US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Loses in Intermodal

US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Loses in Intermodal

The US rail freight market is diverging: carload traffic is up slightly, driven by demand for autos, coal, and agricultural products. However, intermodal container volume continues to decline due to easing port congestion, truck competition, and cooling consumer spending. Year-to-date figures are mixed, with overall North American rail performance weak. Rail freight faces challenges including economic downturns, supply chain instability, and increased competition, but also opportunities in sustainable development and technological innovation.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Import Surge Grows As Tariff Concerns Loom

US Import Surge Grows As Tariff Concerns Loom

Panjiva data reveals a surge in US seaborne imports in February, but the shadow of tariffs looms. While trade fundamentals are strong and business confidence is high, tariff policies pose potential risks. To navigate the uncertainty and seize opportunities, companies should diversify supply chains, improve efficiency, and explore new markets. Proactive adaptation is key to success in the face of evolving trade dynamics. The increased imports might not sustain due to the upcoming tariff implementations.

02/12/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Trump Tariff Threat Reignites Uscanada Trade Tensions

Trump Tariff Threat Reignites Uscanada Trade Tensions

The Trump administration's imposition of tariffs on Canada, citing Reagan-era tariffs, has sparked trade tensions. Analysis suggests that Reagan's actual views on tariffs differed from Trump's approach, highlighting the increased risk of a trade war. The move has strained US-Canada relations and raised concerns about the potential economic consequences of protectionist policies. This situation underscores the complex interplay of historical precedents, political motivations, and economic realities in shaping international trade relations.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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US Imports Drop Sharply in May Amid Trade Tensions China Hit Hardest

US Imports Drop Sharply in May Amid Trade Tensions China Hit Hardest

A Descartes report reveals a significant drop in U.S. container imports in May, with China freight experiencing a record decline due to trade friction and tariffs. The share of East Coast and Gulf Coast ports increased, while West Coast ports saw a decrease, indicating a profound shift in trade patterns. The impact of ongoing trade disputes is clearly visible in the reduced import volumes and the changing dynamics between different port regions.

01/20/2026 Logistics
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US Service Sector Growth Slows in Latest ISM Report

US Service Sector Growth Slows in Latest ISM Report

The US Services PMI registered 51.5 in August, indicating a slower pace of expansion. New orders increased, while employment declined and backlogs decreased. Performance varied across sectors, with institutional sectors performing well and consumer-facing industries lagging. Key focus should be on tracking changes in new orders to gauge future economic activity. The slowdown suggests potential headwinds for economic growth, and the ISM report provides valuable insights into the current state of the services sector.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Red Sea Crisis Sends Global Shipping Costs Soaring

Red Sea Crisis Sends Global Shipping Costs Soaring

The Red Sea crisis has triggered a surge in ocean freight rates, exacerbating issues such as extended voyages, increased costs, and port congestion. Businesses should proactively plan, diversify transportation routes, strengthen communication, optimize inventory, leverage technology, and closely monitor the market to mitigate these challenges. Digital transformation and supply chain resilience will be crucial for future success in navigating this evolving landscape. The crisis highlights the need for robust and adaptable supply chain strategies.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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USPS Faces Financial Crisis Amid Congressional Gridlock

USPS Faces Financial Crisis Amid Congressional Gridlock

The United States Postal Service (USPS) faces challenges including digital transformation, increased competition, and high operating costs. To survive, USPS has launched a five-year business plan aiming to cut costs and expand its business through internal reforms and legislative support. However, Congressional attitudes and market changes remain key uncertainties for USPS's future development. Whether USPS can successfully transform is crucial not only for its own fate but also for the American economy.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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US Import Data Highlights Supply Chain Risks in February

US Import Data Highlights Supply Chain Risks in February

US import TEUs decreased month-over-month but increased year-over-year in February, with a record high daily average. Growth was seen in energy, consumer goods, and industrial equipment, while materials and IT declined. The overall trend remains unclear, with attention focused on inflation and market consolidation. The mixed signals suggest a complex economic landscape, requiring careful monitoring of these key factors to understand future import patterns and potential impacts on the supply chain.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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US Ports Face Staffing Crunch As Trade Volumes Rise

US Ports Face Staffing Crunch As Trade Volumes Rise

The American Association of Port Authorities calls for increased customs staffing to address the contradiction between growing trade and personnel shortages. Existing recruitment challenges and resource misallocation exacerbate port operational pressures. It is recommended to increase the budget, optimize allocation, simplify recruitment processes, and consider hiring veterans to ensure trade security and efficiency. The current situation strains port operations, highlighting the urgent need for improved staffing levels to maintain smooth trade flows.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Amazon Sellers Grapple With Tax Reporting Errors Under New Rules

Amazon Sellers Grapple With Tax Reporting Errors Under New Rules

Amazon's tax reports for sellers reveal discrepancies with backend data due to differing revenue calculation logic, transaction aggregation timing, and definitions of revenue and expenses. The report uses order-based data with shipment date as the key factor, resulting in a broader revenue scope. Sellers are concerned about increased tax burdens and seek compliance solutions. Wanliqing Cross-border offers local accounts, IP solutions, and tax services to assist sellers in compliant operations.

01/21/2026 Customs Knowledge
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