US Rail Freight Growth Uneven As Carloads Rise Intermodal Falls

US Rail Freight Growth Uneven As Carloads Rise Intermodal Falls

The latest US rail freight data reveals a year-over-year increase in carload traffic, driven by strong demand for nonmetallic minerals, coal, and motor vehicle parts. However, intermodal container and trailer volumes declined year-over-year, reflecting easing supply chain bottlenecks and cooling consumer demand. Overall North American rail freight volumes show a similar diverging trend. Moving forward, railway companies need to improve operational efficiency and expand their business areas to address challenges and seize opportunities.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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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.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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UPS Teamsters Agree to Add AC to 5000 Trucks Amid Heat Risks

UPS Teamsters Agree to Add AC to 5000 Trucks Amid Heat Risks

UPS and the union have reached an agreement to install air conditioning in 5,000 existing delivery vehicles in the hottest regions and test cargo area air conditioning. This initiative aims to protect employee health and is a significant advancement in their five-year labor agreement. The union emphasizes that it will monitor the retrofit progress to ensure frontline employees receive the cooling protection they deserve. This agreement addresses concerns about working conditions and prioritizes the well-being of UPS drivers during extreme heat.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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UPS Package Volume Drops As Ecommerce Growth Slows

UPS Package Volume Drops As Ecommerce Growth Slows

UPS experienced an unexpected decline in package volume in the first quarter, primarily due to slowing e-commerce growth and changing consumer habits. Despite this, UPS is addressing the challenges by increasing revenue per piece and optimizing capacity utilization. Amazon's 'Buy with Prime' service also presents new competitive pressure for UPS. The company's future prospects hinge on its ability to successfully adapt and transform in this evolving landscape. This includes navigating the complexities of a cooling e-commerce sector and intensifying competition.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Amazon Sellers Struggle As Funding Dries Up

Amazon Sellers Struggle As Funding Dries Up

The Amazon brand acquisition frenzy is cooling down, with funding plummeting by over 80%, leaving the industry facing internal and external challenges. Acquirers are transforming to survive, urging sellers to choose partners cautiously. The industry is undergoing a rational return and value reconstruction, emphasizing operations, brand building, and diversified channel expansion in the future. The focus shifts from rapid acquisition to sustainable growth and long-term brand value creation. Sellers need to carefully evaluate potential acquirers based on their operational capabilities and commitment to brand development.

01/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Industrial Real Estate Deals Drop Sharply As Market Cools

Industrial Real Estate Deals Drop Sharply As Market Cools

CBRE research reveals a significant 36% drop in U.S. industrial real estate leases exceeding one million square feet in the first half of 2023, with overall leased area declining by 18%. Economic uncertainty and inventory normalization are key drivers. Renewal rates are up, with retailers and third-party logistics (3PL) providers being the primary tenants. Experts anticipate increased leasing activity from 3PLs and a continued trend of companies renewing existing leases. The market is experiencing a slowdown compared to the previous year's booming activity.

01/22/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Truckload Rates and Volume Decline in July

US Truckload Rates and Volume Decline in July

DAT Freight & Analytics data indicates a decline in both freight rates and volumes in the U.S. spot truckload market from July 21-27. The dry van truckload ratio reached a record high, but linehaul rates decreased. Refrigerated freight rates experienced a significant drop due to weak agricultural shipments. Flatbed freight volumes and rates also declined. The market may be influenced by seasonal factors, and future trends remain to be seen.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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VLCC Market Investment Opportunities Analyzed

VLCC Market Investment Opportunities Analyzed

Drewry's independent analysis of the VLCC market provides investors with essential market insights, including supply and demand conditions, market dynamics, and future trends, helping clients better assess investment opportunities in the shipping sector.

08/06/2025 Logistics
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