigating these contrasting trends.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Mixed in Early November Carloads Rise Intermodal Falls

US Rail Freight Mixed in Early November Carloads Rise Intermodal Falls

For the week ending November 8, 2025, U.S. rail carload traffic saw a slight increase of 0.1%, while intermodal volume decreased by 8.7% year-over-year. Shipments of nonmetallic minerals and grain increased, while automotive parts and coal shipments declined. Year-to-date freight volume remains on a growth trajectory. However, railway companies need to pay attention to challenges arising from macroeconomic factors, supply chains, and the energy transition.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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