US Rail Freight Struggles Carloads Dip Intermodal Flat

US Rail Freight Struggles Carloads Dip Intermodal Flat

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight performance diverged in the week ending November 4th. Carload traffic decreased by 5.2% year-over-year, although the decline narrowed compared to previous weeks. Intermodal traffic increased by 1.5% year-over-year, but the growth rate slowed. Year-to-date figures show carload traffic remaining roughly flat, while intermodal traffic is down 7.0% year-over-year. Key challenges facing the rail freight market include economic downturn risks, supply chain restructuring, technological changes, and sustainability concerns.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Rebounds in June As Intermodal Offsets Coal Decline

US Rail Freight Rebounds in June As Intermodal Offsets Coal Decline

U.S. rail freight data for June 2011 presented a mixed picture. Total freight volume increased year-over-year, but coal shipments declined. Intermodal transportation was a bright spot, although its growth rate slowed. Metallic ores and forest products showed strong performance. Railroad employment increased, and capacity was sufficient. Future trends will depend on economic recovery, supply chain stability, and energy policies. The data suggests cautious optimism with potential headwinds in the coal sector and a need to monitor intermodal growth for sustained positive impact.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Trucking Spot Rates Climb Despite Lower September Volumes

US Trucking Spot Rates Climb Despite Lower September Volumes

The US truckload freight market in September showed a complex picture of declining volumes and slightly increasing rates. Dry van and refrigerated volumes decreased month-over-month, while flatbed volumes saw a slight increase. Spot rates edged up, but contract rates declined. Analysts believe the rate increase is not demand-driven, but rather due to freight imbalances and capacity shifts. The peak season performance is expected to be weak, and carriers may continue to face challenges. The market presents a mixed bag of signals, requiring careful monitoring.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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September Freight Demand Slips As Rates Edge Higher

September Freight Demand Slips As Rates Edge Higher

The US spot truckload market in September presented a complex picture of declining volumes but slightly rising rates. Dry van and refrigerated freight volumes decreased month-over-month, while flatbed volumes increased. Analysts suggest the rate increase was not demand-driven, but rather due to capacity imbalances. They anticipate a potentially weak peak season, posing further challenges for carriers. The freight market is showing signs of volatility and uncertainty as we approach the end of the year, requiring careful monitoring of capacity and demand.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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RXO Uber Freight Spearhead Logistics Innovation at Nextgen 2025

RXO Uber Freight Spearhead Logistics Innovation at Nextgen 2025

The 2025 NextGen Supply Chain Conference will focus on the logistics industry, with leading companies like RXO and Uber Freight sharing insights on how AI, automation, and data-driven approaches are reshaping the logistics landscape. The conference will explore strategies for navigating freight rate volatility and expanding warehouse networks. Attendees will gain valuable learning opportunities and collaboratively explore the future direction of the logistics industry. This event provides a platform to understand emerging trends and best practices in supply chain management and logistics optimization.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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Trucking Market Sees Strong Start in January Amid Capacity Shifts

Trucking Market Sees Strong Start in January Amid Capacity Shifts

DAT's latest Truckload Volume Index report reveals widespread increases in US spot market freight volumes and rates in January, driven by post-holiday restocking, tariff policies, and severe weather. The report analyzes the capacity index and freight rate changes for van, refrigerated, and flatbed trucks. It also provides a market outlook, emphasizing the need for businesses to adapt to market volatility and optimize their operational models. The surge indicates a dynamic start to the year, requiring proactive strategies from logistics providers and shippers alike.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Trucking Rates to Rise As ELD Mandate Nears Shippers Warned

Trucking Rates to Rise As ELD Mandate Nears Shippers Warned

The upcoming ELD (Electronic Logging Device) mandate is poised to impact trucking freight rates. This analysis examines the effects of the ELD mandate on the trucking capacity market and how shippers can navigate potential freight rate increases and capacity shortages. It emphasizes the importance of shippers strengthening relationships with carriers and brokers, optimizing supply chains, planning ahead, and considering technology to improve transportation efficiency. By proactively addressing these challenges, shippers can mitigate the negative consequences of the ELD mandate and maintain a competitive edge.

01/01/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Freight Market Braces for Weak Peak Season Amid Cooling Demand

Freight Market Braces for Weak Peak Season Amid Cooling Demand

The latest Cowen/AFS Freight Index report suggests a potentially weak traditional peak season. Analyzing rate changes and future trends in LTL, parcel, and truckload, the report identifies soft demand and macroeconomic uncertainty as key influencing factors. Businesses need to closely monitor market dynamics, flexibly adjust supply chain strategies, and focus on sustainability to address future challenges. The index provides valuable insights for navigating the evolving logistics landscape and optimizing freight management in a volatile economic environment. Understanding these trends is crucial for maintaining competitiveness and resilience.

01/15/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Air Waybill Mastery Boosts Global Air Freight Efficiency

Air Waybill Mastery Boosts Global Air Freight Efficiency

This article provides an in-depth analysis of the key information on an international Air Waybill (AWB), including the AWB number, shipper and consignee details, transportation details, cargo description, freight terms, and liability statements. It emphasizes the importance of information accuracy for smooth customs clearance. The aim is to help readers grasp the core elements of an air waybill and avoid cargo delays or detention caused by incorrect information. Understanding these elements is crucial for efficient international air freight operations.

01/29/2026 Document Interpretation
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