Port Houston Enhances Cargo Flow with Rail Upgrades

Port Houston Enhances Cargo Flow with Rail Upgrades

Union Pacific and BNSF Railway have launched new intermodal services at Port Houston, aiming to improve freight transportation efficiency and alleviate traffic congestion by streamlining processes and reducing truck drayage. This initiative will enhance Port Houston's competitiveness as the fifth-largest container port in the United States, offering businesses faster delivery times, lower transportation costs, and increased supply chain reliability. The new service is expected to benefit shippers moving goods through the port, providing a more efficient and sustainable transportation option.

01/16/2026 Logistics
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Schneider Intermodal Addresses Rising Detention Delays in Supply Chain

Schneider Intermodal Addresses Rising Detention Delays in Supply Chain

Schneider Electric's intermodal customers are experiencing a 70% surge in unloading delays, highlighting significant supply chain bottlenecks. These delays stem from a combination of factors including increased freight volumes, labor shortages, and rail congestion. Schneider plans to mitigate the issue by increasing container availability, optimizing resources, and collaborating with rail companies and customers. Intermodal is a key growth area for Schneider, committed to sustainable development, but addressing unloading delays is crucial for improving overall supply chain efficiency and maintaining customer satisfaction.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Rail Freight and Intermodal Volumes Increase Despite Economic Challenges

US Rail Freight and Intermodal Volumes Increase Despite Economic Challenges

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight and intermodal volume increased year-over-year for the week ending March 20, but growth slowed. Freight volume performance varied across commodities, while intermodal was constrained by port congestion. Cumulative data presents a mixed picture, and the full-year trend remains to be seen. The rail transport industry faces challenges such as aging infrastructure and labor shortages, but also opportunities from economic recovery and environmental policies. Overall performance needs further observation.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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Global Supply Chain Disruptions Prolong Lead Times for Businesses

Global Supply Chain Disruptions Prolong Lead Times for Businesses

The global supply chain faces severe challenges, with lead times reaching record highs and accelerating due to port congestion, raw material shortages, and labor shortages. Companies are actively responding by exploring alternative ports, using air freight instead of sea freight, and planning ahead. Labor shortage is the most significant challenge, with unsustainable price levels. It is recommended that companies strengthen risk management, diversify suppliers, optimize inventory, and embrace digital transformation to mitigate these disruptions and build resilience in the face of ongoing uncertainty.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Import Surge Strains Supply Chains Ahead of Holidays

US Import Surge Strains Supply Chains Ahead of Holidays

Panjiva data indicates strong US imports continued in February, but port congestion, stimulus policies, and holiday season demand create uncertainty. Retailers need to monitor market dynamics, adapt flexibly, address supply chain challenges, and seize opportunities. The sustained import strength is tempered by ongoing logistical bottlenecks and economic factors that could impact future performance. Companies must remain vigilant and proactive to navigate the evolving landscape and maintain a competitive edge in the market. Understanding these complexities is crucial for effective planning and decision-making.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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UK to Chengdu Shipping Times Key Trends and Challenges

UK to Chengdu Shipping Times Key Trends and Challenges

This article delves into the timeliness of shipping from the UK to Chengdu, indicating a typical transit time of 30-45 days. It analyzes key influencing factors such as shipping distance, vessel speed, port operations, customs clearance efficiency, and inland transportation. The analysis also highlights the importance of considering cargo characteristics, weather conditions, port congestion, and holidays, which can significantly impact the overall shipping duration. Understanding these elements is crucial for accurate planning and managing expectations for UK-Chengdu sea freight.

01/23/2026 Logistics
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US Ocean Freight Firms Adapt to Peak Season Challenges

US Ocean Freight Firms Adapt to Peak Season Challenges

The US ocean freight peak season typically runs from July to February, characterized by surging volumes, increased rates, port congestion, and tight capacity. Driven by holiday effects, seasonal product demand, inventory buildup, and global supply chains, the peak season presents challenges for shippers. Strategies to mitigate costs and delays include booking in advance, utilizing off-peak shipping, leveraging LCL (Less than Container Load) shipments, and exploring intermodal transportation. By proactively planning and diversifying transportation options, shippers can navigate the peak season more effectively.

01/23/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Expert Identifies Key Supply Chain Bottlenecks in Multimodal Transport

Expert Identifies Key Supply Chain Bottlenecks in Multimodal Transport

Industry expert Larry Gross analyzed the challenges facing multimodal transportation at the RailTrends conference, highlighting port congestion and capacity shortages as key drivers. He argued that trucking acted as a 'safety valve' during the crisis. Looking ahead, Gross emphasized the need for multimodal transportation to enhance resilience and focus on domestic market growth to overcome challenges and seize opportunities. The industry must adapt to the evolving landscape to ensure efficient and reliable transportation solutions in the face of ongoing supply chain disruptions.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Truckload Rates Hit Record High Amid Supply Chain Strain

Truckload Rates Hit Record High Amid Supply Chain Strain

The DAT Truckload Volume Index (TVI) reached a new high, reflecting shippers' willingness to pay a premium to secure freight transportation amid supply chain bottlenecks. The October TVI hit 239, driven by rising spot rates and record-high fuel surcharges. Experts point to port congestion impacting freight volumes, and anticipate a potential decrease in truckload volumes in December. This surge in the TVI highlights the ongoing challenges and increased costs associated with moving goods across the country as businesses compete for limited capacity.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Freight Growth Slows As Costs Remain High

US Freight Growth Slows As Costs Remain High

The Cass Freight Index September report indicates a slowdown in US freight volume growth and a narrowing of freight expenditure increases, primarily due to port congestion and chip shortages. The report highlights the coexistence of capacity bottlenecks and demand-side challenges. Looking ahead, attention should be paid to opportunities arising from economic recovery and technological innovation, as well as the impact of changing consumer spending patterns on freight structure. Investors and businesses should closely monitor market dynamics and maintain a cautiously optimistic outlook.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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