US Rail Freight Rebounds Amid Mixed Growth Trends

US Rail Freight Rebounds Amid Mixed Growth Trends

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows US rail freight and intermodal volume increased year-over-year in March, partially due to a low base in the same period last year. Performance varied across segments, with intermodal showing strong growth. Looking ahead, challenges include the pandemic, supply chain bottlenecks, and industry restructuring. Opportunities arise from infrastructure investment, intermodal development, and technological innovation. Railroad companies need to respond proactively, and shippers should optimize their logistics strategies. The future of rail freight is intertwined with these evolving dynamics.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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Extreme Weather Exposes Fragile Global Supply Chains

Extreme Weather Exposes Fragile Global Supply Chains

The North American logistics industry is facing a double challenge of aging infrastructure and increasingly frequent extreme weather events. This article analyzes the delays and increased costs caused by this predicament. Using the Texas storm as an example, it explores how companies can use technology and risk management to address these challenges. It emphasizes the importance of strengthening infrastructure construction and improving emergency response capabilities. This will help mitigate disruptions and ensure a more resilient supply chain in the face of growing environmental and infrastructural pressures.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Bing Ads Guide for Entering US and EU Markets

Bing Ads Guide for Entering US and EU Markets

This article delves into the unique advantages of Bing Ads in search arbitrage within the European and American markets. It provides a comprehensive guide for beginners on setting up Bing Ads campaigns, covering crucial steps such as goal setting, structure configuration, keyword selection, ad copywriting, budget bidding, and continuous optimization. This guide aims to empower cross-border e-commerce businesses to leverage Bing Ads for more efficient marketing and achieve better results. It offers practical insights and actionable strategies to maximize ROI on Bing advertising campaigns.

01/20/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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US Rail Freight Mixed in March Coal Autos Rise

US Rail Freight Mixed in March Coal Autos Rise

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight and intermodal volumes decreased year-over-year in the first week of March, while coal, petroleum, and automotive shipments bucked the trend with increases. Economic downturn, inflation, and supply chain issues are key contributing factors. Logistics companies need to optimize operations, expand services, strengthen partnerships, and embrace digitalization to address challenges and seize opportunities. These strategies are crucial for navigating the current economic climate and ensuring future growth in the face of fluctuating freight demands.

01/20/2026 Logistics
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US Businesses Consumers Hit Hard by Trade War Tariffs

US Businesses Consumers Hit Hard by Trade War Tariffs

Data from the 'Tariffs Hurt the Heartland' organization reveals the negative impact of the US-China trade war on the US economy. American consumers and businesses have paid an additional $38 billion in tariffs. These tariffs have led to increased prices, decreased corporate profits, and disruptions to global trade patterns. Businesses should diversify supply chains and optimize production processes, while governments should reduce tariffs and provide subsidies to jointly address these challenges. The trade war's economic consequences necessitate collaborative solutions to mitigate its adverse effects.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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ALAN Awards Humanitarian Logistics Excellence

ALAN Awards Humanitarian Logistics Excellence

The American Logistics Aid Network (ALAN) presents the Humanitarian Logistics Awards to recognize companies and individuals who have made outstanding contributions to disaster relief through innovative supply chain solutions. The awards encompass four categories: financial contributions, employee engagement, academic research, and lifetime achievement. The goal is to encourage greater involvement in humanitarian efforts and collectively address the increasingly severe global crises. These awards highlight the crucial role of logistics and supply chain management in effectively responding to disasters and providing aid to those in need.

01/20/2026 Logistics
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Rail and Intermodal Freight Hit by Rising Fuel Costs

Rail and Intermodal Freight Hit by Rising Fuel Costs

According to the Association of American Railroads, rail freight and intermodal volumes have recently seen slight declines, but cumulative totals remain positive. Rising fuel costs are driving shippers to explore intermodal solutions, although performance varies across different commodity categories. Looking ahead, strengthened infrastructure development and supportive policies will be crucial for fostering the sustainable growth of rail freight and intermodal transportation. While recent trends show minor dips, the overall picture suggests continued reliance on rail and intermodal for efficient and cost-effective freight movement.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Data Shows Mixed October Performance

US Rail Freight Data Shows Mixed October Performance

Data from the Association of American Railroads indicates a year-over-year decline in U.S. rail freight volume in late October, although some commodity categories experienced growth. Intermodal traffic saw a larger decrease. Year-to-date figures remain positive. The article analyzes contributing factors to these trends and looks ahead to the challenges and opportunities facing the rail freight industry. It examines the interplay between economic indicators and freight transportation, highlighting the impact of factors like consumer demand and supply chain dynamics on rail performance.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Merger Delay Threatens 85B Supply Chain Impact

US Rail Merger Delay Threatens 85B Supply Chain Impact

The delayed submission of the $85 billion merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern has sent shockwaves through the industry. This merger aims to create a transcontinental railroad empire spanning the East and West coasts of the United States. However, it faces opposition from competitor BNSF and concerns from labor unions. The Surface Transportation Board's (STB) ultimate decision will determine the future landscape of the American railroad industry, impacting supply chains and competition. The outcome will significantly reshape how goods are transported across the nation.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Hurricane Season ALAN Advises Resilient Supply Chain Strategies

Hurricane Season ALAN Advises Resilient Supply Chain Strategies

The American Logistics Aid Network (ALAN) provides five key strategies for logistics professionals to prepare for hurricane season. These include ensuring personnel safety, staying informed with real-time information, connecting with logistics needs, offering or requesting support, and engaging in relief efforts responsibly. By implementing these strategies, businesses can effectively navigate the challenges posed by hurricanes, ensuring smooth supply chain operations and providing timely and effective assistance to affected communities. These proactive measures are crucial for minimizing disruption and maximizing aid delivery during and after a hurricane.

01/01/2026 Logistics
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