US Freight Volumes Decline in September Amid Steady Growth Trend

US Freight Volumes Decline in September Amid Steady Growth Trend

According to the American Trucking Associations, U.S. freight volumes slightly decreased in September, but still increased year-over-year. Economists believe this short-term pullback doesn't change the long-term positive trend, citing rebuilding demand, lower inventories, and manufacturing improvements as supporting future growth. Data analysts should focus on seasonal adjustments, year-over-year and month-over-month changes, and the weighting of driving factors. They should also be aware of risks such as capacity constraints and fuel price fluctuations. The overall outlook remains positive despite the slight dip.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Trucking Hits Record Freight Volume Amid Economic Recovery Signs

US Trucking Hits Record Freight Volume Amid Economic Recovery Signs

American Trucking Associations data shows January freight volume hitting a record high, up 6.5% year-over-year, the best since 2011. Inventory replenishment and a recovering housing market are key drivers. However, fiscal challenges and market uncertainty pose potential risks. Analysts suggest focusing on the non-seasonally adjusted index and being wary of capacity risks. A cautiously optimistic outlook prevails, with attention focused on long-term trends. The strong start to the year suggests continued economic momentum, but careful monitoring of potential headwinds is crucial.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Mixed Carloads Rise Intermodal Falls in January

US Rail Freight Mixed Carloads Rise Intermodal Falls in January

US rail freight performance diverged in January 2023: carload volume increased by 4.2% while intermodal container volume decreased by 7%. Key influencing factors include the overall economic climate, ongoing supply chain dynamics, and relevant policy decisions. The contrasting trends highlight the complex interplay of these elements impacting the rail freight sector during the specified period.

02/03/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Sees Mixed Demand Carloads Rise Intermodal Slows

US Rail Freight Sees Mixed Demand Carloads Rise Intermodal Slows

For the week ending January 14th, U.S. rail freight carload traffic increased by 4.2%, while intermodal traffic decreased by 7%. Year-to-date, carload traffic is up 2.9%, and intermodal traffic is down 9.2%. This suggests a potential shift in freight transportation preferences or underlying economic factors affecting different modes of transport. The diverging trends between carload and intermodal volumes warrant further investigation to understand the driving forces behind these changes.

02/03/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Sees Mixed Results Carloads Rise Containers Fall

US Rail Freight Sees Mixed Results Carloads Rise Containers Fall

According to the Association of American Railroads, for the week ending January 21st, US rail carload traffic increased year-over-year, while container traffic decreased. Significant increases were seen in nonmetallic minerals and coal, while chemicals, grain, and forest products declined. North American rail traffic showed a similar trend, with carload growth offset by container decline, resulting in a slight overall volume decrease. This divergence reflects the current complex economic landscape, indicating both challenges and opportunities.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Volumes Drop in September Raising Economic Worries

US Rail Freight Volumes Drop in September Raising Economic Worries

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows that U.S. rail freight and intermodal traffic both declined year-over-year in the third week of September. Gains in grain and metallic ores were offset by decreases in coal, miscellaneous carloads, and nonmetallic minerals. Despite the recent downturn, year-to-date rail freight and intermodal traffic remain up compared to the same period last year. This suggests a mixed picture of the economy, with some sectors showing growth while others are experiencing contraction, as reflected in the varying commodity transport volumes.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Intermodal Freight Volumes Decline in October Amid Tariff Worries

US Intermodal Freight Volumes Decline in October Amid Tariff Worries

North American Intermodal Association data shows a 2% year-over-year decrease in U.S. intermodal freight volume in October 2025, ending months of consecutive growth. Key influencing factors include tariff policies, economic uncertainty, and industrial weakness. While cumulative freight volume for the year remains positive, the growth rate is slowing. The future intermodal market should focus on key factors such as tariffs, consumer spending, inventory levels, and capacity supply, while also strengthening innovation and international cooperation.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Rises in August on Chemicals Intermodal Demand

US Rail Freight Rises in August on Chemicals Intermodal Demand

US rail freight volume increased in August, driven by chemicals and minerals, while petroleum and grain declined. Looking long-term, economic recovery and infrastructure investment are expected to drive positive market trends. The growth in specific sectors highlights shifts in demand and production, reflecting broader economic activity. Despite declines in some commodities, the overall increase in rail freight suggests a resilient supply chain and continued industrial output. Further monitoring of these trends will be crucial for understanding the pace and direction of economic recovery.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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Amazon FBA Sellers Turn to Air Freight for Faster Shipping

Amazon FBA Sellers Turn to Air Freight for Faster Shipping

This article provides an in-depth analysis of the operational processes and cost structure of international air freight for FBA first leg, offering a detailed guide for Amazon sellers. It covers key steps including power of attorney signing, cargo preparation, booking, customs declaration, customs clearance, and delivery. The article also breaks down various cost components such as air freight charges, customs declaration fees, and customs clearance fees, helping sellers achieve efficient warehouse entry and reduce overall costs. This guide aims to optimize the FBA first leg process via air freight.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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GAO Calls for Improved DOT Freight and Highway Project Selection

GAO Calls for Improved DOT Freight and Highway Project Selection

A U.S. Government Accountability Office report reveals deficiencies in the Department of Transportation's FASTLANE program regarding freight and highway project selection. Issues include a lack of transparency and inadequate evaluation planning. The report recommends improvements, emphasizing the need for clear evaluation criteria and documented decision-making processes. These changes aim to enhance the efficiency and fairness of project selection, ensuring effective utilization of funds and promoting government accountability. Addressing these shortcomings is crucial for optimizing transportation infrastructure investments.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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