US Rail Freight Declines As Intermodal Gains Traction

US Rail Freight Declines As Intermodal Gains Traction

Recent data reveals a mixed picture for the US rail freight market. While sectors like petroleum and automotive are experiencing robust growth, traditional commodities like coal and grain are seeing declining volumes. Year-to-date figures show a slight overall increase in freight volume, but a decrease in intermodal transportation. Rail freight faces challenges from energy transition and supply chain restructuring, requiring proactive adaptation to market shifts. The industry must innovate to maintain competitiveness and capitalize on emerging opportunities despite headwinds in certain sectors.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Rises Hinting at Economic Rebound

US Rail Freight Rises Hinting at Economic Rebound

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight and intermodal volume both increased year-over-year in the week ending August 30th. Chemicals and metallic ores showed strong performance, while petroleum and grain faced challenges. Key drivers include economic recovery, improved supply chains, the advantages of intermodal transportation, and infrastructure investments. The rail freight market faces both opportunities and challenges moving forward. This growth indicates positive economic trends but also highlights the varying performance across different sectors within the rail freight industry.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Struggles Amid Shifts Shows Resilience

US Rail Freight Struggles Amid Shifts Shows Resilience

U.S. rail freight volume decreased year-over-year for the week ending September 20th, but cumulative year-to-date figures remain positive. There are structural differences within specific commodity categories, and intermodal transportation faces competition. Rail freight confronts numerous challenges including economic conditions, energy dynamics, and supply chain disruptions. Transformation and upgrading are crucial, requiring embracing digitalization, strengthening partnerships, and expanding into new business areas. This shift is essential for the future sustainability and growth of the rail freight industry in a dynamic and competitive market.

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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Guide to Costeffective Crossborder Shipping for Large Items

Guide to Costeffective Crossborder Shipping for Large Items

Cross-border transportation of oversized cargo involves various options like sea freight, air freight, and express delivery, each with its pros and cons. Sea freight is suitable for low-cost, large-volume, non-urgent goods. Air freight is ideal for high-value, time-sensitive oversized items, but size and weight restrictions apply. Express delivery is only cost-effective for small-volume, urgent oversized shipments. The optimal choice depends on the cargo's characteristics, time requirements, and budget, requiring careful consideration to find the most suitable solution.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Rises Slightly As Intermodal Declines

US Rail Freight Rises Slightly As Intermodal Declines

According to the Association of American Railroads, for the week ending August 20, U.S. rail carloads increased by 2.9% year-over-year, while intermodal volume decreased by 2.4%. Year-to-date carloads are roughly flat compared to last year, but intermodal volume is down 5.5%. Overall, North American rail freight has seen slight growth, but continues to face challenges from global economic slowdown and supply chain disruptions. Railroad companies need to innovate to address these challenges and seize opportunities.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Trucking Volumes Rise Signaling Economic Strength in October

US Trucking Volumes Rise Signaling Economic Strength in October

US truckload volume increased year-over-year but decreased month-over-month in October, potentially signaling a positive economic outlook. Industry executives express cautious optimism, acknowledging ongoing challenges such as driver shortages. This mixed performance reflects a complex economic landscape where demand for goods remains relatively strong, but logistical hurdles persist, impacting the efficiency and overall growth of the freight sector. Monitoring truckload volume provides valuable insights into the health and direction of the US economy.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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Trucking Industry Sees Rising Rates Despite Falling Freight Demand

Trucking Industry Sees Rising Rates Despite Falling Freight Demand

The US trucking market in September saw a decrease in volume but an increase in rates. Experts believe the rate hike wasn't demand-driven, possibly due to capacity imbalance. The peak season outlook is pessimistic, suggesting continued challenges. Freight forwarders and carriers need to strengthen market analysis, optimize operations, and improve service quality to navigate the uncertainty. The rising rates may not be sustainable without corresponding volume growth, indicating a potentially volatile market environment in the coming months.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Cass Freight Index Reports January Shipping Decline

Cass Freight Index Reports January Shipping Decline

The Cass Freight Index reports a significant decline in both freight volume and expenditures in January, marking the largest drop in recent years. The pandemic exacerbates global supply chain uncertainties. To address these challenges and achieve sustainable growth, businesses need to strengthen risk management, optimize their supply chains, embrace digitalization, expand into emerging markets, and foster collaboration. Proactive measures are crucial for navigating the current volatile landscape and ensuring long-term resilience.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Uber Freight Expands Managed Logistics Services in Europe

Uber Freight Expands Managed Logistics Services in Europe

Uber Freight's European operations are experiencing rapid growth, exceeding $200 million in freight volume with a target of $2 billion by 2028. The company focuses on technological innovation to provide efficient, visible, and flexible 4PL services, empowering customer success. This expansion highlights Uber Freight's commitment to modernizing freight management in Europe through technology-driven solutions and a customer-centric approach, aiming to streamline operations and enhance supply chain efficiency for businesses across the continent.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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