US Rail Freight Container Volumes Rise As Traditional Cargo Slows

US Rail Freight Container Volumes Rise As Traditional Cargo Slows

The latest data from the Association of American Railroads shows a significant increase in container traffic, reaching a record high, while traditional freight volumes are mixed. Although cumulative year-to-date figures still face pressure, the industry remains confident about the future and is actively transforming and upgrading. It is embracing technological innovation to adapt to market changes. The surge in container shipments suggests a strengthening supply chain and potentially signals positive momentum in the broader economic recovery.

01/17/2026 Logistics
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Freight Recession Worsens Amid Economic Challenges Cass Index

Freight Recession Worsens Amid Economic Challenges Cass Index

The Cass Freight Index indicates a continued decline in freight volume and expenditures in October, signaling a market downturn. To navigate this challenging economic period, businesses need to focus on lean operations, expand their business scope, innovate their business models, and strengthen risk management. These strategies will enable them to weather the economic downturn and position themselves for a robust recovery when the market rebounds. Proactive adaptation is crucial for sustained success in the face of economic headwinds.

Ocean Freight Rates Volatility Spurs Costsaving Strategies

Ocean Freight Rates Volatility Spurs Costsaving Strategies

This article provides an in-depth analysis of the latest trends and influencing factors in international shipping prices. It compares past and present high freight rates, explains the composition of shipping costs, and offers a calculation method for China-US shipping prices. Furthermore, the article highlights the importance of the Baltic Dry Index (BDI) as a market indicator and provides practical strategies for businesses to reduce shipping costs, helping them effectively control expenses in a rapidly changing market.

02/02/2026 Logistics
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US Services Sector Defies Economic Challenges

US Services Sector Defies Economic Challenges

The US ISM report indicates a slight cooling in non-manufacturing activity in January, but it remains in expansion territory, marking the 108th consecutive month of growth. Key indicators presented a mixed picture, with the government shutdown adding uncertainty. Experts suggest that underlying growth resilience persists. Moving forward, attention should be paid to potential risks, and a flexible approach is needed to navigate market changes. Overall, the non-manufacturing sector continues to show positive, albeit tempered, performance.

Rakuten France Eyes Crossborder Ecommerce Growth

Rakuten France Eyes Crossborder Ecommerce Growth

Rakuten France, a leading e-commerce platform in Europe, offers a blue ocean market opportunity for cross-border sellers. This article details the platform's advantages, registration requirements, fees, logistics policies, and best-selling product categories, providing a practical guide for sellers interested in entering the French market. It covers key aspects like account setup, product listing, and fulfillment strategies to help sellers succeed on Rakuten France and tap into the growing online retail sector in France.

Tiktok Shop Shifts Strategy Now Welcomes Food Merchants

Tiktok Shop Shifts Strategy Now Welcomes Food Merchants

Starting in February, TikTok Shop will implement single-category operations, moving away from being a 'general store'. Food and grocery categories are being selectively opened in five countries including Vietnam. Businesses need to meet specific qualifications and requirements. Refined and specialized operations are now crucial for success on the platform. This shift emphasizes a more focused approach to product offerings and a greater need for expertise within specific categories to thrive in the TikTok Shop marketplace.

Alipay Expands Into Short Videos to Rival Content Platforms

Alipay Expands Into Short Videos to Rival Content Platforms

Alipay is actively expanding into the short video sector by upgrading its Life Account and launching features like "Look Around," aiming to move beyond its image as just a payment tool. Despite challenges like ingrained user perceptions and building a content ecosystem, Alipay has the potential to succeed in short video due to its massive user base and strengths in the financial sector. Live streaming e-commerce may become a new growth driver for Alipay in the future.

Tiktok Explores Talkshoplive Deal to Expand US Live Shopping

Tiktok Explores Talkshoplive Deal to Expand US Live Shopping

TikTok may partner with TalkShopLive to launch a live shopping platform in North America through an "outsourcing" approach, adopting a workaround strategy to address challenges in the US market. Whether this move will be successful and how TikTok will further develop its live commerce business remains to be seen. This partnership represents a potential strategic shift for TikTok as it navigates the complexities of the US market and explores alternative avenues for growth in the live shopping sector.

Hull Leads Uks Humber Estuary Trade Revival

Hull Leads Uks Humber Estuary Trade Revival

Hull Port is a significant hub port in the UK, boasting a prominent location. It is currently undergoing infrastructure upgrades and digital transformation to enhance its competitiveness. This provides a comprehensive reference for port operations, highlighting Hull's strategic importance in facilitating UK trade and its ongoing efforts to modernize its facilities and services to meet the evolving demands of the logistics industry. The port's development is crucial for regional economic growth and its role in international trade.

Shopifys 2B Deliverr Buy Aims to Rival Amazon Logistics

Shopifys 2B Deliverr Buy Aims to Rival Amazon Logistics

Shopify plans to acquire Deliverr for $2 billion to address its logistics shortcomings and catch up with Amazon's 'two-day delivery' standard. This move may intensify competition in e-commerce logistics and improve overall industry service levels. The acquisition's rationale and risks coexist, and the ultimate outcome will have a profound impact on Shopify and the entire e-commerce ecosystem. It represents a significant investment in fulfillment infrastructure and a direct challenge to Amazon's dominance in fast shipping.