US Rail Freight Rises in Carloads Dips in Intermodal

US Rail Freight Rises in Carloads Dips in Intermodal

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail carloads increased by 0.6% for the week ending August 23rd, with grain and automotive shipments performing strongly. However, intermodal traffic decreased by 1.9% year-over-year, potentially indicating a cooling consumer demand. Year-to-date figures still show overall growth in rail freight demand. Looking ahead, rail freight faces challenges such as economic recession risks and labor shortages, but also opportunities including infrastructure investment and sustainable development initiatives. Overall, the sector presents a mixed picture of present growth and future uncertainty.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Growth Mixed in November YTD Up

US Rail Freight Growth Mixed in November YTD Up

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows that for the week ending November 1st, U.S. rail freight and intermodal traffic decreased year-over-year, but cumulative volumes for the year remain positive. Increased shipments of grain and metallic ores were observed, while coal and motor vehicle shipments declined, reflecting economic restructuring and changing market demands. Railroad companies need to pay attention to these structural shifts and proactively address the challenges they present. This data provides insights into the current economic landscape and the evolving role of rail freight.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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Hub Group Buys Forward Air Final Mile to Expand Lastmile Reach

Hub Group Buys Forward Air Final Mile to Expand Lastmile Reach

Hub Group's acquisition of Forward Air Final Mile (FAFM) aims to expand its last-mile logistics service offerings, enhance operational efficiency, and improve customer experience, reshaping the last-mile landscape. Simultaneously, US ports are adapting to shifting trade flows through investments in infrastructure, data, and inland transportation capabilities. The future of last-mile logistics will be characterized by increased competition, requiring companies to continuously innovate to maintain a competitive edge. This acquisition and port adaptations highlight the dynamic nature of the logistics industry and the importance of strategic investments.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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Smart ERP Systems Transform Logistics Management

Smart ERP Systems Transform Logistics Management

ERP systems are driving logistics management transformation by integrating technologies like AI and edge computing, bridging the gap between traditional SCM modules and best-of-breed solutions. Key applications include intelligent material handling, real-time data analytics, and predictive analysis. Next-generation technologies such as cloud ERP, big data, and smart glasses are further enhancing supply chain transparency, efficiency, and decision-making capabilities. This evolution allows for better inventory control, optimized transportation routes, and improved overall supply chain performance, ultimately leading to cost savings and increased customer satisfaction.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Decline Points to Economic Slowdown

US Rail Freight Decline Points to Economic Slowdown

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight and intermodal traffic declined year-over-year for the week ending February 11. Carload traffic decreased by 1.6%, while intermodal volume fell sharply by 10.2%. Year-to-date, carload traffic is up slightly by 1%, but intermodal volume is down 7.7%. While North American rail carload traffic increased, intermodal volume also saw a decline. These figures reflect the complexities of the current economic environment and the challenges facing supply chains, requiring businesses to closely monitor and adapt their strategies.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Growth Steady Despite Mixed Signals AAR

US Rail Freight Growth Steady Despite Mixed Signals AAR

The latest report from the Association of American Railroads (AAR) indicates that U.S. rail freight and intermodal volumes both decreased year-over-year for the week ending September 13th. However, rail freight maintains a steady long-term growth trend. While shipments of chemicals, automobiles, and parts increased, traditional freight categories like coal face challenges. Digital transformation, sustainability, and intermodal transportation are expected to be key trends for future development. The report suggests a mixed picture, reflecting both short-term fluctuations and long-term strategic shifts in the rail freight industry.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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Temus Deposit Rules Disrupt Crossborder Ecommerce Hit Small Sellers

Temus Deposit Rules Disrupt Crossborder Ecommerce Hit Small Sellers

TEMU's new deposit rules significantly increase seller deposits, reaching up to 100,000 RMB, causing industry shockwaves. This move aims to address overseas regulatory pressure, optimize the platform ecosystem, and eliminate non-compliant sellers. Sellers need to strengthen compliance qualifications, plan their finances carefully, and streamline their store matrix to adapt to the new regulations and embrace a new phase of high-quality development in the cross-border e-commerce industry. The increased deposit acts as a stronger deterrent against fraudulent activities and ensures a more reliable marketplace for consumers.

02/03/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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China Tightens Ecommerce Tax Reporting for 7000 Platforms

China Tightens Ecommerce Tax Reporting for 7000 Platforms

China is strengthening tax regulation on cross-border e-commerce, requiring platforms to report merchant data. In Q3, over 7,000 platforms completed data submissions, resulting in a 12.7% year-on-year increase in e-commerce tax revenue. The new regulations aim to level the playing field between online and offline businesses in terms of taxation. However, compliance costs and data security have emerged as new challenges for sellers. This increased scrutiny necessitates careful attention to data handling and tax obligations for businesses operating in the Chinese cross-border e-commerce market.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Yunnan Targets Highquality Economic Growth by 2025

Yunnan Targets Highquality Economic Growth by 2025

In 2025, Yunnan's economy achieved steady progress with a GDP growth of 4.1%, reaching 3276.578 billion yuan. Agricultural output exceeded 20 million tons, with significant growth in specialty agricultural products. Industrial transformation and upgrading saw remarkable contributions from non-tobacco and non-energy industries, with rapid development in the new energy sector. The service industry showed vibrant activity. The proportion of clean energy increased, the consumer market recovered, and green investment became a highlight. Residents' income steadily grew, laying a solid foundation for the start of the 15th Five-Year Plan.

02/03/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Freight Volumes Decline in September Amid Steady Growth Trend

US Freight Volumes Decline in September Amid Steady Growth Trend

According to the American Trucking Associations, U.S. freight volumes slightly decreased in September, but still increased year-over-year. Economists believe this short-term pullback doesn't change the long-term positive trend, citing rebuilding demand, lower inventories, and manufacturing improvements as supporting future growth. Data analysts should focus on seasonal adjustments, year-over-year and month-over-month changes, and the weighting of driving factors. They should also be aware of risks such as capacity constraints and fuel price fluctuations. The overall outlook remains positive despite the slight dip.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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