Cass Freight Index Reports October Decline Amid Weak Demand Strikes

Cass Freight Index Reports October Decline Amid Weak Demand Strikes

The Cass Freight Index report reveals a 9.5% year-over-year decrease in freight volume and a 23.3% year-over-year drop in expenditures for October. Weak demand, compounded by the United Auto Workers strike, contributed to these record lows. Analysts anticipate continued downward pressure on freight volume and rates in the short term. However, the impact of the strike may create the potential for a future rebound in freight activity as production resumes and backlogs are addressed.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Rail Freight Growth Uneven As Carloads Rise Intermodal Falls

US Rail Freight Growth Uneven As Carloads Rise Intermodal Falls

The latest US rail freight data reveals a year-over-year increase in carload traffic, driven by strong demand for nonmetallic minerals, coal, and motor vehicle parts. However, intermodal container and trailer volumes declined year-over-year, reflecting easing supply chain bottlenecks and cooling consumer demand. Overall North American rail freight volumes show a similar diverging trend. Moving forward, railway companies need to improve operational efficiency and expand their business areas to address challenges and seize opportunities.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Sees Mixed Trends Carloads Rise Containers Fall

US Rail Freight Sees Mixed Trends Carloads Rise Containers Fall

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight performance in late January showed divergence: carload volume increased by 3.3% year-over-year, primarily driven by increased shipments of nonmetallic minerals and coal. Container volume decreased by 6.7% year-over-year, reflecting macroeconomic uncertainty and supply chain adjustments. Total North American rail freight volume experienced a slight decrease. Looking ahead, economic recovery, supply chain resilience, sustainable development, and technological innovation will be key factors influencing rail freight trends.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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West Coast Import Boom Fuels Strong Q4 Intermodal Growth

West Coast Import Boom Fuels Strong Q4 Intermodal Growth

The Intermodal Association of North America (IANA) reported a strong start to Q4 for intermodal transportation, with October volumes up 8.9% year-over-year. This growth was fueled by a surge in West Coast imports and robust consumer spending. International containers were a key driver, showing a cumulative increase of 15.2% for the year. Industry experts anticipate strong international freight volumes to continue through the end of the year. Tightening truck capacity is expected to further benefit intermodal transportation.

01/30/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Intermodal Rises Coal Declines in February

US Rail Freight Intermodal Rises Coal Declines in February

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail carload traffic decreased slightly by 0.7% year-over-year for the week ending February 8. However, intermodal traffic increased by 7.4%. Chemical and nonmetallic minerals carloads increased, while coal and metallic ores carloads declined. Year-to-date, carload traffic is even with last year, while intermodal traffic is up 9.7%. The rail freight market is experiencing structural changes, with intermodal transportation becoming a major driver of growth.

01/30/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Faces Growth Challenges and Opportunities in 2025

US Rail Freight Faces Growth Challenges and Opportunities in 2025

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight and intermodal traffic decreased year-over-year for the week ending November 1st, but cumulative freight and intermodal traffic for the first 44 weeks of 2025 increased year-over-year. The report reveals specific performance across commodity categories and suggests strategic recommendations including diversified investments, strengthened supply chain management, and embracing technological innovation. These strategies aim to help businesses seize opportunities, address challenges, and succeed in the future.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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North American Intermodal Volume Falls in July Recovery Expected

North American Intermodal Volume Falls in July Recovery Expected

According to the Intermodal Association of North America, intermodal volumes in July decreased by 9.8% year-over-year, with a cumulative decrease of 9.6% for the year. Key factors include economic downturn, high inventory levels, and reduced consumer demand. The association anticipates a potential recovery in the second half of the year. Businesses should focus on monitoring the economic situation, optimizing operations, expanding services, strengthening technological innovation, and deepening collaboration to address challenges and seize opportunities.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Growth Slows Amid Economic Challenges

US Rail Freight Growth Slows Amid Economic Challenges

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows a year-over-year decrease in both US rail carloads and intermodal units for the week ending December 15th. While cumulative year-to-date figures remain positive, the late-year downturn warrants attention. Key influencing factors include macroeconomic fluctuations, industry restructuring, and changes in the competitive landscape. To address these challenges and achieve sustainable development, railway companies need to increase infrastructure investment, optimize operational management, and expand diversified business ventures.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Retail Sales Rise Modestly in July Amid Steady Recovery

US Retail Sales Rise Modestly in July Amid Steady Recovery

Data from the US Department of Commerce and the National Retail Federation show that retail sales increased by 0.5% month-over-month and 4.0% year-over-year in July. Total retail sales from May to July also grew by 4.0% year-over-year, indicating a steady recovery in the US consumer market. However, future growth still faces challenges such as inflation and supply chain issues. Retailers need to be flexible and adaptable to navigate these challenges.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Flexport Opens New Offices in Amsterdam Hong Kong and New York

Flexport Opens New Offices in Amsterdam Hong Kong and New York

Flexport announced the opening of three new offices in Amsterdam, Hong Kong, and New York. This expansion aims to better serve clients, reduce shipping costs, and foster closer collaboration with asset owners. The move signifies an accelerated global expansion for Flexport and further solidifies its position as a leading technology-driven freight forwarder. This strategic expansion will allow Flexport to provide enhanced services and solutions to its growing global customer base, leveraging its technology platform to optimize supply chains and improve overall efficiency.

11/03/2025 Logistics
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