US Rail Freight Faces Mixed Demand Amid Economic Shifts

US Rail Freight Faces Mixed Demand Amid Economic Shifts

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail carload traffic saw a slight increase in the week ending March 26, but intermodal volume declined. Coal, chemicals, and motor vehicle & parts carloads increased, while petroleum, grain, and metallic ores carloads decreased. Overall, North American rail freight is facing downward pressure. Railroad companies need to strengthen infrastructure construction, expand diversified businesses, embrace green development, and improve service quality.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Carloads Rise Intermodal Declines

US Rail Freight Carloads Rise Intermodal Declines

In August 2022, U.S. rail carload traffic increased by 2.9%, while intermodal volume decreased by 2.4%. For the full year, carload traffic remained flat, and intermodal volume declined by 5.5%. North American rail freight is facing pressure. This data reflects key economic trends impacting the transportation sector and broader supply chains. The contrasting performance of carload and intermodal shipments suggests shifts in freight demand and transportation strategies.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Truck Tariffs Boost Domestic Industry Amid Cost Concerns

US Truck Tariffs Boost Domestic Industry Amid Cost Concerns

The US policy imposing a 25% tariff on imported heavy-duty trucks has officially taken effect, aiming to protect domestic manufacturing and bolster national security. However, this move could lead to increased truck prices, supply chain disruptions, and heightened uncertainty for freight carriers. Experts analyze that the policy's impact will vary across different businesses, potentially accelerating manufacturing reshoring but also posing challenges related to labor and infrastructure.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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North American Rail Freight Gains Carloads but Loses Intermodal Traffic

North American Rail Freight Gains Carloads but Loses Intermodal Traffic

Recent data reveals a mixed picture for the US rail freight market. Carload traffic shows a slight increase, but performance varies across commodity groups. Intermodal volume, however, has declined. Year-to-date figures indicate overall growth, but the industry faces challenges including economic downturn and increased competition. Rail companies need to actively transform and upgrade their operations to navigate these headwinds and maintain competitiveness.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Volumes Rebound in March Amid Economic Recovery

US Rail Freight Volumes Rebound in March Amid Economic Recovery

According to the Association of American Railroads, for the week ending March 15th, U.S. rail freight traffic increased by 3.1% year-over-year, and intermodal traffic rose by 8.8%. While year-to-date total freight volume slightly decreased, intermodal growth remains robust. This data suggests a steady economic recovery in the U.S. The rail transport industry is actively embracing digital transformation and green, sustainable development practices.

02/03/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Rebounds As Carload Intermodal Traffic Rises

US Rail Freight Rebounds As Carload Intermodal Traffic Rises

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail carload and intermodal traffic both increased year-over-year for the week ending March 8th. Coal and grain were key drivers for carload growth, while intermodal continued its strong performance. Year-to-date figures show intermodal growth offsetting the decline in carload volume. The U.S. rail freight market is undergoing structural changes, presenting both challenges and opportunities.

02/03/2026 Logistics
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AI Transforms Lead Generation for Global Trade Firms

AI Transforms Lead Generation for Global Trade Firms

In the new landscape of foreign trade customer acquisition driven by AI, GEO optimization is crucial. By optimizing content to be AI's preferred source, it enables precise brand exposure. Working in tandem with SEO, GEO secures traditional traffic while pioneering new AI opportunities. WhaleTrade GEO utilizes human-machine collaboration to solve content creation challenges, helping businesses seize the AI era's advantages and achieve increased inquiries.

02/02/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Container Imports Climb As Supply Chain Strains Ease

US Container Imports Climb As Supply Chain Strains Ease

Panjiva reports that U.S. container imports increased by 6.9% year-over-year in February, with daily volumes reaching a new high, potentially indicating easing supply chain pressures. Energy and consumer goods imports saw significant growth, while raw materials and IT products declined. Inflation and shifting consumer preferences may lead to future demand declines. Maersk's acquisition of Pilot Freight aims to expand its logistics services.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Rebounds in August Hinting at Economic Recovery

US Rail Freight Rebounds in August Hinting at Economic Recovery

U.S. rail freight volume increased in the first week of August, with both carload and intermodal traffic rising. Gains were seen in grain, coal, and automotive shipments, while petroleum declined. Year-to-date cumulative volume also showed growth. This positive trend in rail freight suggests a potentially strengthening economy and improved supply chain performance, as rail transport is a key indicator of industrial activity and consumer demand.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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Trucking Industry Rebounds As Trailer Orders Rise

Trucking Industry Rebounds As Trailer Orders Rise

ACT Research reports that Class 8 trailer orders increased by 31% month-over-month and 22% year-over-year in September, with a significant increase in shipments. The order growth is influenced by seasonal factors and expectations of rising prices. Trucking companies should refine operations, optimize the value chain, and pay attention to the trends of intelligence, green development, and intensification to seize opportunities and meet challenges.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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