US Rail Freight Carloads Rise Intermodal Declines

US Rail Freight Carloads Rise Intermodal Declines

US rail freight saw a slight increase overall, but intermodal volume experienced a significant drop. This internal divergence suggests a potential weakening in consumer demand. The overall performance of North American rail transport remains lackluster. Monitoring these data points is crucial for understanding underlying economic trends. The decline in intermodal volume, in particular, warrants close attention as it can be a leading indicator of broader economic slowdown.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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Global Logistics Firms Adopt Multimodal Transport Strategies

Global Logistics Firms Adopt Multimodal Transport Strategies

International multimodal transportation integrates sea, rail, air, and truck transport for cost and time efficiency. Sea-rail intermodal is suitable for bulk inland transport, while sea-truck handles e-commerce last-mile delivery, and air-truck caters to high-value urgent orders. Companies should consider cargo characteristics, delivery time, and cost to choose the optimal solution. Monitoring market price fluctuations and consulting professional advisors is crucial for effective decision-making in multimodal transport strategies.

12/31/2025 Logistics
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North American Intermodal Decline Eases As Domestic Demand Holds Steady

North American Intermodal Decline Eases As Domestic Demand Holds Steady

The Intermodal Association of North America (IANA) reported a 4.3% year-over-year decrease in North American intermodal volume in Q2, although the decline narrowed. Domestic container demand remained robust, increasing by 4.0%, while international standard containers faced challenges such as port congestion and COVID-19 lockdowns, resulting in an 8.4% decrease. The peak season impact is expected to diminish, leading to a more stable trend for the year. Inflation and high oil prices may present opportunities for intermodal transportation.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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CSX CN Launch Canadatonashville Intermodal Service

CSX CN Launch Canadatonashville Intermodal Service

CSX and CN are partnering to launch a new intermodal service connecting the Canadian West Coast with Nashville, aiming to provide faster, more reliable, and more sustainable rail transport solutions. CSX also recently collaborated with BNSF to expand east-west coast intermodal services. Experts highlight that the current intermodal market offers good service levels and possesses significant growth potential in the future. This expansion reflects the increasing demand for efficient and environmentally friendly transportation options within the supply chain, leveraging the benefits of rail for long-haul freight movement.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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Analysis of the 'Non-Operating Reefer' Phenomenon in Container Shipping

Analysis of the 'Non-Operating Reefer' Phenomenon in Container Shipping

This article analyzes the phenomenon of 'Non-Operating Reefer' in container transport, explaining its definition and application scenarios. Through practical cases, it explores the reasons and cost advantages of using reefer containers as standard containers. The article also emphasizes the special limitations of reefer containers in cargo loading and transport, highlighting their importance in enhancing container utilization.

07/16/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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US Intermodal Decline Eases in September Signaling Possible Rebound

US Intermodal Decline Eases in September Signaling Possible Rebound

U.S. intermodal volume decreased by 4.0% year-over-year in September 2023, though the decline narrowed, with domestic container shipments showing growth. Economic weakness, high inventories, and truck competition are key challenges. The Intermodal Association of North America anticipates improvement in the second half of the year, but experts believe intense market competition makes recovery challenging. Intermodal transportation needs to enhance services, optimize networks, strengthen technology applications, and deepen cooperation to address challenges and seize opportunities. The market remains competitive, and the path to recovery is uncertain.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Intermodal Decline Slows in September Signaling Recovery

US Intermodal Decline Slows in September Signaling Recovery

September data for the US intermodal market indicates a narrowing decline, with strong performance in domestic container business and a reduced drop in international container volumes, suggesting a potential market recovery. However, challenges such as economic weakness, high inventory levels, and increased competition persist, making the road to recovery a long and arduous one.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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Carriers Key Roles in Global Shipping Risk Management

Carriers Key Roles in Global Shipping Risk Management

This article provides a detailed analysis of the core responsibilities and obligations of carriers in international shipping, particularly in multimodal transport. It covers aspects such as providing seaworthy vessels, proper cargo handling, and adhering to shipping routes. The article also discusses the definition of responsibilities in cargo receipt and delivery, situations of exemption, and the special liabilities and compensation limits that apply in intermodal transport scenarios.

08/04/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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US Rail Freight Intermodal Volumes Decline in Late September

US Rail Freight Intermodal Volumes Decline in Late September

For the week ending September 20, 2025, US rail freight volume decreased by 1.8% year-over-year, and intermodal volume decreased by 2.5%. Grain and metallic ores shipments increased, while coal, miscellaneous carloads, and nonmetallic minerals declined. Despite the recent downturn, year-to-date rail freight volume is up 2.2%, and intermodal volume is up 3.6% compared to 2024. Macroeconomic conditions, industry-specific factors, and supply chain issues can all influence rail transport volumes.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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