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, U.S. rail carload traffic increased year-over-year for the week ending January 21st, driven primarily by nonmetallic minerals, coal, and motor vehicle parts. Intermodal traffic, however, decreased compared to the same period last year. Total North American rail traffic experienced a slight decline, reflecting regional economic variations and global economic uncertainties. This data provides insights into the current state of the freight economy and its underlying trends.

01/16/2026 Logistics
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US Container Imports Stabilize in June Amid Trade Uncertainties

US Container Imports Stabilize in June Amid Trade Uncertainties

A Descartes report indicates a slight month-over-month increase in U.S. container imports for June, but a year-over-year decrease persists. China's import share has fallen to a four-year low, while West Coast ports are recovering. Trade policy shifts introduce uncertainty, requiring businesses to diversify sourcing and strengthen supply chain resilience to navigate these challenges. Companies need to adapt to the changing global trade landscape to mitigate risks and maintain operational efficiency.

01/15/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Decline Points to Yearend Economic Slowdown

US Rail Freight Decline Points to Yearend Economic Slowdown

Data from the Association of American Railroads indicates that U.S. rail freight and intermodal traffic decreased year-over-year for the week ending December 15th, but cumulative volumes remain slightly up for the year. Detailed data reveals varied performance across different commodity categories, reflecting structural market adjustments. Railroad companies need to pay attention to macroeconomic factors, supply chains, and the energy transition to actively address challenges, embrace change, and achieve sustainable development.

12/19/2025 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Decline Points to Economic Slowdown

US Rail Freight Decline Points to Economic Slowdown

US rail freight and intermodal volumes have decreased year-over-year, with intermodal showing a significant decline, potentially signaling a slowdown in demand. While cumulative year-to-date growth remains, caution is warranted. The industry faces both challenges and opportunities, necessitating a cautiously optimistic outlook. The sharp drop in intermodal volume is particularly concerning as it often reflects consumer spending and overall economic activity. Monitoring these trends is crucial for understanding future economic performance.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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Cass Freight Index Reveals Yearend Logistics Shifts

Cass Freight Index Reveals Yearend Logistics Shifts

October's Cass Freight Index reveals year-over-year growth in freight volume and expenditures, albeit at a decelerating pace, signaling potential challenges for the logistics market toward year-end. The report analyzes key factors impacting the freight market and looks ahead to future trends driven by technology and green transformation. This provides valuable insights for logistics companies and supply chain management professionals, offering a crucial reference point for navigating the evolving landscape.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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East Coast Port Labor Dispute Shifts Imports to West Coast

East Coast Port Labor Dispute Shifts Imports to West Coast

The rising risk of port strikes on the US East and Gulf Coasts may drive a surge in US import volume in August. Retailers are proactively taking measures such as front-loading shipments and diverting cargo to West Coast ports. The report forecasts a 12.1% year-over-year increase in import volume for the full year 2024. Retailers need to closely monitor the situation and take proactive steps to ensure supply chain stability.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Auto Petroleum Up As Coal Declines

US Rail Freight Auto Petroleum Up As Coal Declines

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight traffic decreased by 7.9% year-over-year for the week ending May 9, while intermodal traffic increased by 3.8%, showing a diverging trend. Shipments of motor vehicles & parts and petroleum products increased, while coal shipments decreased significantly. Year-to-date, rail freight traffic is down 1.8%, and intermodal traffic is up 1.7%. Rail freight companies need to actively transform and expand their intermodal transportation business.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Rebound Hints at Economic Growth

US Rail Freight Rebound Hints at Economic Growth

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight and intermodal volumes both increased year-over-year for the week ending April 26. Rail freight volume rose by 9.0%, primarily driven by increased shipments of coal, grain, and chemicals. Intermodal volume grew by 2.6%. Year-to-date figures show a 1.5% increase in rail freight volume and an 8.0% increase in intermodal volume, suggesting a steady recovery in the rail freight market.

02/03/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads but Loses in Intermodal

US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads but Loses in Intermodal

October 2025 US rail freight data shows a slight increase of 0.3% in carload traffic, but a 4.8% year-over-year decrease in intermodal volume. Shipments of nonmetallic minerals, metallic ores, and chemicals increased, while grain, miscellaneous, and coal shipments declined. Year-to-date, total carload traffic is up 2.0% and intermodal volume is up 3.2%. The data reflects economic structural changes and market uncertainties, requiring the rail industry to address challenges and seize opportunities.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Volumes Decline in October Amid Annual Growth

US Rail Freight Volumes Decline in October Amid Annual Growth

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows that U.S. rail freight and intermodal traffic declined year-over-year in late October, with mixed performance across different market segments. While year-to-date cumulative data remains positive, attention should be paid to the impact of multiple factors, including macroeconomic conditions, supply chains, and energy transition. Moving forward, it is crucial to monitor policy developments, optimize operations, and achieve sustainable growth in the rail freight sector.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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