US Rail Freight Declines Amid Economic Slowdown

US Rail Freight Declines Amid Economic Slowdown

In early September 2025, U.S. rail freight and intermodal volume decreased year-over-year, but cumulative volume for the year remained positive. Chemical and automotive shipments performed strongly, while coal declined. Macroeconomic factors, energy prices, industrial activity, and competitive dynamics influenced rail transport. Moving forward, the railway industry needs to improve efficiency, embrace technology, strengthen collaboration, and focus on environmental protection to address challenges and maintain competitiveness.

02/04/2026 Logistics
Read More
US Rail Freight Volumes Drop Amid Weak Demand Industry Shifts

US Rail Freight Volumes Drop Amid Weak Demand Industry Shifts

The latest data from the Association of American Railroads shows a continued year-over-year decline in U.S. rail freight and intermodal volume, reflecting structural economic changes and weak consumer demand. The report analyzes freight volume changes across various commodity categories, revealing the potential impact of slowing economic growth, weakened corporate profits, reduced job creation, and supply chain disruptions. It also explores the challenges and opportunities facing the rail transportation industry, providing valuable insights for investors and policymakers. This data serves as a key economic indicator.

02/04/2026 Logistics
Read More
US Rail Freight Rises Slightly Intermodal Declines in October

US Rail Freight Rises Slightly Intermodal Declines in October

U.S. rail freight saw a slight increase in overall volume, while intermodal transportation experienced a decline. Certain freight categories demonstrated growth, while others decreased. Despite short-term fluctuations, the long-term trend remains positive. Railroad companies need to improve operational efficiency and adapt to evolving market demands to capitalize on future opportunities. This includes optimizing resource allocation, enhancing customer service, and embracing technological advancements to maintain competitiveness and sustain growth in the rail freight sector.

01/17/2026 Logistics
Read More
US Freight Volume Reaches Record High Despite Economic Challenges

US Freight Volume Reaches Record High Despite Economic Challenges

The U.S. Freight Transportation Services Index (Freight TSI) reached a record high of 142.4 in June, surpassing the previous peak in August 2019. Despite mixed economic indicators, the increase in freight volume reflects economic resilience. Growth was observed across trucking, rail, air, and water transportation, while rail intermodal and pipeline transportation declined. Businesses should pay close attention to macroeconomic conditions, consumer demand, supply chain dynamics, and regulatory changes to adapt their strategies accordingly.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
Shanghaiamsterdam Rail Freight Demand Jumps Amid Rising Cargo Volume

Shanghaiamsterdam Rail Freight Demand Jumps Amid Rising Cargo Volume

Shanghai Zhongyang Freight Forwarding Co., Ltd. has issued a request to transport 100 tons of goods from Shanghai to Amsterdam by rail, with a deadline of March 8, 2025. This demand highlights the dynamism of China-Europe trade and the recognition of rail transport. It indicates another potential growth point in China-Europe trade, showcasing the increasing reliance on efficient and reliable transportation solutions for international commerce.

08/21/2025 Logistics
Read More
ATA Forecasts Rising Freight Volume in Trucking Through 2035

ATA Forecasts Rising Freight Volume in Trucking Through 2035

The American Trucking Associations (ATA) forecasts that trucking will remain dominant despite recent freight volume declines. They project a 1.6% increase in freight volume by 2025, reaching nearly 14 million tons by 2035. The report emphasizes trucking's central role within the supply chain and provides crucial insights for industry leaders and policymakers. It offers valuable data and projections for strategic planning within the trucking and logistics sectors.

01/07/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
US Freight Volume Reaches Record High Despite Economic Challenges

US Freight Volume Reaches Record High Despite Economic Challenges

The U.S. Freight Transportation Services Index (Freight TSI) reached a record high in June, demonstrating resilience amidst economic headwinds. Growth was driven by trucking, rail, air, and water transportation. However, economic indicators present a mixed picture. As a leading indicator, the Freight TSI reflects consumer demand and supply chain conditions, providing crucial insights for businesses and policymakers. It offers a valuable snapshot of the current economic landscape and potential future trends within the freight sector.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
US Trucking Freight Volume Rebounds Hinting at Economic Recovery

US Trucking Freight Volume Rebounds Hinting at Economic Recovery

According to data from the American Trucking Associations, the U.S. Freight Tonnage Index increased by 0.9% year-over-year in December, ending a two-month decline. This data suggests that the U.S. freight market may be gradually emerging from its downturn. However, whether the market is truly recovering requires continued monitoring.

01/28/2026 Logistics
Read More
US Freight Volume Hits Record High Testing Economic Recovery

US Freight Volume Hits Record High Testing Economic Recovery

US freight tonnage has reached record highs, signaling economic recovery. However, challenges such as tight capacity and increasing regulations persist. Logistics companies need to improve efficiency, embrace technology, and expand services to achieve digital transformation and green logistics. Only then can they seize opportunities and meet the challenges ahead. The record freight volume indicates a positive economic outlook but also highlights the need for innovation and adaptation within the logistics sector.

01/28/2026 Logistics
Read More
US Trucking Freight Volume Rises Hinting at Economic Rebound

US Trucking Freight Volume Rises Hinting at Economic Rebound

According to data from the American Trucking Associations (ATA), freight volume surged 5.5% year-over-year and 0.5% month-over-month in February, marking the largest monthly increase since July 1998. The recovery in manufacturing, retail, and real estate sectors fueled this growth. However, rising fuel prices and tight capacity remain potential challenges. Analysts believe that freight volume growth will outpace capacity growth slightly, highlighting the urgent need for reinvestment in the industry.

01/28/2026 Logistics
Read More