US Rail Freight Declines in Carloads but Rises in Intermodal

US Rail Freight Declines in Carloads but Rises in Intermodal

According to the latest data from the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight carloads decreased by 5.2% year-over-year in the first week of November, while intermodal volume increased by 1.5%. Year-to-date, carload volume is roughly flat, and intermodal volume is down 7%. Factors such as the macroeconomy, energy transition, and supply chain adjustments are impacting rail freight. Businesses need to pay attention to these trends, flexibly adjust their strategies, and seize opportunities to address challenges.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Rebounds in February Amid Economic Recovery

US Rail Freight Rebounds in February Amid Economic Recovery

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows a significant increase in U.S. rail freight and intermodal traffic for the week ending February 19th, signaling economic recovery. Carload volume rose by 38.2% year-over-year, and intermodal volume increased by 26.3%. While total North American rail volume declined, regional interconnected development holds significant potential. Growth in rail freight is driven by economic recovery, infrastructure investments, and energy demand. The industry needs to innovate to address challenges and seize future development opportunities.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Drop Fuels Economic Worries

US Rail Freight Drop Fuels Economic Worries

Declining U.S. rail freight and intermodal volumes signal potential economic downturn risks. The report analyzes the reasons for this decline, including supply chain bottlenecks and inflation, and proposes strategies to address the situation. It emphasizes the importance of monitoring economic performance and taking timely measures to ensure sustained and healthy economic development. Investors and policymakers should pay close attention to this signal. This decline serves as an early indicator, requiring careful consideration and proactive planning to mitigate potential negative impacts on the economy.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Volumes Decline Amid Logistics Shifts

US Rail Freight Volumes Decline Amid Logistics Shifts

Data from the Association of American Railroads indicates a year-over-year decline in both U.S. rail freight and intermodal volumes in May, although performance varied across market segments. Automobiles & parts, crushed stone, gravel, and food showed strong results, while grain, primary metal products, and petroleum products were weaker. Logistics companies need to closely monitor market dynamics, diversify services, innovate technologically, and focus on sustainability to address challenges and seize future opportunities. Diversification and innovation are key to navigate the changing landscape.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Dips in Intermodal

US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Dips in Intermodal

According to the Association of American Railroads, for the week ending August 20th, U.S. rail carload traffic increased year-over-year, while intermodal volume decreased. Year-to-date figures present a mixed picture, indicating overall pressure on the North American rail freight market. Moving forward, the rail industry needs to accelerate reforms, improve efficiency, and embrace green development to address challenges and achieve sustainable growth. The market faces headwinds, requiring adaptation and innovation to maintain competitiveness and capitalize on future opportunities.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Volumes Decline in August Amid Industry Challenges

US Rail Freight Volumes Decline in August Amid Industry Challenges

Data from the Association of American Railroads indicates that U.S. rail freight and intermodal volumes declined year-over-year in the first week of August. Performance varied across sectors, with growth in grain and nonmetallic minerals, while miscellaneous carloads, chemicals, and coal declined. Intermodal transportation faces greater challenges. The overall North American region experienced a synchronized decline. Companies need to optimize operations, expand services, strengthen cooperation, pay attention to market changes, and invest in infrastructure to address challenges and seize opportunities.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Senate Passes STB Reform Bill to Boost Freight Rail Efficiency

US Senate Passes STB Reform Bill to Boost Freight Rail Efficiency

The U.S. Senate passed the Surface Transportation Board (STB) Reauthorization Act of 2015, aiming to enhance the STB's regulatory efficiency and dispute resolution capabilities, revitalizing the U.S. rail freight system. The bill focuses on dispute resolution, proactive regulation, and organizational structure optimization. While widely welcomed, railroad freight reform still faces challenges and requires collaboration from all stakeholders. The act seeks to modernize oversight and address concerns regarding service and rates within the freight rail industry, potentially impacting shippers and carriers alike.

02/12/2026 Logistics
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Global Air Cargo Growth Slows Amid Economic Challenges

Global Air Cargo Growth Slows Amid Economic Challenges

According to IATA data, the global air cargo market is experiencing stagnant growth, facing challenges such as overcapacity and regional divergence. This analysis explores underlying causes like economic slowdown and trade protectionism. It proposes strategies for transformation and upgrading, including expanding service offerings and optimizing route networks. The report emphasizes the need for companies to proactively address market changes, focusing on efficiency, specialization, and innovation to navigate the evolving landscape. Companies must prioritize adapting to fluctuations in the market to remain competitive.

02/12/2026 Logistics
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US Container Imports Rise As Supply Chain Trends Shift Descartes

US Container Imports Rise As Supply Chain Trends Shift Descartes

Descartes' global shipping report reveals a significant rebound in U.S. container imports in January, increasing by 7.2% month-over-month, but still down year-over-year. The report highlights key findings such as easing port congestion, a rebound in Chinese imports, and the lingering effects of the pandemic. It analyzes drivers including consumer demand, inventory levels, and supply chain diversification. The report recommends that businesses strengthen risk management, optimize inventory management, and diversify suppliers to address ongoing supply chain challenges.

02/12/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Supply Chain Council Boosts Resilience Through Collaboration

US Supply Chain Council Boosts Resilience Through Collaboration

The U.S. Supply Chain Council was established to enhance supply chain security and resilience, safeguard jobs, and invest in infrastructure. Through policy advocacy, interest coordination, and public awareness campaigns, the council unites businesses, labor organizations, and other stakeholders to build a secure and efficient supply chain system. This aims to address global instability and provide a guarantee for U.S. economic development. The council's collaborative approach is crucial for navigating complex challenges and ensuring a robust and reliable supply chain for the nation.

01/27/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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