US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads but Loses in Intermodal

US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads but Loses in Intermodal

For the week of November 29, 2025, U.S. rail freight showed a mixed performance. Carload traffic increased by 4.3% year-over-year, driven by higher demand for coal, nonmetallic minerals, and grain. Intermodal traffic decreased by 6.5% year-over-year, potentially due to port congestion and increased competition. Year-to-date figures indicate overall growth in rail freight, but structural adjustments pose ongoing challenges. The increase in carload traffic suggests strong demand in specific commodity sectors, while the decline in intermodal volume warrants further investigation into contributing factors.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Gains in Coal Slumps in Container Traffic

US Rail Freight Gains in Coal Slumps in Container Traffic

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows that for the week ending November 29th, US rail freight traffic increased year-over-year, while intermodal traffic declined, indicating a 'hot carload, cold container' situation. Demand for coal, minerals, and grain is strong, while miscellaneous freight, forest products, and chemicals are down. Year-to-date figures still show growth. However, global economic uncertainties pose challenges. Digital transformation could present opportunities for the rail freight sector to adapt and thrive in the changing landscape.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Sees Mixed Results Carloads Up Intermodal Down

US Rail Freight Sees Mixed Results Carloads Up Intermodal Down

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail carload traffic for the week ending November 29th increased by 4.3% year-over-year, while intermodal volume decreased by 6.5% year-over-year. Year-to-date figures show slight growth in both carload and intermodal traffic. Businesses should closely monitor market dynamics, optimize transportation combinations, strengthen supply chain collaboration, and leverage technology to improve efficiency and reduce costs to navigate market changes.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Volumes Drop Amid Weak Demand Industry Shifts

US Rail Freight Volumes Drop Amid Weak Demand Industry Shifts

The latest data from the Association of American Railroads shows a continued year-over-year decline in U.S. rail freight and intermodal volume, reflecting structural economic changes and weak consumer demand. The report analyzes freight volume changes across various commodity categories, revealing the potential impact of slowing economic growth, weakened corporate profits, reduced job creation, and supply chain disruptions. It also explores the challenges and opportunities facing the rail transportation industry, providing valuable insights for investors and policymakers. This data serves as a key economic indicator.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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Echo Global Logistics Uses Tech to Counter Freight Market Slump

Echo Global Logistics Uses Tech to Counter Freight Market Slump

Echo Global Logistics executive Frank Hurst shared his insights on logistics industry trends at the SMC3 Connections conference. He emphasized the importance of agility and data-driven decision-making, while also analyzing the current freight market conditions. Echo is leveraging technological innovation to improve operational efficiency and optimize inventory management, aiming to navigate market challenges and capitalize on future opportunities. The focus remains on adapting quickly and using data effectively to stay ahead in the rapidly evolving logistics landscape.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Ecommerce Sellers Adapt to Air Freight Challenges for Peak Season

Ecommerce Sellers Adapt to Air Freight Challenges for Peak Season

Strategies for securing international air freight capacity during the peak cross-border e-commerce season (Black Friday, Christmas): Proactive planning to lock in resources, precise channel matching, and flexible response to fluctuations are key. Emphasizing early planning, long-term partnerships, and selection of reliable freight forwarders. Offers advice on various channel options like direct flights and transshipments, along with risk mitigation strategies. Helps sellers successfully secure cargo space during the peak season by optimizing their logistics and being prepared for potential disruptions.

02/03/2026 Logistics
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Chinaus Ocean Freight Transit Times Vary for East West Coasts

Chinaus Ocean Freight Transit Times Vary for East West Coasts

This paper compares ocean shipping times from China to US West and East Coast ports. It analyzes factors influencing transit time, including sailing distance, seasonal fluctuations, vessel type selection, and port efficiency. The paper suggests strategies for time optimization, such as choosing expedited shipping services, utilizing sea-rail intermodal transport, and avoiding peak seasons. This provides a reference for businesses developing efficient international logistics strategies.

02/03/2026 Logistics
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Air Freight Firms Navigate Speed Cost and Customs in Ecommerce

Air Freight Firms Navigate Speed Cost and Customs in Ecommerce

This paper provides an in-depth analysis of international air freight's operational model, timeliness, pricing, customs clearance strategies, and applicable scenarios. It compares the advantages and disadvantages of air freight versus express delivery and analyzes the selection of last-mile delivery methods. The aim is to help cross-border e-commerce sellers better understand air freight, enabling them to choose the most suitable logistics solutions and improve operational efficiency. This includes optimizing for speed, cost, and navigating complex customs procedures for successful international shipments.

02/03/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Thai Durian Air Freight Costs to China Surge Amid Demand

Thai Durian Air Freight Costs to China Surge Amid Demand

This article provides an in-depth analysis of the cost structure for air-freighting Thai durian to China, covering air freight, tariffs, and surcharges. It also explores the issues of timeliness and preservation. Considering all expenses, the total cost of air-freighting Thai durian to China typically ranges from 30 to 50 RMB per kilogram. The article further examines the opportunities and challenges for Thai durian in the Chinese market.

02/03/2026 Logistics
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ATA Data Shows Freight Market Growth Potential in Second Half

ATA Data Shows Freight Market Growth Potential in Second Half

The American Trucking Associations (ATA) reported a decrease in freight tonnage for June, but experts believe this is a short-term fluctuation. They maintain that the underlying economic fundamentals are solid, with factors like declining inventories and manufacturing improvements expected to drive growth in the second half of the year. The industry anticipates more opportunities from the peak season and ELD implementation. Logistics companies should monitor market dynamics, optimize operations, expand their businesses, and strengthen collaborations to seize these opportunities.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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