US Rail Freight Mixed Carloads Fall Container Traffic Rises

US Rail Freight Mixed Carloads Fall Container Traffic Rises

U.S. rail freight traffic decreased by 5.2% year-over-year, although carload, agricultural products, and petroleum shipments increased. Container traffic growth slowed. This reflects the structural adjustment of the U.S. economy, indicating a need for businesses to embrace digital transformation to adapt to the changing landscape and maintain competitiveness. The shift in commodity transportation highlights evolving consumer demands and supply chain dynamics, requiring businesses to optimize their operations and logistics strategies.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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Freight Market Stability Hides Potential Shifts FTR Reports

Freight Market Stability Hides Potential Shifts FTR Reports

The FTR Shippers Conditions Index (SCI) is a key indicator for assessing the freight market environment. Recent data shows the SCI remains stable, but rising fuel prices and declining freight rates suggest a weaker market outlook for 2024. Shippers should monitor market dynamics, optimize transportation networks, strengthen capacity management, adopt advanced technologies, implement flexible pricing strategies, and improve service quality to cope with potential market fluctuations and increasing competition.

02/11/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Rail Freight Decline Signals Economic Concerns

US Rail Freight Decline Signals Economic Concerns

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows that U.S. rail freight and intermodal traffic declined year-over-year for the week ending July 16th, potentially signaling an economic slowdown. Among specific categories, nonmetallic minerals, farm products and food, and motor vehicles and parts saw increases, while coal, miscellaneous carloads, and grain decreased. Businesses should optimize supply chains, diversify transportation methods, strengthen cost control, and embrace digitalization to address these challenges.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Loses in Intermodal

US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Loses in Intermodal

For the week ending August 27th, U.S. rail carload traffic increased by 3.4% year-over-year, with coal, grain, and automotive sectors leading the growth. Intermodal container and trailer traffic saw a slight decrease of 0.3% compared to the same period last year. Businesses should closely monitor market trends, optimize supply chain management, diversify transportation modes, embrace technological innovation, and strengthen risk management to seize opportunities and address challenges.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads but Declines in Intermodal

US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads but Declines in Intermodal

According to the Association of American Railroads (AAR) data, for the week ending August 20th, U.S. rail carloads increased by 2.9% year-over-year, while intermodal traffic decreased by 2.4% year-over-year. Carload growth was driven by commodities such as coal and grain. Supply chain bottlenecks and rising fuel prices constrained intermodal transportation. The North American rail market is progressing steadily and needs to strengthen cooperation to meet challenges.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Volumes Decline Amid Demand Uncertainty

US Rail Freight Volumes Decline Amid Demand Uncertainty

U.S. rail freight volume and intermodal traffic both declined year-over-year. Grain shipments increased, but other commodities decreased. The primary drivers behind this downturn are economic slowdown, persistent supply chain issues, and the ongoing energy transition. These factors are collectively impacting the demand for rail transportation across various sectors. The decline highlights the sensitivity of rail freight to broader economic trends and ongoing shifts in the energy landscape.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Data Shows Mixed Economic Signals

US Rail Freight Data Shows Mixed Economic Signals

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail carloads decreased by 2% year-over-year last week, while intermodal traffic increased by 2.8%. For the first 41 weeks of the year, carload volume showed a slight increase, while intermodal volume experienced a decline. These figures provide insights into the current state of the freight transportation sector and can be used as economic indicators, reflecting overall business activity and consumer demand.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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E2open CEO Outlines Supply Chain Resilience Plans Amid Freight Slump

E2open CEO Outlines Supply Chain Resilience Plans Amid Freight Slump

E2open CEO discusses logistics challenges, emphasizing supply chain diversification and resilience. Digital transformation is crucial for businesses to navigate market changes and seize opportunities. Building a robust and adaptable supply chain is paramount in today's volatile environment. Diversifying sourcing and transportation options helps mitigate risks. Embracing digital technologies enables real-time visibility and informed decision-making, ultimately strengthening the supply chain's ability to withstand disruptions and maintain operational efficiency.

02/12/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Freight Index Rises for Fifth Month Amid Economic Growth

US Freight Index Rises for Fifth Month Amid Economic Growth

The US Freight Transportation Services Index (Freight TSI) has grown for five consecutive months, signaling economic recovery. The January index reached 138.9, surpassing pre-pandemic levels but remaining below historical peaks. Waterborne, pipeline, and trucking freight increased, while air freight and rail freight declined. The pandemic has accelerated industry transformation, with digitalization and sustainability becoming trends. A cautiously optimistic approach is needed, with attention to supply chain, labor, and geopolitical risks.

02/12/2026 Logistics
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Guide to FOB Trade Managing Freight and Risk

Guide to FOB Trade Managing Freight and Risk

This article provides an in-depth analysis of the operational procedures for nominated cargo under FOB trade terms, emphasizing the importance of information communication and instruction execution. It details potential risks such as release of goods without original Bill of Lading and cost settlement issues, along with corresponding mitigation strategies. The article also compares and contrasts the differences and applications of HBL, MBL, and OBL, offering comprehensive operational guidance and risk prevention advice for export companies. This aims to help exporters navigate the complexities of FOB shipments and minimize potential losses.

08/21/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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