US Rail Freight Growth Uneven As Carloads Rise Intermodal Falls

US Rail Freight Growth Uneven As Carloads Rise Intermodal Falls

The latest US rail freight data reveals a year-over-year increase in carload traffic, driven by strong demand for nonmetallic minerals, coal, and motor vehicle parts. However, intermodal container and trailer volumes declined year-over-year, reflecting easing supply chain bottlenecks and cooling consumer demand. Overall North American rail freight volumes show a similar diverging trend. Moving forward, railway companies need to improve operational efficiency and expand their business areas to address challenges and seize opportunities.

01/28/2026 Logistics
Read More
Ecommerce Sellers Face Rising Shipping Costs During Peak Season

Ecommerce Sellers Face Rising Shipping Costs During Peak Season

This paper analyzes the impact of container freight rate volatility on specific routes from late 2023 to early 2024 on e-commerce logistics. Fluctuating freight rates challenge companies' cost control, requiring optimized inventory management, diversified transportation methods, and strengthened collaboration. Geopolitical factors and climate change exacerbate uncertainty, urging businesses to establish risk warning mechanisms and embrace digital transformation. Proactive measures are crucial for navigating these challenges and maintaining supply chain resilience in the face of unpredictable market conditions.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
Regional Container Rates Surge Amid Europe Slowdown

Regional Container Rates Surge Amid Europe Slowdown

Latest container data shows a slowdown in freight rate increases on European routes and a decrease on Mediterranean routes, while Pacific and Asian regional routes are performing strongly. Shipping companies may adjust their route layouts, leading to increased competition on regional routes. Freight forwarding companies need to closely monitor market dynamics. The European route's price increase is becoming less significant, while the Mediterranean route is decreasing. The Pacific and Asian routes are showing strength. This shift could lead to a change in shipping company strategies and increased competition within regional routes. Freight forwarders must stay informed.

09/26/2025 Logistics
Read More
Container Shipping Slump Alters Global Ecommerce Logistics

Container Shipping Slump Alters Global Ecommerce Logistics

Global container freight rates continue to fall, impacting shipping industry profits and reshaping cross-border e-commerce logistics. Land transportation is gaining prominence, with Amazon Air expanding its regional presence, leading to freight rate differentiation. The China-Europe Railway Express supports the Belt and Road Initiative. Amazon is optimizing inventory placement in preparation for peak season. Air freight is accelerating China-Europe trade, and the shift from road to rail promotes low-carbon logistics. Chinese companies are accelerating the deployment of European warehousing to address tariff challenges. These trends highlight the evolving landscape of global trade and logistics.

01/23/2026 Logistics
Read More
Maritime Exporters Adopt Efficient Container Handling Practices

Maritime Exporters Adopt Efficient Container Handling Practices

This article provides a detailed analysis of three key stages in ocean freight exports: container pick-up, loading, and return. It covers specific operating procedures, critical points to consider, and associated costs. Understanding this knowledge helps improve the efficiency and safety of cargo transportation, offering practical operational guidance for exporters.

09/16/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
Read More
Shippers Guide Avoiding HBL Vs MBL Freight Pitfalls

Shippers Guide Avoiding HBL Vs MBL Freight Pitfalls

This article provides an in-depth analysis of the differences between House Bill of Lading (HBL) and Master Bill of Lading (MBL), offering a practical guide to avoid pitfalls in LCL consolidation operations. It covers key distinctions such as cargo ownership, payment methods, and header signatures. Through real-world case studies, the article provides solutions to common issues like container leasing, customs declaration, port entry, and container drop-off. The aim is to help shippers and freight forwarders mitigate risks and successfully complete international cargo transportation.

08/22/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
Read More
Shipping Industry Guide Managing Special Containers Effectively

Shipping Industry Guide Managing Special Containers Effectively

This article delves into the definition, classification, and applications of special containers in ocean freight. It details the characteristics, suitable cargo, and operational considerations for five common types: open-top containers, flat rack containers, tank containers, refrigerated containers, and platform containers. The complexity and challenges of special container transportation are emphasized, and practical advice is offered to industry professionals to help them address the unique demands of transporting specialized cargo. This aims to assist in effectively managing the intricacies involved in special container shipping.

08/23/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
Read More
Key Differences Between Packing Lists and Container Loading Plans in Shipping

Key Differences Between Packing Lists and Container Loading Plans in Shipping

In international shipping, both CLP (Container Loading Plan) and PL (Packing List) record cargo information but serve different purposes. The CLP focuses on describing the loading situation within a container, used for verification by shippers, terminals, and carriers. The PL is commonly used for customs declaration and inspection, serving as a basis for customs review. Understanding the differences between the two is crucial for freight forwarders to ensure smooth export of goods. Knowing which document to use for each step streamlines the process and avoids delays.

09/26/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
Read More
Amazon Sellers Weigh FCL Vs LCL for Costefficient Ocean Freight

Amazon Sellers Weigh FCL Vs LCL for Costefficient Ocean Freight

This article provides an in-depth analysis of the billing methods and customs clearance differences between Full Container Load (FCL) and Less than Container Load (LCL) in Amazon FBA ocean freight, offering practical logistics cost optimization strategies for cross-border e-commerce sellers. By comparing the advantages and disadvantages of the two shipping methods, it helps sellers make informed decisions based on factors such as cargo volume and time sensitivity, ultimately maximizing profits. It guides sellers on choosing the most suitable option for their specific needs.

01/04/2026 Logistics
Read More
US Shipping Delays Drive Up Global Trade Costs

US Shipping Delays Drive Up Global Trade Costs

The US maritime shipping market is facing a double whammy of delays and rising prices. Factors such as pandemic-induced port congestion, labor shortages, surging demand, container shortages, insufficient capacity, rising fuel costs, and cargo backlogs have collectively driven up ocean freight costs, straining the global trade chain. Container shipping rates from the US to China and Europe have increased 3-4 times since 2020, and delays have not yet been fully resolved. The situation continues to put pressure on businesses and consumers alike.

02/03/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More