US Rail Freight Coal Chemicals Rise As Intermodal Slows

US Rail Freight Coal Chemicals Rise As Intermodal Slows

US rail freight saw a slight increase in March, with carload traffic up 1.1%, while intermodal traffic decreased by 5.7%. Year-to-date, carload traffic has increased by 3%, but intermodal volume has fallen by 7.1%. This indicates a mixed performance in the rail freight sector, with traditional carload shipments showing positive growth, while intermodal transportation continues to struggle. The overall impact on the supply chain remains to be seen, as these trends may reflect broader economic shifts.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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Freight Volume to Rise Despite Tariff Challenges Boosting Supply Chains

Freight Volume to Rise Despite Tariff Challenges Boosting Supply Chains

Over half of supply chain professionals report that tariffs negatively impact operations, yet most still anticipate freight volume growth through 2026. Software platforms play a crucial role in supply chain management, enhancing responsiveness, execution, and decision-making. Businesses must embrace new technologies to optimize their supply chains and address future challenges. While tariffs create headwinds, the expectation of increased freight volume suggests underlying economic activity and the need for efficient supply chain solutions to manage the growing demand.

02/12/2026 Logistics
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Trucking Industry Faces Freight Recession Amid Market Shifts

Trucking Industry Faces Freight Recession Amid Market Shifts

TranzAct Technologies expert Mike Regan provides an in-depth analysis of the current freight economy, the trucking market, shipper-carrier relationships, and the 2024 peak season. He offers strategic advice for businesses navigating the freight recession, including optimizing the supply chain, strengthening data analytics, flexibly adjusting capacity, enhancing risk management, and investing in technological innovation. These strategies aim to help companies mitigate the impact of the downturn and position themselves for future growth when the market recovers.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Freight Data Signals Potential Recession Risks

Freight Data Signals Potential Recession Risks

This paper delves into the intricate relationship between freight logistics and macroeconomics, analyzing the impact of shifting consumption patterns, inventory levels, inflation, and interest rates on freight volume. The study emphasizes that in the current economic climate, businesses should closely monitor economic indicators, flexibly adjust operations, invest in technology, and strengthen risk management to navigate uncertainty. These strategies are crucial for mitigating potential negative impacts and maintaining operational efficiency during periods of economic downturn and volatility.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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AFS Expert Highlights Key Trends in Freight Logistics Future

AFS Expert Highlights Key Trends in Freight Logistics Future

This episode of the 'Logistics Management' podcast features Tom Nightingale, President of AFS Logistics, providing an in-depth analysis of the freight market. Discussions cover peak season outlook, capacity rate analysis, nearshoring trends, and the impact of the Baltimore incident. The podcast offers valuable insights for businesses seeking to optimize their supply chains and navigate current market challenges. It provides expert perspectives on key factors influencing freight logistics and helps companies make informed decisions to improve efficiency and resilience.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Shipping Errors Drive Hidden Costs in Maritime Transport

Shipping Errors Drive Hidden Costs in Maritime Transport

This paper provides an in-depth analysis of the cost structure and time impact associated with short shipments and mis-shipments in international sea freight. It offers data-driven strategies for mitigation, emphasizing the importance of preventive measures, emergency handling, and insurance coverage. The aim is to help businesses effectively control sea freight risks and ensure supply chain stability. By focusing on proactive solutions and risk management, companies can minimize potential losses and maintain operational efficiency.

02/12/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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2025 NMFC Changes Push LTL Shippers to Cut Costs

2025 NMFC Changes Push LTL Shippers to Cut Costs

The NMFTA will implement significant NMFC changes in Q1 2025, impacting carriers, shippers, and 3PLs. To ensure a smooth transition, the NMFTA will host listening sessions and webinars focusing on density-based pricing, commodity classification, and user experience improvements. Businesses need to proactively understand the details of these changes, assess their impact, and develop strategies to address future LTL freight challenges. Staying informed and adaptable is crucial for navigating the evolving landscape of NMFC regulations and optimizing freight operations.

02/03/2026 Logistics
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Ecommerce Sellers Face Rising Shipping Costs During Peak Season

Ecommerce Sellers Face Rising Shipping Costs During Peak Season

This paper analyzes the impact of container freight rate volatility on specific routes from late 2023 to early 2024 on e-commerce logistics. Fluctuating freight rates challenge companies' cost control, requiring optimized inventory management, diversified transportation methods, and strengthened collaboration. Geopolitical factors and climate change exacerbate uncertainty, urging businesses to establish risk warning mechanisms and embrace digital transformation. Proactive measures are crucial for navigating these challenges and maintaining supply chain resilience in the face of unpredictable market conditions.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Rail Freight Dips in Late October Still Up Yearly

US Rail Freight Dips in Late October Still Up Yearly

US rail freight volume declined in late October, but year-to-date totals still show growth. Decreases were seen in carload, coal, and grain shipments, while commodities like metallic ores experienced increases. Macroeconomic factors are influencing the market, and infrastructure investments present opportunities. Overall freight volume reflects the current economic climate and highlights the fluctuating demand across different commodity sectors within the rail industry. The impact of intermodal transport also plays a role in these shifts.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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Trade Uncertainty Boosts North American Intermodal Growth

Trade Uncertainty Boosts North American Intermodal Growth

Multimodal transportation expert Larry Gross points out that international freight is experiencing a reduced impact from tariffs, while the domestic freight market appears relatively optimistic. He believes domestic multimodal transport is key to future growth, requiring a breakthrough of the "donut effect" to increase its share in the medium and long-haul transportation market. Simultaneously, attention should be paid to external factors such as global shipping routes, trucking capacity, and driver availability to seize future opportunities.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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