ODFL expands its network with a new service center in Madison, Wisconsin. This strategic move enhances logistics efficiency in the Midwest, catering to growing freight demands and supporting local business development. The new facility will provide improved transit times and greater service coverage for customers in the region, further solidifying ODFL's commitment to providing reliable and efficient LTL transportation solutions.
FedEx Freight has opened three new service centers in Mexico, significantly reducing transit times and improving pickup flexibility, helping businesses reduce costs and increase efficiency. Through a strategic alliance with Auto Lineas America, they offer comprehensive LTL freight services covering Mexico, the United States, and Canada. Please note that a 6.75% GRI will take effect on September 6th.
According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail traffic showed a mixed picture for the week ending February 15th. Traditional carload traffic decreased by 4.8% year-over-year, dragged down by coal, metals, and chemicals. Intermodal traffic, however, increased by 7.0% year-over-year, although slightly lower than the previous two weeks. Cumulative data for the first eight weeks shows a 0.7% decrease in carload traffic and a 9.3% increase in intermodal traffic. The reshaping of global supply chains and the growth of e-commerce are key drivers of intermodal growth.
The U.S. Freight Transportation Services Index (Freight TSI) reached a record high of 142.4 in June, surpassing the previous peak in August 2019. Despite mixed economic indicators, the increase in freight volume reflects economic resilience. Growth was observed across trucking, rail, air, and water transportation, while rail intermodal and pipeline transportation declined. Businesses should pay close attention to macroeconomic conditions, consumer demand, supply chain dynamics, and regulatory changes to adapt their strategies accordingly.
The U.S. Bureau of Transportation Statistics reported a record high Freight Transportation Services Index (FTSI) in June, with growth across trucking, rail, air, and water transportation. Despite the strong FTSI performance, other economic indicators such as industrial production and housing starts showed a decline, adding uncertainty to the economic outlook. Long-term, freight volumes are still on a steady growth trajectory. Businesses should closely monitor these data to better plan their supply chains and respond to market changes.
The U.S. Freight Transportation Services Index (TSI) reached a record high in June, contrasting with the economic downturn. The report highlights growth drivers across segments like trucking, rail, air, and water, analyzing the impact of consumer demand, supply chain bottlenecks, and economic restructuring on the freight industry. Despite potential future economic challenges, technological innovation and sustainable development will be crucial for maintaining freight sector resilience and supporting overall economic stability. The index suggests a surprising strength in the movement of goods despite broader economic concerns.
For the week ending August 23rd, US rail freight showed mixed results: carload traffic edged up 0.6%, driven by gains in grain and automotive shipments, while petroleum and coal declined. Intermodal traffic decreased by 1.9%, impacted by highway competition and cooling consumer demand. Year-to-date figures remain positive but growth is slowing. Rail companies need to improve services, reduce costs, and expand business, embracing digital transformation to navigate the evolving landscape.
According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail carloads increased by 0.6% for the week ending August 23rd, with grain and automotive shipments performing strongly. However, intermodal traffic decreased by 1.9% year-over-year, potentially indicating a cooling consumer demand. Year-to-date figures still show overall growth in rail freight demand. Looking ahead, rail freight faces challenges such as economic recession risks and labor shortages, but also opportunities including infrastructure investment and sustainable development initiatives. Overall, the sector presents a mixed picture of present growth and future uncertainty.
For the week ending November 8, 2025, U.S. rail carload traffic saw a slight increase of 0.1%, while intermodal volume decreased by 8.7%. Year-to-date growth in both carload and intermodal traffic is slowing down. This suggests a potential shift in freight transportation patterns and warrants further economic analysis regarding the underlying factors influencing these trends in rail freight and intermodal transport.
U.S. rail freight volume has recently declined, but year-to-date totals still show growth. Performance varies across commodity categories, facing economic headwinds and competitive pressures. However, opportunities remain. This analysis examines recent trends in rail freight, utilizing AAR data to provide insights into the market dynamics. It explores the factors contributing to the current situation and identifies potential areas for future growth within the rail freight industry. The report also considers the impact of broader economic conditions on rail freight demand.
