STB Extends Comment Deadline Amid Freight Rail Reform Push

STB Extends Comment Deadline Amid Freight Rail Reform Push

The U.S. Surface Transportation Board (STB) has announced a postponement of the comment deadline for the “reciprocal switching” rulemaking, aimed at providing poorly served freight shippers with access to other rail carriers. The new rule establishes three key performance standards: service reliability, consistency, and adequacy of local service. This has sparked industry expectations for improved rail freight efficiency, while also raising challenges regarding the applicability of the rule to contract traffic and other detailed aspects.

02/11/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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STB Extends Comment Deadline on Rail Freight Switching Rule

STB Extends Comment Deadline on Rail Freight Switching Rule

The U.S. Surface Transportation Board (STB) has extended the comment period for its reciprocal switching rulemaking to December 20th, aiming to address inadequate rail freight service. The proposed rule focuses on reciprocal switching, outlining three key performance standards – service reliability, consistency, and local service – to provide recourse for freight shippers. Diverse perspectives are being considered as the STB seeks to improve rail freight service quality through these reforms. The extension allows for further input on the proposed changes and their potential impact on the industry.

02/11/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Loses in Intermodal

US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Loses in Intermodal

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. carload traffic increased by 0.6% for the week ending June 10, while intermodal traffic decreased by 11.2%. Overall, North American rail freight is experiencing a decline. A diversified approach is needed to address these shifts in the market.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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STB Implements New Rule to Improve Freight Rail Service

STB Implements New Rule to Improve Freight Rail Service

New STB rules in the United States allow shippers experiencing poor freight service to switch rail carriers, breaking monopolies and potentially improving service. This reciprocal switching regulation aims to address service deficiencies. Industry reaction has been mixed, with some welcoming the increased competition and others expressing concerns about operational challenges and unintended consequences. The actual impact of the new rules remains to be seen and will depend on how they are implemented and utilized by shippers and railroads.

02/11/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Rail Freight Mixed Carloads Fall Container Traffic Rises

US Rail Freight Mixed Carloads Fall Container Traffic Rises

U.S. rail freight traffic decreased by 5.2% year-over-year, although carload, agricultural products, and petroleum shipments increased. Container traffic growth slowed. This reflects the structural adjustment of the U.S. economy, indicating a need for businesses to embrace digital transformation to adapt to the changing landscape and maintain competitiveness. The shift in commodity transportation highlights evolving consumer demands and supply chain dynamics, requiring businesses to optimize their operations and logistics strategies.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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ABF Freight Teamsters Sign Fiveyear Deal Enhancing Worker Benefits

ABF Freight Teamsters Sign Fiveyear Deal Enhancing Worker Benefits

ABF Freight System and the International Brotherhood of Teamsters reached a five-year National Master Freight Agreement, significantly improving employee wages, benefits, and working conditions. The agreement introduces paid sick leave and Martin Luther King Jr. Day as a holiday. This agreement stabilizes labor relations, injects new vitality into the logistics industry, and provides a reference for protecting labor rights amidst automation trends. It demonstrates a commitment to fair treatment and improved livelihoods for freight workers, fostering a more stable and productive environment.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Loses in Intermodal

US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Loses in Intermodal

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail carload traffic increased by 2.8% year-over-year for the week ending March 5th, driven primarily by chemicals, minerals, and coal. However, intermodal traffic decreased by 5.8% year-over-year, potentially indicating weak consumer demand. Year-to-date figures show a similar trend. Overall, North American rail freight is facing pressure. Rail freight data reflects the economic pulse, and investors can pay attention to rail operators, equipment suppliers, logistics service providers, and related industries.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Loses in Intermodal

US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Loses in Intermodal

According to the Association of American Railroads, for the week ending March 19, U.S. rail carloads increased by 1.1% year-over-year, while intermodal traffic decreased by 5.7%. Coal and chemical shipments rose, while grain and petroleum product shipments declined. Total North American rail traffic also showed a downward trend, reflecting a complex and dynamic market environment. The data provides insights into the current state of freight transportation and broader economic activity.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Sees Mixed Results in March 2022

US Rail Freight Sees Mixed Results in March 2022

For the week of March 26, 2022, U.S. rail freight showed a mixed trend. Carload traffic increased slightly by 0.5%, mainly driven by increased coal and chemical shipments. However, intermodal traffic declined significantly by 6.2%, reflecting persistent supply chain bottlenecks. Overall North American rail traffic also experienced a year-over-year decrease. The data suggests the U.S. economy faces multiple challenges, including supply chain issues, structural adjustments, and inflation.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Loses in Intermodal

US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Loses in Intermodal

For the week ending August 27th, U.S. rail carload traffic increased by 3.4% year-over-year, with coal, grain, and automotive sectors leading the growth. Intermodal container and trailer traffic saw a slight decrease of 0.3% compared to the same period last year. Businesses should closely monitor market trends, optimize supply chain management, diversify transportation modes, embrace technological innovation, and strengthen risk management to seize opportunities and address challenges.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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