US Intermodal Volumes Rebound As Domestic Containers Grow

US Intermodal Volumes Rebound As Domestic Containers Grow

US multimodal freight volume decreased by 4.0% year-over-year in September 2023, although the decline narrowed, with domestic container shipments increasing by 5.0%. Full-year cumulative data still indicates pressure due to economic slowdown, high inventory levels, and increased competition. Experts suggest the market remains weak with a muted peak season. Recommendations for businesses include focusing on the domestic market, optimizing operations, strengthening customer relationships, embracing technological innovation, and seizing opportunities to overcome challenges. The overall market remains soft and requires strategic adjustments.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Intermodal Decline Eases in September Signaling Possible Rebound

US Intermodal Decline Eases in September Signaling Possible Rebound

U.S. intermodal volume decreased by 4.0% year-over-year in September 2023, though the decline narrowed, with domestic container shipments showing growth. Economic weakness, high inventories, and truck competition are key challenges. The Intermodal Association of North America anticipates improvement in the second half of the year, but experts believe intense market competition makes recovery challenging. Intermodal transportation needs to enhance services, optimize networks, strengthen technology applications, and deepen cooperation to address challenges and seize opportunities. The market remains competitive, and the path to recovery is uncertain.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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Global Supply Chain Disruptions Challenge Multimodal Transport

Global Supply Chain Disruptions Challenge Multimodal Transport

The Intermodal Association of North America (IANA) reported a significant decline in intermodal volume in Q1 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with total units down 6.7% year-over-year. While domestic containers saw growth, trailers and international containers experienced substantial drops. The pandemic-induced manufacturing shutdowns and decreased imports exacerbated the challenges for trailer transport. The future outlook remains uncertain, with an estimated 15% decline expected for the full year. The industry needs to proceed with caution and adapt to the evolving situation.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Trucking Hits Record Freight Volume Amid Economic Recovery Signs

US Trucking Hits Record Freight Volume Amid Economic Recovery Signs

American Trucking Associations data shows January freight volume hitting a record high, up 6.5% year-over-year, the best since 2011. Inventory replenishment and a recovering housing market are key drivers. However, fiscal challenges and market uncertainty pose potential risks. Analysts suggest focusing on the non-seasonally adjusted index and being wary of capacity risks. A cautiously optimistic outlook prevails, with attention focused on long-term trends. The strong start to the year suggests continued economic momentum, but careful monitoring of potential headwinds is crucial.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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Crossborder Freight Volumes Dip Slightly in June

Crossborder Freight Volumes Dip Slightly in June

In June 2025, cross-border freight volume experienced a slight year-on-year decline of 0.3%, primarily due to a 27.8% reduction in truckbed transportation. Although the total domestic equipment slightly decreased, international containers achieved a 1.0% annual growth. Overall, transportation increased by 4.3% in the first six months of 2025.

07/21/2025 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Trucking Freight Volume Rebounds Hinting at Economic Recovery

US Trucking Freight Volume Rebounds Hinting at Economic Recovery

According to data from the American Trucking Associations, the U.S. Freight Tonnage Index increased by 0.9% year-over-year in December, ending a two-month decline. This data suggests that the U.S. freight market may be gradually emerging from its downturn. However, whether the market is truly recovering requires continued monitoring.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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Shenzhen Customs Drives Innovation Measures to Stabilize Growth for Foreign Trade Enterprises

Shenzhen Customs Drives Innovation Measures to Stabilize Growth for Foreign Trade Enterprises

In the first three quarters of this year, the Qianhai Bay Free Trade Port in Shenzhen achieved a cross-border e-commerce clearance value of 430 million yuan, a staggering increase of 48.5 times year-on-year. This remarkable growth is attributed to innovative measures introduced by Shenzhen Customs, such as expedited clearance and integrated operations within the port area, which significantly improved efficiency and reduced costs for businesses. Moreover, the development of foreign trade enterprises was further promoted through internet platforms and dedicated services, enhancing the appeal of the free trade zone.

11/10/2023 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Carloads Rise Intermodal Falls in Latest AAR Report

US Rail Freight Carloads Rise Intermodal Falls in Latest AAR Report

The latest report from the Association of American Railroads (AAR) indicates a slight increase of 0.6% in U.S. rail carloads for the week ending August 23rd. However, internal dynamics show a divergence, with intermodal traffic decreasing by 1.9% year-over-year. Overall, rail freight volume remains positive year-to-date. The report highlights the impact of consumer demand, supply chain adjustments, and energy transition on rail freight, reflecting the complex dynamics of the U.S. economy. This data provides insights into the current economic landscape and its influence on transportation patterns.

01/22/2026 Logistics
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Freight Market Resilient in November Amid Winter Challenges

Freight Market Resilient in November Amid Winter Challenges

DAT's latest report indicates that while overall freight volumes declined in November, they showed growth within the month. Dry van and refrigerated freight volumes decreased year-over-year, while flatbed volumes increased. Freight rates continued to decline due to excess capacity. Experts predict spot rates may have bottomed out and are expected to rebound in Q1 of next year, with the market moving towards normalization. Freight companies need to pay attention to market dynamics and respond flexibly. The report highlights the need for adaptability in the current freight environment.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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