West Coast Imports Boost US Intermodal Volumes in Q4

West Coast Imports Boost US Intermodal Volumes in Q4

Data from the Intermodal Association of North America shows a strong start to Q4 for intermodal transportation, driven by a surge in West Coast imports and robust consumer spending. International Standard Containers (ISO) experienced significant growth, while trailer volumes continued to decline. International volumes are expected to remain strong through the end of the year. Labor agreements and the Asian Lunar New Year are anticipated to impact Q1 freight volumes.

01/30/2026 Logistics
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West Coast Import Boom Fuels Strong Q4 Intermodal Growth

West Coast Import Boom Fuels Strong Q4 Intermodal Growth

The Intermodal Association of North America (IANA) reported a strong start to Q4 for intermodal transportation, with October volumes up 8.9% year-over-year. This growth was fueled by a surge in West Coast imports and robust consumer spending. International containers were a key driver, showing a cumulative increase of 15.2% for the year. Industry experts anticipate strong international freight volumes to continue through the end of the year. Tightening truck capacity is expected to further benefit intermodal transportation.

01/30/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Intermodal Rises Coal Declines in February

US Rail Freight Intermodal Rises Coal Declines in February

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail carload traffic decreased slightly by 0.7% year-over-year for the week ending February 8. However, intermodal traffic increased by 7.4%. Chemical and nonmetallic minerals carloads increased, while coal and metallic ores carloads declined. Year-to-date, carload traffic is even with last year, while intermodal traffic is up 9.7%. The rail freight market is experiencing structural changes, with intermodal transportation becoming a major driver of growth.

01/30/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Rises Intermodal Surges in Early March

US Rail Freight Rises Intermodal Surges in Early March

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight and intermodal volume both increased year-over-year for the week ending March 8, 2025. However, year-to-date, total carload traffic is down 1.5%, while intermodal volume is up 8.4%. Coal and grain shipments increased, while metallic ores, chemicals, and forest products declined. Railroad companies should capitalize on intermodal opportunities and address freight challenges to achieve sustainable growth.

01/30/2026 Logistics
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Bangkok Air Freight Costs Outweigh Benefits Vs Lima Study Finds

Bangkok Air Freight Costs Outweigh Benefits Vs Lima Study Finds

This paper comparatively analyzes two major air freight ports in Bangkok, Thailand: Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) and Laem Chabang Port (LEM). It evaluates them based on geographical location, route network, cargo handling facilities, cost-effectiveness, and multimodal transport capabilities. The aim is to provide a decision-making basis for businesses selecting the appropriate port. It emphasizes the need to comprehensively consider factors such as cargo type, transit time, budget, and intermodal requirements to optimize the supply chain. This analysis helps in making informed choices for efficient and cost-effective logistics operations.

02/03/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Struggles Amid Patchy Economic Recovery

US Rail Freight Struggles Amid Patchy Economic Recovery

US rail freight and intermodal volumes declined year-over-year in late August. While year-to-date freight volume saw a slight increase, intermodal volume experienced a significant decrease. Multiple factors are contributing to this trend. Addressing these challenges requires enhanced efficiency and innovative solutions within the rail freight and intermodal transportation sectors. Monitoring these volumes remains crucial as an economic indicator.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Carloads Dip Intermodal Rises in Early January

US Rail Freight Carloads Dip Intermodal Rises in Early January

US rail freight saw a 2% decrease in carload volume, while intermodal volume increased by 12.8%. The decline in coal transportation was a primary factor in the overall carload decrease. Increased consumer demand fueled the growth in intermodal traffic. The rail freight industry faces structural adjustments and opportunities, with the shift towards intermodal highlighting evolving transportation needs and economic dynamics.

01/19/2026 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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Multimodal Transport Fuels North Americas Trade Growth

Multimodal Transport Fuels North Americas Trade Growth

The North American intermodal market faces downward pressure from international trade, but domestic intermodal shows growth potential. Expert Larry Gross points out that by optimizing operations and strengthening cooperation, domestic intermodal is expected to increase its market share and become a key engine driving future growth. External factors such as global shipping, trucking capacity, and trade policies will also influence the market direction. Focusing on domestic opportunities and improving efficiency are crucial for navigating the current challenges and capitalizing on growth prospects within the North American intermodal landscape.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Rail Freight Growth Signals Economic Recovery

US Rail Freight Growth Signals Economic Recovery

U.S. rail freight and intermodal volumes continue to rise, indicating an economic recovery. Increased shipments of coal and ore are observed, and intermodal transportation is showing strong performance. This growth suggests a positive trend in the overall economy, driven by increased demand for goods and materials transported via rail. The robust intermodal activity further highlights the efficiency and importance of this transportation mode in facilitating trade and commerce.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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