US Rail Freight Growth Mixed As Carload Gains Offset Intermodal Losses

US Rail Freight Growth Mixed As Carload Gains Offset Intermodal Losses

The US rail freight market in September 2021 saw a mixed performance with increased carload traffic but a decline in intermodal volume. Carload shipments of coal and metallic ores showed significant growth, while automobiles & parts and grain decreased. Cumulative data for the year remained strong. Key factors for future development include digital transformation, infrastructure development, expansion of service offerings, and a focus on sustainability. These strategies are crucial for adapting to evolving market demands and ensuring the long-term viability of the rail freight industry.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Boom Sparks Economic Recovery Debate

US Rail Freight Boom Sparks Economic Recovery Debate

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows a recent significant increase in U.S. rail freight volume, although it remains below pre-pandemic levels in the long term. Coal, nonmetallic minerals, and chemical products are the primary drivers of this growth. While intermodal transport has seen some increase, it is still lower than the same period last year. Future growth faces multiple uncertainties, including the pandemic, inflation, and geopolitical factors. The full recovery of rail freight, a key indicator of economic health, remains to be seen.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Declines in April but Maintains Annual Growth

US Rail Freight Declines in April but Maintains Annual Growth

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight and intermodal volumes decreased year-over-year in mid-April, but cumulative volumes remained up for the year. Freight saw increases in chemicals and coal, while grain, metallic ores, and petroleum declined. Intermodal continues to face challenges. Overall, rail transport in North America declined. Key influencing factors include macroeconomic conditions, supply chain dynamics, and industry structural changes. Future focus should be on long-term trends, addressing challenges, and building an efficient intermodal transportation system.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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EU Halts Aviation Carbon Tax Balancing Industry Relief and Climate Targets

EU Halts Aviation Carbon Tax Balancing Industry Relief and Climate Targets

The EU's suspension of the aviation carbon tax is welcomed by the US House Transportation Committee. This move stems from controversy surrounding the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS), with countries like the US long opposing its extraterritorial jurisdiction. The suspension may reduce airline costs and ease trade tensions, but it could also weaken global climate governance. Future efforts should focus on strengthening international cooperation and developing a global aviation emissions reduction mechanism. The pause highlights the need for a unified approach to address aviation's environmental impact.

02/12/2026 Logistics
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Supply Chain Disruptions Cut Into Corporate Profits

Supply Chain Disruptions Cut Into Corporate Profits

Supply chain damage extends beyond logistics, impacting sales, marketing, and causing hidden losses. Businesses should break down departmental silos and build a comprehensive damage prevention system. This includes optimizing packaging, strengthening transportation management, and shifting from reactive measures to proactive prevention. By minimizing damage throughout the supply chain, companies can improve customer satisfaction and enhance brand competitiveness. A proactive approach to damage control not only reduces costs but also builds a more resilient and efficient supply chain, leading to long-term profitability and customer loyalty.

Maritime Industry Adapts to Postpandemic new Normal

Maritime Industry Adapts to Postpandemic new Normal

This paper delves into the challenges and opportunities facing the current maritime industry, focusing on the impact of factors such as weak demand, overcapacity, and policy risks on the market. Through the perspective of the Chief Operating Officer of the South Carolina Ports Authority, it explores how shipping companies and ports can respond to change and embrace the future through excellent service, innovative technologies, and infrastructure development. The analysis highlights strategies for navigating market volatility and ensuring long-term sustainability in the evolving global trade landscape.

02/12/2026 Logistics
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Boston Port Thrives with Niche Strategy Amid Rivalry

Boston Port Thrives with Niche Strategy Amid Rivalry

Boston Harbor distinguishes itself in the New England port competition through its unique geographic location, strategic investments, and differentiated competitive strategies. By leveraging sea-air intermodal transport, diversified shipping routes, and balanced import-export trade, the port has successfully cultivated a sustainable niche market. This provides valuable lessons for other ports seeking to thrive in a competitive environment. The port's focus on specialized services and efficient logistics has allowed it to carve out a unique position and attract a specific clientele, ensuring its long-term viability.

02/12/2026 Logistics
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Global Airlines Adopt NDC to Boost Profits Customer Loyalty

Global Airlines Adopt NDC to Boost Profits Customer Loyalty

The airline industry has long suffered from low profit margins, making retail transformation essential. By adopting NDC (New Distribution Capability), airlines can achieve cost control, revenue growth, and enhanced customer loyalty. The industry will likely see increased differentiation, with those embracing NDC benefiting and those clinging to traditional methods facing challenges. Accelya is committed to lowering the barriers to NDC adoption, helping airlines achieve digital transformation and collectively embrace a brighter future for the aviation industry. This transition is crucial for survival and sustained profitability.

Southeast Asias Toy Food and Home Goods Markets Surge

Southeast Asias Toy Food and Home Goods Markets Surge

This article analyzes consumer trends in the Southeast Asian toy, food, and home goods markets on the Lazada platform. It highlights the dual drivers of intellectualization and personalization in the toy market, the popularity of Chinese cuisine in Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand, and the strong demand for pest control and cleaning products. Furthermore, it provides merchants with recommendations on product selection, inventory management, marketing, and customer service in preparation for the Lazada BDay mega sale.

Brand Value Holds Firm Amid Interestbased Ecommerce Shift

Brand Value Holds Firm Amid Interestbased Ecommerce Shift

This paper explores the significance of brand value in the era of interest-based e-commerce. It argues that the rapid success stories fueled by newbie bonuses are unsustainable, and companies should transform these bonuses into core competencies. The relationship between IP and brand resembles that of fashion and classics. Companies should focus on brand building, turning opportunities into capabilities. The essence of commerce is symbiosis, and a brand is a stable cognitive symbol, the cornerstone for enterprises to remain invincible in market competition. Brand building is crucial for long-term success.