US Rail Intermodal Gains Offset Carload Declines

US Rail Intermodal Gains Offset Carload Declines

According to the Association of American Railroads, the U.S. rail freight market showed a divergence in the week ending October 17th. Container traffic increased by 11.3% year-over-year, while traditional freight declined by 7.5%. E-commerce growth and supply chain restructuring are driving the growth of container business. Meanwhile, energy transition and manufacturing adjustments are causing the decline in traditional freight. Railway companies should increase investment in container business, expand diversified businesses, strengthen technological innovation, and actively participate in policy making.

01/17/2026 Logistics
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Intermodal Transport Faces Postpandemic Congestion Capacity Crunch

Intermodal Transport Faces Postpandemic Congestion Capacity Crunch

Larry Gross highlighted the challenges facing multimodal transportation at the RailTrends conference, including congestion and capacity shortages, leading to market share decline. He emphasized the need to reshape the supply chain, focusing on resilience and capacity. Gross also predicted a future shift in freight volume from west to east. He urged the industry to avoid repeating past mistakes and capitalize on emerging opportunities. The presentation underscores the critical need for innovation and strategic planning within the multimodal sector to navigate current and future supply chain disruptions.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Intermodal Transport Adapts to Postpandemic Shifts

US Intermodal Transport Adapts to Postpandemic Shifts

Based on an interview with Larry Gross, this paper analyzes the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on US multimodal transportation, including volume fluctuations, capacity bottlenecks, economic reopening, peak season forecasting, and potential post-pandemic transformations. It emphasizes the importance of digital transformation, automation, sustainability, and data-driven decision-making. The paper also provides development suggestions for multimodal transportation companies to navigate the evolving landscape and adapt to the new normal in the supply chain.

01/27/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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January Truckload Rates Rise As Intermodal Declines

January Truckload Rates Rise As Intermodal Declines

Cass Information Systems and Avondale Partners data reveals a divergence in U.S. trucking and rail intermodal rates in January, reflecting market supply and demand differences. Companies need to meticulously analyze routes, cargo types, and time requirements to flexibly adjust transportation strategies. This is crucial to navigate market fluctuations and maintain a competitive cost advantage. Understanding these dynamics allows for optimized logistics planning and efficient resource allocation in a constantly evolving freight landscape.

01/29/2026 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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US Intermodal Volume Drops Raising Logistics Concerns

US Intermodal Volume Drops Raising Logistics Concerns

US intermodal data declined in September, with trailer transport experiencing a significant drop. Domestic containers saw slight growth, while international containers presented mixed results. Experts suggest that inflation and oil prices have a complex impact. To address these challenges and achieve sustainable development, businesses should optimize their supply chains, invest in technology, and strengthen collaboration. The decline highlights the need for proactive strategies in a volatile economic environment, emphasizing resilience and adaptability within the logistics and supply chain sectors.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Carloads Flat Intermodal Gains

US Rail Freight Carloads Flat Intermodal Gains

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail carloads increased slightly by 0.002% in the first week of October, while intermodal volume rose by 6.7% year-over-year. Year-to-date, carloads are up 2.1% and intermodal volume is up 3.6%. The report reveals market adjustments to changing conditions and highlights the need for the rail industry to seize opportunities amidst challenges. Innovation, technology, and collaboration are crucial for achieving sustainable development in the railway sector.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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Trade Uncertainty Boosts North American Intermodal Growth

Trade Uncertainty Boosts North American Intermodal Growth

Multimodal transportation expert Larry Gross points out that international freight is experiencing a reduced impact from tariffs, while the domestic freight market appears relatively optimistic. He believes domestic multimodal transport is key to future growth, requiring a breakthrough of the "donut effect" to increase its share in the medium and long-haul transportation market. Simultaneously, attention should be paid to external factors such as global shipping routes, trucking capacity, and driver availability to seize future opportunities.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Intermodal Declines Ease As Domestic Demand Rises

Intermodal Declines Ease As Domestic Demand Rises

Despite continued declines in intermodal volumes in September, the rate of decrease narrowed, with domestic container volumes showing a positive trend. According to the IANA report, economic weakness and high inventory levels are the primary constraints, but a turnaround is expected in the second half of the year. Experts believe that intense market competition requires companies to optimize operations and seize opportunities for growth. The resilience in domestic container volume suggests underlying strength in certain sectors, warranting further investigation and strategic adjustments by industry players.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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