Los Angeles and Long Beach Ports See September Surge Ahead of Holidays

Los Angeles and Long Beach Ports See September Surge Ahead of Holidays

The Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach experienced record-breaking throughput in September, signaling a potentially strong holiday shopping season for retailers. The surge in imports reflects proactive inventory building by retailers, but also highlights challenges related to port congestion and capacity constraints. This report analyzes the drivers behind the throughput growth and proposes recommendations for improving port efficiency and optimizing the supply chain. The goal is to address these challenges and ensure sustainable growth for the retail sector during peak seasons and beyond.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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Convenience Bee Thrived in Retail Freeze with Digital Pivot

Convenience Bee Thrived in Retail Freeze with Digital Pivot

Facing the retail winter brought by the pandemic, Bianlifeng achieved growth against the trend with its digital operation model, strong supply chain system, and forward-looking omni-channel layout. Through the digital operation of "one person, one store," self-built fresh food bases and logistics systems, and persistence in online channels, Bianlifeng demonstrated high risk resistance. This sets a paradigm for digital transformation in the industry. Its success highlights the importance of leveraging technology and building a resilient infrastructure to navigate challenging economic conditions.

02/11/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Rail Freight Struggles Carloads Dip Intermodal Flat

US Rail Freight Struggles Carloads Dip Intermodal Flat

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight performance diverged in the week ending November 4th. Carload traffic decreased by 5.2% year-over-year, although the decline narrowed compared to previous weeks. Intermodal traffic increased by 1.5% year-over-year, but the growth rate slowed. Year-to-date figures show carload traffic remaining roughly flat, while intermodal traffic is down 7.0% year-over-year. Key challenges facing the rail freight market include economic downturn risks, supply chain restructuring, technological changes, and sustainability concerns.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Sees Carload Drop Container Gains in November

US Rail Freight Sees Carload Drop Container Gains in November

Data from the Association of American Railroads indicates a mixed performance for the U.S. rail freight market in early November. Railcar loadings decreased by 5.2% year-over-year, although certain sectors like automotive and parts saw growth. Container volume experienced a slight increase of 1.5%, but the growth rate has slowed. Year-to-date figures show railcar loadings remaining relatively flat, while container volume has declined by 7%. Logistics managers should closely monitor market trends, diversify transportation methods, optimize supply chain management, and strengthen risk management strategies.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Volume Drops Prompting Business Adjustments

US Rail Freight Volume Drops Prompting Business Adjustments

Recent data indicates a year-over-year decline in U.S. rail freight and intermodal volumes, though performance varies across sectors. Automotive and parts, and nonmetallic minerals, experienced growth. The North American market is generally weak, and cross-border trade faces challenges. Companies should diversify transportation modes, optimize supply chain management, monitor policy changes, and actively embrace technological innovation to identify new growth opportunities. The key is to adapt to the changing landscape and find niche areas for expansion amidst the overall downturn in rail freight volume.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Declines in April but Maintains Annual Growth

US Rail Freight Declines in April but Maintains Annual Growth

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight and intermodal volumes decreased year-over-year in mid-April, but cumulative volumes remained up for the year. Freight saw increases in chemicals and coal, while grain, metallic ores, and petroleum declined. Intermodal continues to face challenges. Overall, rail transport in North America declined. Key influencing factors include macroeconomic conditions, supply chain dynamics, and industry structural changes. Future focus should be on long-term trends, addressing challenges, and building an efficient intermodal transportation system.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Coal Gains Offset Broader Demand Slump

US Rail Freight Coal Gains Offset Broader Demand Slump

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight and intermodal traffic decreased year-over-year for the week ending May 21st. While coal carloads saw an increase, categories like grain and metals declined. Cumulative data shows a slight increase in rail freight volume but a decrease in intermodal volume. Economic downturn, supply chain issues, and changing consumer patterns are major contributing factors. The future market outlook remains uncertain. This decline reflects broader economic trends and highlights the challenges facing the rail industry.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Growth Uneven in May Key Sectors Gain

US Rail Freight Growth Uneven in May Key Sectors Gain

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail traffic and intermodal volumes declined year-over-year in May, although commodities like crushed stone, motor vehicles, and food products experienced growth. The AAR suggests the data reflects a mixed economic picture. Overall rail traffic volumes edged up slightly in the first five months, while intermodal volumes decreased. Future rail freight development hinges on macroeconomic conditions, supply chains, geopolitical factors, and industry transformation. The performance of specific sectors highlights the nuanced nature of the current economic environment.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Growth Mixed As Carloads Rise Intermodal Declines

US Rail Freight Growth Mixed As Carloads Rise Intermodal Declines

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail carloads increased by 3.4% for the week ending August 27, driven by gains in coal, grain, and motor vehicle parts. However, intermodal container and trailer volume decreased by 0.3% year-over-year. Year-to-date, carloads are up slightly by 0.1%, while intermodal volume has declined significantly by 5.3%, reflecting ongoing supply chain challenges and shifting demand patterns. This divergence highlights the complex dynamics influencing the rail freight sector and its role as an economic indicator.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Mixed As Carloads Rise Containers Fall in July

US Rail Freight Mixed As Carloads Rise Containers Fall in July

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail carload traffic increased by 1.1% year-over-year in late July, while container volume decreased by 2.5% year-over-year. The carload traffic growth was mainly driven by automobiles, coal, and agricultural products, while the decline was influenced by metallic ores, petroleum, etc. The decrease in container volume may be related to port congestion, labor shortages, and slowing consumer demand. Businesses need to pay attention to data changes and adjust their supply chain strategies accordingly.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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