US Rail Freight Volumes Drop Amid Economic Slowdown

US Rail Freight Volumes Drop Amid Economic Slowdown

Data from the Association of American Railroads indicates a year-over-year decrease in U.S. rail freight and intermodal volumes in late August. While automotive and petroleum product demand remained strong, coal and grain shipments faced headwinds. Year-to-date figures present a mixed picture, with intermodal continuing to show weakness. Factors such as economic slowdown, supply chain challenges, and energy transition are impacting freight volumes. Railroads need to enhance efficiency, expand services, strengthen customer relationships, and embrace digitalization and sustainability to navigate these challenges.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Rebounds in June As Intermodal Offsets Coal Decline

US Rail Freight Rebounds in June As Intermodal Offsets Coal Decline

U.S. rail freight data for June 2011 presented a mixed picture. Total freight volume increased year-over-year, but coal shipments declined. Intermodal transportation was a bright spot, although its growth rate slowed. Metallic ores and forest products showed strong performance. Railroad employment increased, and capacity was sufficient. Future trends will depend on economic recovery, supply chain stability, and energy policies. The data suggests cautious optimism with potential headwinds in the coal sector and a need to monitor intermodal growth for sustained positive impact.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Mixed in May Intermodal Gains Steady

US Rail Freight Mixed in May Intermodal Gains Steady

According to the latest data from the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight volume in May remained flat year-over-year, but intermodal traffic experienced strong growth. Intermodal transportation benefits from tight trucking capacity and corporate cost reduction demands, and is expected to maintain its growth momentum. The overall rail freight market reflects economic uncertainty. The industry needs to address challenges such as energy transition and manufacturing reshoring, while actively embracing technological innovation. The growth in intermodal offsets the weakness in other rail segments.

01/22/2026 Logistics
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Dachser Deploys Hydrogen Trucks for Zeroemission Logistics in Europe

Dachser Deploys Hydrogen Trucks for Zeroemission Logistics in Europe

Dachser is actively deploying hydrogen fuel cell heavy-duty trucks, aiming to build a zero-emission logistics network in Europe. This initiative offers valuable lessons for the transformation of China's road freight. China needs to expand the scale of hydrogen fuel cell trucks, improve hydrogen refueling infrastructure, and increase R&D in hydrogen energy technology to achieve its green freight goals. This includes promoting technological innovation and supporting policy frameworks to facilitate the widespread adoption of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles in the logistics sector.

01/26/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Shale Gas Boom Transforms US Freight Industry

Shale Gas Boom Transforms US Freight Industry

The shale gas revolution is profoundly reshaping US freight logistics. A PwC report highlights that lower energy costs driven by shale gas are fueling manufacturing reshoring, boosting demand for rail and trucking. While pipelines may become dominant in the future, rail and trucking retain advantages. Companies should seize opportunities by optimizing supply chains, investing in LNG trucks, collaborating with rail companies, and monitoring pipeline construction to adapt to the changing landscape. This shift necessitates strategic planning and investment to capitalize on the evolving energy and transportation dynamics.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Freight Platforms Boost Logistics Competitiveness With Enhanced Services

Freight Platforms Boost Logistics Competitiveness With Enhanced Services

Network freight platforms are facing development opportunities and need to upgrade in terms of credit, technology, and service. Policy guidance promotes platform standardization, and leading companies have already achieved successful practices in diversified services. Platforms like China Storage & Transportation Co., Ltd. provide precise services through online and offline integration, building a comprehensive logistics ecosystem. In the future, network freight platforms will play a greater role in the construction of a modern circulation system. They are expected to enhance efficiency and transparency in the logistics industry.

09/28/2025 Logistics Industry Insights
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Shanghai Port Issues Guide on Dangerous Goods Export Classes 29

Shanghai Port Issues Guide on Dangerous Goods Export Classes 29

This article focuses on the export of dangerous goods from Shanghai Port, introducing the extensive experience of a professional dangerous goods specialist in sea freight for hazard classes 2-9. Through case studies and selected articles, it details the export processes and precautions for dangerous goods such as ethyl acrylate, spray adhesive, potassium nitrate, and batteries. The aim is to provide practical guidance for related enterprises, mitigate risks, and improve efficiency in the dangerous goods export process through Shanghai Port.

08/21/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Guide to Lithium Battery LCL Shipping to Rotterdam

Guide to Lithium Battery LCL Shipping to Rotterdam

This article details the process and precautions for exporting lithium batteries to Rotterdam via LCL (Less than Container Load) sea freight. It covers crucial aspects such as the cut-off date, dangerous goods declaration, booking information, warehousing requirements, packaging standards, customs clearance documents, and bill of lading issuance. The aim is to help exporters mitigate risks and ensure the safe and smooth customs clearance of goods. It provides guidance on navigating the complexities of shipping lithium batteries as dangerous goods via LCL.

04/01/2024 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Welly International Enhances Taipeiqingdao LCL Shipping Efficiency

Welly International Enhances Taipeiqingdao LCL Shipping Efficiency

Welly International Enterprise Co., Ltd. specializes in logistics lines between Mainland China and Taiwan, offering sea and air freight services. Their professional team and extensive experience ensure the safe and timely arrival of goods, providing customized solutions. The company is committed to becoming a trusted partner for businesses by optimizing logistics plans and reducing transportation costs. They focus on providing efficient and reliable services for all types of cargo, especially break bulk, solidifying their position as a leader in cross-strait logistics.

08/21/2025 Logistics
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Guide to DDU Bills of Lading and Freight Forwarding Explained

Guide to DDU Bills of Lading and Freight Forwarding Explained

This article provides a detailed interpretation of common terms and operational procedures in international trade, including the responsibilities under DDU, the difference between prepaid and collect sea waybills, identification of genuine containers, key considerations for LCL cargo, types of freight forwarders, and the importance of cargo tracking. It aims to offer practical guidance for professionals engaged in international trade. The focus is on providing clear explanations and actionable insights to improve understanding and efficiency in daily operations within the global trade landscape.

08/21/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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