US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads but Loses in Intermodal

US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads but Loses in Intermodal

October 2025 US rail freight data shows a slight increase of 0.3% in carload traffic, but a 4.8% year-over-year decrease in intermodal volume. Shipments of nonmetallic minerals, metallic ores, and chemicals increased, while grain, miscellaneous, and coal shipments declined. Year-to-date, total carload traffic is up 2.0% and intermodal volume is up 3.2%. The data reflects economic structural changes and market uncertainties, requiring the rail industry to address challenges and seize opportunities.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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Global Shipping Costs Surge for Bulk Cargo Shippers

Global Shipping Costs Surge for Bulk Cargo Shippers

This article provides an in-depth analysis of international LCL (Less than Container Load) ocean freight rates. It details various calculation methods for basic freight (based on weight tons, volume, ad valorem, etc.) and different types of surcharges, such as overweight charges, port congestion surcharges, and bunker adjustment factors (BAF). The article also offers practical advice on reducing ocean freight costs, helping shippers make informed decisions and optimize their logistics expenses. This aims to empower cargo owners to smartly manage and minimize their overall shipping costs.

11/03/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Freight Costs Rise As Dimensional Weight Gains Importance

Freight Costs Rise As Dimensional Weight Gains Importance

This article elaborates on the concepts of dimensional weight and actual weight in international freight. It provides an in-depth analysis of calculating actual weight, volume weight, and billable weight. Furthermore, it offers practical identification guidelines and billing difference analysis for air and sea freight, highlighting their distinct characteristics. The aim is to help readers better understand international freight rules and optimize logistics costs. Understanding these calculations is crucial for efficient shipping and avoiding unexpected charges. This knowledge empowers shippers to make informed decisions.

01/16/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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US Rail Freight Rebounds Despite Economic Challenges

US Rail Freight Rebounds Despite Economic Challenges

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. Increased shipments of chemicals and metallic ores suggest a potential economic rebound. Rail freight growth serves as an economic bellwether, creating jobs and offering environmental benefits. However, the industry faces challenges such as aging infrastructure and labor shortages. These positive trends in rail freight volume provide a valuable signal regarding the current state and potential recovery of the broader U.S. economy.

01/22/2026 Logistics
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US Trucking Industry Struggles As Freight Demand Falls Rates Edge Up

US Trucking Industry Struggles As Freight Demand Falls Rates Edge Up

The US truckload freight market in September showed a divergence: freight volume declined, but spot rates edged up. DAT data indicated decreases in dry van and refrigerated volumes, while flatbed volumes saw a slight increase. Experts attribute the rate increase to freight imbalances and capacity shifts rather than demand, expressing pessimism about the peak season outlook. The market faces structural adjustments, requiring all parties to respond cautiously. Despite the spot rate increase, the overall trend suggests a weakening market due to lower volumes and underlying economic uncertainties.

01/22/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Trucking Industry to Hit 14M Tons by 2035

US Trucking Industry to Hit 14M Tons by 2035

The American Trucking Associations forecasts U.S. truck freight tonnage to peak at 14 million tons by 2035, maintaining its dominance in the freight market. The report reveals trends in total freight volume and revenue growth, analyzing key influencing factors such as macroeconomics, fuel prices, labor markets, regulations, technological innovation, and supply chain changes. The trucking industry needs to proactively address challenges and embrace innovation to adapt to future development. This includes optimizing routes, adopting sustainable practices, and leveraging data analytics for improved efficiency and predictive capabilities.

01/22/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Tianjinmalaysia Shipping Costs Transit Times Analyzed

Tianjinmalaysia Shipping Costs Transit Times Analyzed

This paper analyzes the key factors influencing sea freight costs from Tianjin Port to Malaysia, including cargo type, weight and volume, loading and unloading fees, fuel costs, and exchange rate fluctuations. It also explores the impact of shipping routes, vessel speed, weather conditions, and port congestion on shipping time. Furthermore, it provides information on major ports and sea freight inquiry channels, offering a reference for businesses to efficiently plan international trade transportation. This analysis helps businesses understand the complexities of sea freight and optimize their logistics strategies.

01/23/2026 Logistics
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US Freight Market Shows Signs of Recovery Trucking Index Rises

US Freight Market Shows Signs of Recovery Trucking Index Rises

The U.S. Trucking Conditions Index (TCI) reading for November reached a near two-year high, signaling a potential turnaround in the freight market. The report analyzes key factors influencing the TCI, including freight volume, freight rates, and fuel costs. It also provides recommendations for industry players to address challenges and seize opportunities. Experts advise cautious optimism and attention to policy changes. This positive trend suggests a potential recovery in the trucking sector, but careful monitoring of economic indicators remains crucial for informed decision-making.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Air Freight Costs from Zhejiang to Germany Explained

Air Freight Costs from Zhejiang to Germany Explained

This paper delves into the key factors influencing air freight rates from Zhejiang, China to Germany, including cargo weight and volume, destination port selection, airlines, route types, and seasonal factors. It provides practical cost accounting methods, such as estimation and quotation approaches. The composition of freight charges is detailed, and targeted strategies for optimizing air freight costs are proposed. The aim is to help businesses reduce cross-border logistics expenses and enhance their trade competitiveness by understanding and managing these factors effectively, ultimately leading to improved profitability.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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Yunnanthailand Sea Freight Costs Key Trends and Strategies

Yunnanthailand Sea Freight Costs Key Trends and Strategies

This article provides an in-depth analysis of the various cost components involved in sea freight from Yunnan, China to Thailand, including ocean freight, port handling charges, customs declaration fees, and fuel surcharges. It elaborates on the differences between weight-based and volume-based pricing. Furthermore, it offers various channels for inquiring about sea freight rates and practical suggestions for reducing shipping costs. The aim is to assist businesses in achieving cost reduction and efficiency improvement in cross-border trade between Yunnan and Thailand.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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