North American Intermodal Traffic Declines Amid Industry Shifts

North American Intermodal Traffic Declines Amid Industry Shifts

Data from the Intermodal Association of North America (IANA) shows a continued decline in North American intermodal volumes, though the rate of decrease is slowing. This downturn is attributed to a combination of macroeconomic conditions, internal industry factors, and geopolitical influences. IANA suggests that challenges and opportunities coexist, identifying cross-border trade as a potential growth area. Businesses need to transform and innovate, improve service quality and efficiency, expand service offerings, embrace technological innovation, and strengthen cooperation and collaboration to succeed in this evolving landscape.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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North American Intermodal Decline Eases As Domestic Demand Holds Steady

North American Intermodal Decline Eases As Domestic Demand Holds Steady

The Intermodal Association of North America (IANA) reported a 4.3% year-over-year decrease in North American intermodal volume in Q2, although the decline narrowed. Domestic container demand remained robust, increasing by 4.0%, while international standard containers faced challenges such as port congestion and COVID-19 lockdowns, resulting in an 8.4% decrease. The peak season impact is expected to diminish, leading to a more stable trend for the year. Inflation and high oil prices may present opportunities for intermodal transportation.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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North American Intermodal Volume Rebounds Eyes Yearend Growth

North American Intermodal Volume Rebounds Eyes Yearend Growth

North American intermodal volumes rebounded in August, signaling a potential recovery, according to the Intermodal Association of North America. Domestic containers and international ISO containers led the growth, though year-to-date figures remain challenging. Experts suggest a flattening peak season, with inflation and diesel prices presenting both opportunities and challenges. Companies should optimize their supply chains, enhance services, and embrace digitalization to capitalize on the upcoming peak season. The rebound indicates a positive trend despite ongoing economic uncertainties affecting freight transportation.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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Luxury Brands Boost Loyalty with Whiteglove Lastmile Delivery

Luxury Brands Boost Loyalty with Whiteglove Lastmile Delivery

Ryder Last Mile Delivery provides professional white glove service, focusing on in-home delivery of non-standard goods. They enhance customer satisfaction through professional installation, meticulous care, and attentive service. Leveraging advanced technology enables real-time order tracking and proactive notifications, improving transparency. This helps brands earn customer loyalty and achieve long-term business growth by ensuring a premium delivery experience that reflects positively on the brand.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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April Data Shows Mixed Results for Multimodal Transport Sector

April Data Shows Mixed Results for Multimodal Transport Sector

According to the Intermodal Association of North America, North American intermodal volume edged up just 0.2% in April, with divergent performance across segments. Trailer volume declined significantly, domestic containers remained weak, while international containers saw growth against the trend. Factors such as loose truck capacity, railway service adjustments, and trade frictions are impacting industry development. The report forecasts a full-year volume growth of 2%-3%. Companies need to optimize services and increase technology investment to meet the challenges.

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US Rail Freight Sees Winter Carload Drop Amid Intermodal Growth

US Rail Freight Sees Winter Carload Drop Amid Intermodal Growth

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight in February presented a mixed picture. Carload volume plummeted 11.1% year-over-year, dragged down by declining demand for coal, building materials, and automobiles. However, container traffic bucked the trend, growing by 1.8%, demonstrating the resilience of intermodal transportation. Severe weather exacerbated the challenges for traditional freight, highlighting the impact of economic restructuring and supply chain bottlenecks. Rail freight needs to actively transform, embracing intermodal solutions and digital technologies, to achieve a resurgence.

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US Rail Freight Sees Mixed Trends Carloads Drop Container Growth Slows

US Rail Freight Sees Mixed Trends Carloads Drop Container Growth Slows

Data from the Association of American Railroads reveals a divergence in US rail freight: carload traffic is declining year-over-year, primarily due to weak coal demand; container traffic growth is slowing, potentially signaling cooling consumer demand. This analysis examines key factors influencing rail freight volume and explores future opportunities and challenges for the industry. The slowdown in container traffic raises concerns about the overall economic outlook, as it often serves as a leading indicator of consumer spending.

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US Rail Freight Auto Petroleum Up As Coal Declines

US Rail Freight Auto Petroleum Up As Coal Declines

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight traffic decreased by 7.9% year-over-year for the week ending May 9, while intermodal traffic increased by 3.8%, showing a diverging trend. Shipments of motor vehicles & parts and petroleum products increased, while coal shipments decreased significantly. Year-to-date, rail freight traffic is down 1.8%, and intermodal traffic is up 1.7%. Rail freight companies need to actively transform and expand their intermodal transportation business.

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US Rail Freight Sees Carload Drop Intermodal Rise

US Rail Freight Sees Carload Drop Intermodal Rise

The US rail freight market is showing a diverging trend. While carload volume has decreased year-over-year, shipments of grain and forest products have increased. Notably, intermodal volume is growing against the overall trend. Rail companies need to capitalize on intermodal opportunities, proactively address challenges, and develop clear strategies to achieve sustainable development. This requires a focus on efficiency, customer service, and adapting to evolving market demands to maintain competitiveness in the transportation sector.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Automotive Grain Up As Intermodal Lags

US Rail Freight Automotive Grain Up As Intermodal Lags

The Association of American Railroads (AAR) reported a mixed performance in U.S. rail freight for the week ending March 21. Traditional carload traffic saw a slight year-over-year decrease, but grain and automotive shipments performed strongly. Intermodal volume, however, bucked the trend and increased. Year-to-date figures show a small increase in carload volume, while intermodal volume experienced a slight decline. The U.S. rail freight market is undergoing a transformation and upgrade, requiring proactive responses to challenges and the seizing of opportunities.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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