US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads but Loses in Intermodal

US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads but Loses in Intermodal

October 2025 US rail freight data shows a slight increase of 0.3% in carload traffic, but a 4.8% year-over-year decrease in intermodal volume. Shipments of nonmetallic minerals, metallic ores, and chemicals increased, while grain, miscellaneous, and coal shipments declined. Year-to-date, total carload traffic is up 2.0% and intermodal volume is up 3.2%. The data reflects economic structural changes and market uncertainties, requiring the rail industry to address challenges and seize opportunities.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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West Coast Imports Surge Amid Rising Consumer Spending

West Coast Imports Surge Amid Rising Consumer Spending

North American intermodal volumes continued their growth trajectory at the start of Q4 2023, driven by surging West Coast imports and resilient consumer spending, according to IANA data. International standard container volumes experienced a significant increase, while trailer volumes declined. The intermodal market faces both challenges and opportunities moving forward, requiring continuous innovation to adapt to evolving market dynamics. The growth highlights the importance of intermodal solutions in managing increasing freight demand and port congestion.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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Trump Tariff Threat Targets Chinas Growing Pet Industry

Trump Tariff Threat Targets Chinas Growing Pet Industry

Trump's proposed tariff increases on Chinese goods threaten the pet industry. Some companies are responding by building factories overseas, but most small and medium-sized enterprises are under pressure. The industry needs to increase research and development, expand markets, strengthen brand building, and accelerate digital transformation to meet these challenges and achieve sustainable development. The tariff policy creates uncertainty and necessitates proactive adaptation strategies for pet businesses to remain competitive in the global market.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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US Nonmanufacturing Sector Growth Slows but Remains Resilient in January

US Nonmanufacturing Sector Growth Slows but Remains Resilient in January

The ISM's January report indicates a slight decrease in non-manufacturing activity to 56.7, marking the 108th consecutive month of growth. Business activity and new orders indices declined, while the employment index rose, and the prices index continued to increase. Performance varied across industries, with the government shutdown introducing uncertainty. Experts anticipate continued growth, albeit at a slower pace. Businesses should closely monitor macroeconomic conditions, policy environment, and changes in market demand.

02/03/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Trucking Rebounds in January Hinting at Economic Growth

US Trucking Rebounds in January Hinting at Economic Growth

According to the American Trucking Associations, U.S. trucking volume rebounded strongly in January 2019, with a seasonally adjusted index increase of 2.3%. While the year-over-year growth was slightly below the 2018 full-year average, it still indicates economic vitality. This analysis examines key factors influencing trucking volume, including macroeconomics, consumer spending, and capacity. It also previews future opportunities and challenges for the industry, emphasizing its crucial role as an economic barometer.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Trucking Volumes Reflect Mixed Economic Signals

US Trucking Volumes Reflect Mixed Economic Signals

October freight data from the American Trucking Associations (ATA) reveals a month-over-month decrease but a significant year-over-year increase, interpreted by experts as a sign of a potentially stronger-than-expected economy. While industry observers remain cautious, the growth in heavy freight and positive performance in dry van trucking suggest a future with both opportunities and challenges. The data indicates underlying economic strength, despite potential short-term fluctuations in demand.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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Ecommerce Warehouses Adopt Efficiency Strategies to Boost ROI

Ecommerce Warehouses Adopt Efficiency Strategies to Boost ROI

This paper focuses on improving operational efficiency in e-commerce warehouses. It proposes seven key strategies, including precise inventory management, optimized warehouse layout, standardized operating procedures, optimized picking strategies, enhanced employee efficiency, data analysis utilization, and continuous improvement. These strategies require minimal investment yet can significantly increase warehouse efficiency, leading to a higher return on investment. The implementation of these strategies will allow e-commerce businesses to streamline their warehouse operations and achieve greater profitability.

02/04/2026 Warehousing
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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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US Truckload Spot Rates Rise Despite Falling September Volumes

US Truckload Spot Rates Rise Despite Falling September Volumes

US truckload spot market volume declined in September, but rates edged up slightly, indicating weak demand and capacity imbalance. Analysts anticipate a lackluster peak season, putting pressure on carriers. Market participants need to monitor economic conditions, fuel prices, driver shortages, and regulations. Despite lower volumes, the rate increase suggests some resilience in the market, potentially driven by specific regional demands or short-term capacity constraints. However, the overall outlook remains cautious amid broader economic uncertainties.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Crossborder Sellers Face Rising Demurrage and Detention Fees

Crossborder Sellers Face Rising Demurrage and Detention Fees

This article delves into the causes and differences between ocean freight detention and demurrage fees. It provides a practical guide for cross-border e-commerce sellers, encompassing 'pre-emptive prevention + in-process intervention + post-event appeal' strategies to effectively reduce logistics costs and increase profit margins. By precisely controlling free time, ensuring accurate documentation, and flexibly adjusting container return plans, this guide aims to facilitate a smoother cross-border e-commerce journey for sellers.

02/04/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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