North American Intermodal Market Grows Despite Challenges

North American Intermodal Market Grows Despite Challenges

North American intermodal transportation rebounded strongly in the second quarter, but the growth is partially due to a low base effect and asynchronous trends between international freight and import volumes. International container transport was driven by Canada, and IMC highway transportation saw a strong recovery. Future focus should be on economic, policy, and technological factors to optimize supply chains and capitalize on intermodal opportunities. While the rebound is positive, underlying issues need addressing for sustained growth in the freight market. Careful monitoring of these factors will be crucial for stakeholders.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Volumes Drop in September Raising Economic Worries

US Rail Freight Volumes Drop in September Raising Economic Worries

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows that U.S. rail freight and intermodal traffic both declined year-over-year in the third week of September. Gains in grain and metallic ores were offset by decreases in coal, miscellaneous carloads, and nonmetallic minerals. Despite the recent downturn, year-to-date rail freight and intermodal traffic remain up compared to the same period last year. This suggests a mixed picture of the economy, with some sectors showing growth while others are experiencing contraction, as reflected in the varying commodity transport volumes.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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Trucking Intermodal Rates Decline As Capacity Eases

Trucking Intermodal Rates Decline As Capacity Eases

According to recent data from Cass Information Systems and Avondale Partners, both truckload and intermodal pricing declined in May. While lower freight rates benefit shippers, carriers need to adapt to market changes. Future freight rate trends will be influenced by multiple factors, and market participants should remain vigilant.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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North America Sees Surge in Domestic Intermodal Transport

North America Sees Surge in Domestic Intermodal Transport

Amidst trade uncertainties, domestic intermodal transportation is becoming crucial for growth in the North American multimodal market. This analysis highlights the divergence between international and domestic markets, differences in cross-border transportation, and the phenomenon of early peak seasons. It emphasizes that domestic intermodal is key to future success, requiring a breakthrough of the 'donut effect.' Furthermore, attention should be paid to global shipping, truck supply, and other uncertainties to facilitate market share recovery and growth. The report analyzes how these factors collectively shape the current and future landscape of North American intermodal freight.

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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JB Hunt BNSF GMXT Launch Quantum De Mxico for Usmexico Intermodal Boost

JB Hunt BNSF GMXT Launch Quantum De Mxico for Usmexico Intermodal Boost

J.B. Hunt, BNSF, and GMXT have partnered to launch Quantum de México, an intermodal service aimed at reshaping the US-Mexico freight market. With high on-time performance, real-time tracking, and a dedicated team as core strengths, the service connects major US and Mexican cities. It helps businesses reduce costs, improve efficiency, and lower carbon emissions, fully unlocking the immense potential of the Mexican intermodal market.

01/22/2026 Logistics
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US Trucking Volumes Rise in March Hinting at Economic Recovery

US Trucking Volumes Rise in March Hinting at Economic Recovery

According to data from the American Trucking Associations, truck freight volume saw a slight increase in March. While it didn't fully offset February's decline, it's still a positive sign for economic recovery. Truck freight volume serves as a leading economic indicator, reflecting the activity levels of demand, production, and retail. Moving forward, it's important to monitor factors such as fuel prices, the labor market, and the impact of the global economic situation on freight volume.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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Cass Freight Index Dips in October Fueling Recession Fears

Cass Freight Index Dips in October Fueling Recession Fears

The Cass Freight Index indicates declines in both freight volume and expenditures for October, signaling potential economic headwinds. Freight volume decreased by 9.5% year-over-year, while expenditures fell by 23.3%. A confluence of factors is creating challenges in the market. Companies should adopt strategies such as lean operations and diversification to navigate these difficulties.

Cass Freight Index Shows October Demand Slump Amid Labor Strikes

Cass Freight Index Shows October Demand Slump Amid Labor Strikes

The Cass Freight Index reveals declines in both freight volume and expenditures in October, year-over-year and month-over-month, primarily due to weak demand and the UAW strike. Analysts suggest that private fleets' internal sourcing may lead to overall freight volume outperforming road transport. Looking ahead, economic conditions, geopolitical risks, and technological changes will continue to impact the freight market, requiring proactive responses from businesses.