Freight Market Rebounds Despite Ongoing Challenges Bofa Index

Freight Market Rebounds Despite Ongoing Challenges Bofa Index

Bank of America's Q2 Freight Payment Index indicates a continued decline in freight volume and spending, but with a narrowing margin, suggesting the market may be bottoming out. Regional performance is divergent. Experts highlight shifting consumption patterns, rising debt, and cost pressures as the triple challenges. Companies should refine operations, expand diversified businesses, and embrace digital transformation to navigate market changes. The index provides valuable insights into the current state and potential future direction of the freight market and broader economic trends affecting the industry.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Intermodal Volume Drop Signals Trade Slowdown Concerns

US Intermodal Volume Drop Signals Trade Slowdown Concerns

U.S. multimodal freight volume fell by 4.1% year-over-year in November, continuing the decline seen in October. This reflects the impact of multiple factors, including a global economic slowdown, trade frictions, and weakening consumer demand. This data suggests potential challenges to economic growth in the coming months. Businesses and governments should closely monitor market dynamics and respond flexibly.

12/19/2025 Logistics
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US Truck Freight Declines in February Due to Weather Low Demand

US Truck Freight Declines in February Due to Weather Low Demand

American Trucking Associations data shows a month-over-month decline in US truck freight volume in February, influenced by winter weather and economic factors. Despite the short-term downturn, the industry remains cautiously optimistic about the full year, anticipating support from consumer spending, low fuel prices, and industrial production. Businesses need to proactively adjust their strategies, and the government should foster a favorable development environment. The decline serves as a reminder of the industry's sensitivity to external factors and the need for resilience.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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February Truckload Volume Dips Flatbed Demand Rises Against Trend

February Truckload Volume Dips Flatbed Demand Rises Against Trend

The DAT Truckload Volume Index shows a seasonal decline in van and refrigerated freight in February, while flatbed demand bucked the trend and increased. The overall drop is likely related to the fewer days in February, while the growth in flatbed trucking may be tied to infrastructure and manufacturing recovery. Businesses should pay close attention to market dynamics and be flexible in their response. This shift highlights the importance of monitoring specific sector trends within the broader freight market.

01/16/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Freight Recession Worsens Amid Economic Challenges Cass Index

Freight Recession Worsens Amid Economic Challenges Cass Index

The Cass Freight Index indicates a continued decline in freight volume and expenditures in October, signaling a market downturn. To navigate this challenging economic period, businesses need to focus on lean operations, expand their business scope, innovate their business models, and strengthen risk management. These strategies will enable them to weather the economic downturn and position themselves for a robust recovery when the market rebounds. Proactive adaptation is crucial for sustained success in the face of economic headwinds.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Cass Freight Index Warns of Economic Slowdown As Shipping Slump Persists

Cass Freight Index Warns of Economic Slowdown As Shipping Slump Persists

The latest Cass Freight Index report indicates a continued decline in freight volume and expenditures in October, signaling a potential economic downturn. The report highlights multiple contributing factors, including weak demand, excess capacity, inventory buildup, and geopolitical risks. To navigate these challenges, businesses should refine operations, flexibly adjust capacity, strengthen risk management, and embrace digitalization. These strategies are crucial for adapting to the evolving market conditions and mitigating potential negative impacts from the predicted economic slowdown.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Freight Recession Worsens As Cass Index Points to Economic Slowdown

Freight Recession Worsens As Cass Index Points to Economic Slowdown

The Cass Freight Index reveals a decline in both freight volume and expenditures in March, signaling challenges for the logistics industry. Increased demand differentiation, difficult inventory management, and potential price wars are anticipated. Logistics companies should optimize operations, expand services, strengthen risk control, and embrace digitalization to navigate these challenges and seize future opportunities. The report suggests a cautious outlook and highlights the need for adaptability and strategic planning within the logistics sector during this economic downturn.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Dips in Container Volumes

US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Dips in Container Volumes

Data from the Association of American Railroads indicates mixed performance for U.S. rail freight for the week ending December 6th. Carload traffic increased year-over-year, driven by demand for commodities like coal and grain. However, container traffic declined compared to the previous year, reflecting challenges in global trade. Cumulative data for the first 49 weeks of 2025 shows overall freight volume growth. However, caution is advised regarding the potential impact of future economic uncertainties on rail freight performance. The container decline warrants attention as a potential leading indicator.

01/17/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Rebound Hints at Economic Growth

US Rail Freight Rebound Hints at Economic Growth

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight and intermodal volumes both increased year-over-year for the week ending April 26. Rail freight volume rose by 9.0%, primarily driven by increased shipments of coal, grain, and chemicals. Intermodal volume grew by 2.6%. Year-to-date figures show a 1.5% increase in rail freight volume and an 8.0% increase in intermodal volume, suggesting a steady recovery in the rail freight market.

02/03/2026 Logistics
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US Import Volumes Drop Sharply Amid Pandemic Demand Decline

US Import Volumes Drop Sharply Amid Pandemic Demand Decline

Panjiva data reveals a continued decline in US import freight volume, impacted by both the pandemic and weakened demand. A significant drop in Chinese exports is a primary driver, accelerating supply chain diversification. It is recommended to strengthen international cooperation, reduce trade barriers, stabilize global trade, and promote digital transformation to mitigate these challenges and foster resilience in the global supply chain.

01/15/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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