US Rail Freight Carloads Rise Intermodal Declines

US Rail Freight Carloads Rise Intermodal Declines

Recent data reveals a complex picture for the US rail freight market: carload volume saw a slight increase, but intermodal volume declined, reflecting challenges in economic recovery. While cumulative year-to-date figures show growth, concerns remain regarding supply chains and labor shortages. Railroad companies should focus on improving efficiency, strengthening collaboration, and embracing digital transformation to address future challenges. The decrease in intermodal volume suggests a potential shift in freight transport patterns or underlying economic pressures impacting consumer demand and international trade.

01/19/2026 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 Rail Freight Rises Intermodal Surges in Early March

US Rail Freight Rises Intermodal Surges in Early March

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight and intermodal volume both increased year-over-year for the week ending March 8, 2025. However, year-to-date, total carload traffic is down 1.5%, while intermodal volume is up 8.4%. Coal and grain shipments increased, while metallic ores, chemicals, and forest products declined. Railroad companies should capitalize on intermodal opportunities and address freight challenges to achieve sustainable growth.

01/30/2026 Logistics
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Trucking Boom Signals Strong Economic Growth

Trucking Boom Signals Strong Economic Growth

The American Trucking Associations reported a 6% year-over-year increase in truck freight volume for November, signaling positive economic growth. Increased manufacturing output and low retailer inventories were key drivers. Analysts anticipate continued growth in freight volume, suggesting a steady recovery for the U.S. economy. This increase in trucking activity reflects strengthened demand across various sectors, indicating a positive trajectory for future economic performance. The data underscores the vital role of trucking in the nation's supply chain and its sensitivity to economic fluctuations.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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North American Rail Freight Mixed As Intermodal Outperforms in July

North American Rail Freight Mixed As Intermodal Outperforms in July

The Association of American Railroads (AAR) reported mixed results for North American rail freight traffic for the week ending July 7. Overall freight volume saw a slight year-over-year decrease, but intermodal volume increased. Regional performance varied, with significant differences between the East and West. Automotive and petroleum product shipments showed notable growth. Businesses should optimize intermodal strategies, pay attention to regional variations and key industries, and strengthen risk management practices.

01/22/2026 Logistics
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US Freight Index Rises but Lags Behind Previous Year

US Freight Index Rises but Lags Behind Previous Year

The U.S. Department of Transportation's Bureau of Transportation Statistics reported a 1.1% month-over-month increase in the Freight Transportation Services Index in January, but a 0.2% year-over-year decrease. Trucking and rail transportation growth were the primary drivers, while pipeline and air freight faced challenges. In the long term, U.S. freight volume shows a steady growth trend, but the pandemic accelerated structural changes in the industry. Future technological innovation and green transformation will bring new opportunities to the freight industry.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Rises Slightly Intermodal Declines in October

US Rail Freight Rises Slightly Intermodal Declines in October

U.S. rail freight saw a slight increase in overall volume, while intermodal transportation experienced a decline. Certain freight categories demonstrated growth, while others decreased. Despite short-term fluctuations, the long-term trend remains positive. Railroad companies need to improve operational efficiency and adapt to evolving market demands to capitalize on future opportunities. This includes optimizing resource allocation, enhancing customer service, and embracing technological advancements to maintain competitiveness and sustain growth in the rail freight sector.

01/17/2026 Logistics
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Uber Freight Expands 4PL Ambitions in Europe

Uber Freight Expands 4PL Ambitions 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. Leveraging its technological advantages, Uber Freight aims to become a leading 4PL provider in Europe, continuously innovating and expanding its services. The company is focused on utilizing its technology platform to optimize logistics and provide managed transportation solutions across the continent, solidifying its position in the European freight market and driving further growth.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Volumes Drop in Early 2024

US Rail Freight Volumes Drop in Early 2024

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows that U.S. rail freight and intermodal volumes declined year-over-year in the first week of February, with varying performance across categories. While cumulative freight volume saw a slight increase, the decline in intermodal transportation partially offset this growth. Overall, North American rail freight volume decreased, with significant regional differences. Moving forward, railway companies need to optimize asset allocation, improve operational efficiency, expand service offerings, strengthen partnerships, embrace digitalization, and focus on sustainable development to address challenges and seize opportunities.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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Freight Market Rebounds As Capacity and Spending Rise

Freight Market Rebounds As Capacity and Spending Rise

The freight market shows signs of recovery after multiple challenges, driven by rebounding capacity and increased consumer spending. The surge in import volume is influenced by both short-term factors and long-term trends. Trucking and rail transportation are both exhibiting positive momentum in land transport. Growth in intermodal volume reflects robust consumer spending, while shifts in consumer spending patterns also significantly impact the freight market. Despite remaining uncertainties, positive signals are emerging, warranting cautious optimism.

01/30/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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