US Rail Freight Sees Carload Drop Intermodal Rise

US Rail Freight Sees Carload Drop Intermodal Rise

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows a decline in rail freight carloads, but an increase in intermodal volume. The rise of e-commerce, supply chain reshaping, growing environmental awareness, and technological innovation are driving factors behind this growth. Rail freight companies should increase investment in intermodal infrastructure, expand service offerings, strengthen partnerships, leverage technological innovation to improve operational efficiency, and focus on sustainable development. By embracing these strategies and capitalizing on the opportunities presented by intermodal transportation, rail companies can successfully navigate the evolving landscape and transform their businesses.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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Rail Freight Industry Adapts to Shifting Market Trends

Rail Freight Industry Adapts to Shifting Market Trends

This article delves into the rail freight and multimodal transportation sector, analyzing market conditions, service levels, freight volume fluctuations, and potential industry consolidation. It particularly focuses on the profound impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Drawing on nearly three decades of experience, industry expert Tony Hatch interprets industry trends, analyzes policy influences, and forecasts future operating models. This provides readers with valuable insights into the rail freight market, offering a comprehensive overview of the current landscape and potential future developments.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Rail Freight Demand Slows in Early February

US Rail Freight Demand Slows in Early February

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight and intermodal traffic both declined year-over-year for the week ending February 4th. Carload traffic saw a slight decrease, although commodities like automobiles and parts experienced growth. Intermodal volume continued its downward trend, reflecting weak consumer demand. Year-to-date figures are mixed, with North America performing slightly better overall, and Mexican railways demonstrating strong growth. Multiple factors are at play, making the future trend uncertain.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Volumes Drop in Early 2024

US Rail Freight Volumes Drop in Early 2024

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows that U.S. rail freight and intermodal volumes declined year-over-year in the first week of February, with varying performance across categories. While cumulative freight volume saw a slight increase, the decline in intermodal transportation partially offset this growth. Overall, North American rail freight volume decreased, with significant regional differences. Moving forward, railway companies need to optimize asset allocation, improve operational efficiency, expand service offerings, strengthen partnerships, embrace digitalization, and focus on sustainable development to address challenges and seize opportunities.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Slump Reflects Economic Recovery Struggles

US Rail Freight Slump Reflects Economic Recovery Struggles

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows that for the week ending June 20, U.S. rail freight and intermodal traffic both declined year-over-year, reflecting challenges to economic recovery. Factors such as the pandemic's impact, decreased energy demand, and a slowdown in manufacturing have contributed to the decline in freight volume. Moving forward, intermodal transportation, digital transformation, and green transportation will be important directions for the development of rail freight.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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Can Hunter Harrison Turn Around CSX Rail Freight

Can Hunter Harrison Turn Around CSX Rail Freight

Former Canadian Pacific Railway CEO Hunter Harrison is in talks with activist investors regarding potentially taking the helm of US rail giant CSX. This has sparked significant market attention, with CSX's stock price rising in response. Whether Harrison will successfully take control and how he will lead CSX out of its challenges and reshape the freight landscape remains to be seen. His potential leadership and impact on the company's future performance are highly anticipated by industry observers.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Rail Freight Mixed Carloads Rise Intermodal Declines

US Rail Freight Mixed Carloads Rise Intermodal Declines

US rail freight carload volume saw a slight increase, while intermodal volume experienced a significant decrease. Carload traffic was driven by commodities like nonmetallic minerals. Intermodal volume was impacted by competition from trucking. Year-to-date cumulative volume showed growth, but the industry continues to face challenges. The increase in carload is not enough to offset the decrease in intermodal, raising concerns about the overall health of the rail freight sector. Further analysis is needed to understand the long-term implications of these trends.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Decline Reflects Trade Logistics Risks

US Rail Freight Decline Reflects Trade Logistics Risks

US rail freight and intermodal volumes declined year-over-year in January, influenced by manufacturing weakness and trade uncertainty. While growth in some commodity categories offered hope, significant declines in coal and grain shipments were the primary drivers. Businesses should diversify supply chains, optimize inventory, strengthen risk assessments, embrace digitalization, and monitor policy changes to navigate challenges and seize opportunities. The decrease highlights the importance of proactive risk management and strategic adaptation in the face of evolving economic conditions and global trade dynamics.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Sees Carload Drop Intermodal Rise

US Rail Freight Sees Carload Drop Intermodal Rise

The US rail freight market is showing a diverging trend. While carload volume has decreased year-over-year, shipments of grain and forest products have increased. Notably, intermodal volume is growing against the overall trend. Rail companies need to capitalize on intermodal opportunities, proactively address challenges, and develop clear strategies to achieve sustainable development. This requires a focus on efficiency, customer service, and adapting to evolving market demands to maintain competitiveness in the transportation sector.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Carloads Drop As Intermodal Rises

US Rail Freight Carloads Drop As Intermodal Rises

The US rail freight market is diverging, with carload traffic declining while intermodal transportation is growing. Influenced by macroeconomic conditions and supply chain dynamics, railway companies need to enhance efficiency and innovation. The decline in carload shipments reflects shifts in commodity demand and production patterns. The rise of intermodal, involving truck-rail-truck transport, suggests a need for integrated logistics solutions. These trends highlight the importance of monitoring economic indicators and adapting to evolving market demands to maintain competitiveness and profitability in the rail freight sector.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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