US Rail Freight Volume Rises Slightly in Late August

US Rail Freight Volume Rises Slightly in Late August

U.S. rail freight saw a slight increase overall, with intermodal transportation experiencing growth. Chemical shipments rose, while petroleum shipments declined. Both total freight volume and intermodal volume increased throughout the year, indicating positive trends in the railway sector and its contribution to the broader economy. This growth suggests a continued reliance on rail for moving goods across the country, particularly for intermodal solutions that integrate rail with other modes of transport.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Trucking Hits Record Freight Volume Amid Economic Rebound

US Trucking Hits Record Freight Volume Amid Economic Rebound

Data from the American Trucking Associations shows that U.S. truck freight volume hit a record high in January, up 6.5% year-over-year, driven by inventory replenishment and improvements in the real estate market. However, the industry still faces economic challenges and its own structural problems. Future development requires attention to factors such as technological innovation, energy policy, and consumer behavior. The trucking industry's performance often serves as an indicator of broader economic trends, making its continued growth crucial for sustained economic recovery.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Trucking Freight Volume Reaches Record High in January

US Trucking Freight Volume Reaches Record High in January

US truck freight volume reached a record high in January 2013, increasing by 6.5% year-over-year, according to the American Trucking Associations. This suggests a potential economic recovery. Inventory replenishment and a rebounding housing market are key drivers. However, fiscal challenges still pose a risk. The trucking industry serves as an economic barometer, with its performance closely linked to the overall health of the economy.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Decline Signals Economic Concerns

US Rail Freight Decline Signals Economic Concerns

Recent data reveals a year-over-year decline in both U.S. rail freight and intermodal volume, with divergent trends across specific sectors. Cumulative data presents a mixed picture. As a bellwether of economic activity, rail freight volume is influenced by macroeconomic factors and industry restructuring. Companies should closely monitor the economic situation, strengthen risk management, and enhance competitiveness through technological innovation. The future of the rail freight industry presents both challenges and opportunities.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Freight Volume Growth Slows in March Amid Mixed Signals

US Freight Volume Growth Slows in March Amid Mixed Signals

The American Trucking Associations report indicates mixed freight volume results for March. The seasonally adjusted index showed a slight decrease but solid year-over-year growth. Unadjusted freight volume saw significant monthly growth, but a substantial year-over-year decline. Slower growth is anticipated, but the overall market remains resilient. Attention should be paid to macroeconomic factors, technological innovation, and capacity challenges to capitalize on market opportunities.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Trends Hint at Economic Uncertainty

US Rail Freight Trends Hint at Economic Uncertainty

U.S. rail freight presents a mixed picture. Intermodal growth suggests a consumer recovery, while a decline in traditional freight may reflect industrial weakness. Overall freight volume experienced a slight decrease. The intermodal segment's positive performance hints at increased consumer demand and potentially improving economic conditions. However, the contraction in traditional freight shipments raises concerns about the health of the manufacturing and industrial sectors. The small overall decline indicates a need for careful monitoring of future trends to determine the true state of the economy.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Declines in September Grain Shipments Rise

US Rail Freight Declines in September Grain Shipments Rise

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows a year-over-year decline in U.S. rail freight and intermodal traffic for the third week of September. Coal shipments experienced a significant drop, while grain transport showed strong performance. Year-to-date figures still indicate growth, suggesting a positive long-term trend. Rail freight volume is considered an economic bellwether, reflecting economic activity and structural shifts. The fluctuations in freight volume provide insights into the overall health and direction of the economy.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Truckload Rates Rise As Volume Falls in September

US Truckload Rates Rise As Volume Falls in September

A DAT report indicates a decline in US truckload freight volume during September, coupled with a slight increase in freight rates, revealing a divergence where prices rise without corresponding volume growth. This rate increase, not driven by demand, potentially signals underlying market issues. Brokers face squeezed margins, while carriers encounter both opportunities and challenges. Experts express pessimism regarding the peak season outlook, suggesting the market adjustment may persist. The report highlights a complex and potentially concerning situation within the truckload freight sector.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Rail Freight Automotive Grain Up As Intermodal Lags

US Rail Freight Automotive Grain Up As Intermodal Lags

The Association of American Railroads (AAR) reported a mixed performance in U.S. rail freight for the week ending March 21. Traditional carload traffic saw a slight year-over-year decrease, but grain and automotive shipments performed strongly. Intermodal volume, however, bucked the trend and increased. Year-to-date figures show a small increase in carload volume, while intermodal volume experienced a slight decline. The U.S. rail freight market is undergoing a transformation and upgrade, requiring proactive responses to challenges and the seizing of opportunities.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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Trucking Tonnage Drop Points to Economic Slowdown ATA

Trucking Tonnage Drop Points to Economic Slowdown ATA

The American Trucking Associations (ATA) October freight tonnage report indicates a second consecutive month of decline, raising concerns about a potential economic downturn. The seasonally adjusted For-Hire Truck Tonnage Index fell 1.8% year-over-year, and is unchanged year-to-date compared to last year. The ATA's chief economist stated that the freight market faces significant challenges. The article delves into the reasons behind the tonnage decline and suggests coping strategies for businesses and individuals. This downturn in freight volume signals potential economic headwinds.

01/08/2026 Logistics
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