US Rail Freight Volumes Rise in Late August Signaling Recovery

US Rail Freight Volumes Rise in Late August Signaling Recovery

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight and intermodal volumes both increased year-over-year for the week ending August 30th. Chemical and metallic ores shipments showed strong performance, while petroleum and grain shipments declined. Year-to-date freight and intermodal volumes also demonstrated growth. Rail transport faces competition from trucking and challenges from environmental policies. Future development requires strengthened technological innovation and improved service quality to maintain competitiveness and meet evolving demands.

01/22/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Sees Split Trends in Carload Intermodal Volumes

US Rail Freight Sees Split Trends in Carload Intermodal Volumes

According to the Association of American Railroads, for the week ending August 23rd, U.S. rail carloads increased by 0.6% year-over-year, while intermodal traffic decreased by 1.9%. Grain and automotive shipments showed strong performance, while oil and coal shipments declined. Year-to-date figures still indicate solid growth. Railroad companies need to improve efficiency, invest in infrastructure, expand services, and focus on sustainable development.

01/22/2026 Logistics
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STB Proposes US Rail Freight Reforms to Cut Shipper Costs

STB Proposes US Rail Freight Reforms to Cut Shipper Costs

The U.S. Surface Transportation Board (STB) has introduced two proposals aimed at helping rail freight users reduce costs and break the rail freight monopoly by reforming rate dispute resolution mechanisms and promoting inter-railroad competition. The proposals simplify the rate challenge process, lower the threshold for shippers to protect their rights, and consider adopting NITL's competitive switching proposal to secure more rights for shippers. These changes intend to make rate challenges more accessible and potentially increase competition among rail carriers, ultimately benefiting shippers.

01/22/2026 Logistics
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North American Rail Freight Mixed As Intermodal Outperforms in July

North American Rail Freight Mixed As Intermodal Outperforms in July

The Association of American Railroads (AAR) reported mixed results for North American rail freight traffic for the week ending July 7. Overall freight volume saw a slight year-over-year decrease, but intermodal volume increased. Regional performance varied, with significant differences between the East and West. Automotive and petroleum product shipments showed notable growth. Businesses should optimize intermodal strategies, pay attention to regional variations and key industries, and strengthen risk management practices.

01/22/2026 Logistics
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Freight Firms Adapt Strategies As Inflation Ecommerce Strain Supply Chains

Freight Firms Adapt Strategies As Inflation Ecommerce Strain Supply Chains

Ascend CEO McLary shared the company's strategy and outlook on the freight market in a podcast, emphasizing technological innovation and collaboration to address challenges such as inflation. He highlighted the importance of adapting to evolving market dynamics and leveraging technology to improve efficiency and resilience within the supply chain. McLary's insights offer valuable perspectives on navigating the complexities of the current freight landscape and building a sustainable future for the industry.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Logistics Study Shows Shifts in Freight Spending After 33 Years

Logistics Study Shows Shifts in Freight Spending After 33 Years

The 33rd Annual State of Logistics Report focuses on the shift in freight spending and analyzes how companies are adjusting strategies to respond to market changes. The report emphasizes the importance of corporate performance, competitive strategies, and technology adoption. It delves into the application of Artificial Intelligence in logistics, providing insights for companies to build intelligent logistics systems. This report offers valuable guidance for navigating the evolving logistics landscape and optimizing supply chain operations in a dynamic market environment.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US DOT Shuts Down Thousands of Fraudulent CDL Training Schools

US DOT Shuts Down Thousands of Fraudulent CDL Training Schools

The U.S. Department of Transportation is cracking down on substandard CDL training providers. Nearly 3,000 institutions have been removed from the list of approved trainers for failing to meet required standards, and another 4,500 have received warnings. This initiative aims to improve truck transportation safety by ensuring drivers possess the necessary skills and eliminating fraudulent practices within the industry. The goal is to hold training schools accountable and promote safer roads for all.

01/15/2026 Logistics
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