US Rail Freight Rises for Autos Coal As Intermodal Declines

US Rail Freight Rises for Autos Coal As Intermodal Declines

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail traffic was mixed for the week ending September 9. Carload traffic saw a slight increase driven by demand for motor vehicles, petroleum, and coal, while intermodal volume continued its decline. For the first 36 weeks of 2023, carload traffic is up 0.1%, but intermodal is down significantly by 9.0%, resulting in a total traffic decrease of 4.8% year-over-year. This reflects ongoing challenges in the U.S. freight market.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Rebounds in October on Auto and Grain Demand

US Rail Freight Rebounds in October on Auto and Grain Demand

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight traffic increased by 3.6% in the first week of October, while intermodal traffic rose by 2.5% year-over-year. Automotive, grain, and petroleum products led the gains, though some commodities saw declines. Year-to-date, total freight volume has slightly increased, while intermodal volume has slightly decreased. The data suggests signs of economic recovery but also highlights challenges. Attention should be paid to market dynamics and technological innovation.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Rises on Auto and Grain Demand in October

US Rail Freight Rises on Auto and Grain Demand in October

According to the latest data from the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight and intermodal traffic both increased year-over-year for the week ending October 7th. Significant growth in demand for automobiles and grain transportation drove the overall freight volume upward. While year-to-date intermodal traffic remains down, economic recovery, supply chain improvements, and seasonal factors present opportunities for rail freight. However, the industry faces challenges including macroeconomic conditions, labor relations, and competition from trucking.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Decline Points to Economic Slowdown

US Rail Freight Decline Points to Economic Slowdown

For the week ending August 12th, U.S. rail freight carload and intermodal volume both declined year-over-year. Within carload, gains were seen in motor vehicles & parts and petroleum products, while declines occurred in grain and chemicals. Intermodal traffic significantly decreased, impacted by soft consumer demand. As a leading economic indicator, the weakness in rail freight volume suggests a potential downside risk for the U.S. economy. This decline reflects broader economic challenges and warrants close monitoring.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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STB Implements New Rule to Improve Freight Rail Service

STB Implements New Rule to Improve Freight Rail Service

New STB rules in the United States allow shippers experiencing poor freight service to switch rail carriers, breaking monopolies and potentially improving service. This reciprocal switching regulation aims to address service deficiencies. Industry reaction has been mixed, with some welcoming the increased competition and others expressing concerns about operational challenges and unintended consequences. The actual impact of the new rules remains to be seen and will depend on how they are implemented and utilized by shippers and railroads.

02/11/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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North American Rail Freight Carloads Rise Intermodal Declines

North American Rail Freight Carloads Rise Intermodal Declines

Recent data reveals a mixed picture for the North American rail freight market: carload volume shows slight growth, while intermodal transportation declines. This report analyzes the structural characteristics driving the growth and the reasons behind the decline. It proposes strategies such as lean operations and innovation to help businesses seize opportunities, meet challenges, and achieve sustainable development. The report aims to provide insights for navigating the current market dynamics and fostering long-term success in the rail freight industry.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Carloads Drop Intermodal Rises Slightly

US Rail Freight Carloads Drop Intermodal Rises Slightly

For the week ending November 4, 2023, U.S. rail freight showed mixed results. Carload traffic decreased by 5.2% year-over-year, but the decline narrowed, with gains in categories like automotive, agricultural products, and petroleum. Intermodal volume increased by 1.5% year-over-year. Year-to-date figures indicate carload traffic is roughly flat compared to the same period last year, while intermodal volume is down 7.0%. The rail freight market faces both challenges and opportunities moving forward.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Sees Container Surge Amid Declining Traditional Cargo

US Rail Freight Sees Container Surge Amid Declining Traditional Cargo

The US rail freight market is experiencing a mixed landscape: traditional carload volumes are declining year-over-year, while intermodal volumes are surging. This trend is driven by factors such as the energy transition, supply chain restructuring, and shifts in consumer behavior. Railroads must proactively address these challenges and seize opportunities by diversifying services, embracing technological innovation, prioritizing environmental sustainability, and fostering collaborative partnerships. Only through these strategies can they thrive in the increasingly competitive market.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Declines Amid Demand Slump Structural Shifts

US Rail Freight Declines Amid Demand Slump Structural Shifts

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows a decline in both U.S. rail freight and intermodal volume for the week ending May 21. The analysis delves into the reasons behind this downturn, including slowing economic growth, energy transition, and manufacturing shifts. It also explores the implications for the logistics industry, emphasizing the importance of monitoring industry trends, optimizing service structures, and enhancing service quality. Despite the challenges, the analysis suggests that rail freight still has opportunities for development.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Decline Signals Potential Economic Slowdown

US Rail Freight Decline Signals Potential Economic Slowdown

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows that for the week ending July 16, U.S. rail freight and intermodal traffic decreased year-over-year, with varying performance across commodity categories. The overall decline is attributed to multiple factors including economic slowdown, supply chain disruptions, and energy transition. Despite these challenges, future growth opportunities exist as supply chains ease and infrastructure investments are made. Businesses and investors need to closely monitor market trends and make informed decisions.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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