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 traffic decreased by 3.7% year-over-year for the week ending May 21, while intermodal traffic fell by 4.5%. Coal and chemical shipments increased, while grain and metals declined. Year-to-date, freight traffic is up 0.4%, but intermodal traffic is down 6.8%. The decline in rail freight could signal an economic slowdown, requiring proactive responses from railway companies and increased investment from the government.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Declines in May As Economy Struggles

US Rail Freight Declines in May As Economy Struggles

US rail freight volume declined in May, reflecting an uneven economic landscape. While sectors like automotive experienced growth, commodities like grain saw decreases. Intermodal traffic also decreased. Overall freight volume for the first five months showed a slight increase, but intermodal shipments experienced a significant drop. This suggests potential shifts in transportation patterns and highlights the impact of ongoing supply chain adjustments and fluctuating demand across different industries on rail freight activity.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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Freight Index Shows Early Recovery Signs As Intermodal Prices Diverge in Q1 2025

Freight Index Shows Early Recovery Signs As Intermodal Prices Diverge in Q1 2025

The TD Cowen-AFS Freight Index report reveals a diverging trend across various transportation modes in the US freight market, amidst weak demand and excess capacity. Truckload transportation shows cautious optimism, while the parcel sector witnesses intense pricing strategy competition. LTL (Less-Than-Truckload) transportation faces challenges in maintaining pricing discipline. The report provides crucial decision-making insights for industry participants, highlighting the nuances in pricing and demand dynamics across different freight segments. It offers a valuable overview of the current market conditions and potential future trends.

12/31/2025 Logistics Industry Insights
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Key Differences Between MSDS and Air Transport Ids for Cargo Safety

Key Differences Between MSDS and Air Transport Ids for Cargo Safety

This article delves into the core differences and connections between MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) and Air Transport Identification (Air Transport Conditions Identification Report), clarifying their crucial roles in air cargo, especially in the transportation of dangerous goods. MSDS provides comprehensive safety information, while Air Transport Identification focuses on transportation compliance. They complement each other, jointly ensuring aviation transportation safety. Both are essential for safe and compliant air shipment of goods, with the Air Transport Identification specifically verifying that a substance meets the requirements for air transport.

01/23/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Crossborder Ecommerce Faces Rising Full Container Shipping Costs

Crossborder Ecommerce Faces Rising Full Container Shipping Costs

This article provides a detailed analysis of the 'port-to-port' cost structure for full container cross-border ocean shipping. It covers the breakdown of costs at both the port of origin and destination, as well as potential additional fees. This information is designed to help new sellers clarify their costs, enhance transportation efficiency, and maximize profit margins in cross-border logistics.

07/30/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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ONE Releases Guide for Shanghai Port Container Pickup

ONE Releases Guide for Shanghai Port Container Pickup

This paper explores the issue of container pickup for ONE Ocean at Shanghai Port, specifically Waigaoqiao. It points out that the designated pickup location is typically determined by the shipping company. However, the possibility of picking up containers at Waigaoqiao Port may exist through transshipment or communication with the shipping line. Shippers should carefully weigh the advantages and disadvantages based on their specific needs and choose the most suitable logistics solution.

08/21/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Guide to Container Security Seals and Compliance Standards

Guide to Container Security Seals and Compliance Standards

This article delves into common issues related to container seals, including damaged seals, use of non-dedicated seals, arrival of unsealed containers, the differences between dedicated and ordinary seals, and seals applied incorrectly. It provides corresponding solutions aimed at helping cargo owners mitigate risks and ensure the safe and efficient transportation of goods. The analysis covers practical aspects of container sealing to prevent potential problems during ocean freight.

08/21/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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