US Rail Freight Growth Mixed in November YTD Up

US Rail Freight Growth Mixed in November YTD Up

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows that for the week ending November 1st, U.S. rail freight and intermodal traffic decreased year-over-year, but cumulative volumes for the year remain positive. Increased shipments of grain and metallic ores were observed, while coal and motor vehicle shipments declined, reflecting economic restructuring and changing market demands. Railroad companies need to pay attention to these structural shifts and proactively address the challenges they present. This data provides insights into the current economic landscape and the evolving role of rail freight.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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Fedex Expands Lastmile Delivery for Ecommerce Growth

Fedex Expands Lastmile Delivery for Ecommerce Growth

FedEx Freight Direct capitalizes on the growing e-commerce trend for large items by optimizing last-mile delivery services. Its core strategies include a customer-driven design philosophy, differentiated service options, robust operational capabilities, and a vast network. Moving forward, the company aims to expand its parcel-like experience and leverage the FedEx brand and network advantages to maintain growth momentum in a competitive market. By focusing on customer needs and operational excellence, FedEx Freight Direct is well-positioned to succeed in the evolving landscape of e-commerce logistics.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Firms Boost SOP to Strengthen Supply Chain Resilience

Firms Boost SOP to Strengthen Supply Chain Resilience

This paper explores how integrated S&OP and modeling optimization can enhance a company's ability to respond to market changes. By leveraging these strategies, businesses can improve forecasting accuracy, resource allocation, and overall supply chain agility. The study emphasizes the importance of seamless data flow and collaboration across departments to achieve optimal results. Furthermore, it highlights the role of digital tools and technologies in enabling a more responsive and resilient supply chain. Ultimately, superior S&OP is presented as a critical factor for companies seeking to succeed in the future.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Rail Freight Volumes Drop Amid Industry Shifts

US Rail Freight Volumes Drop Amid Industry Shifts

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows a year-over-year decline in U.S. rail freight volume for November, with both carload and intermodal traffic experiencing decreases. Experts attribute this downturn to factors such as the Thanksgiving holiday impact and structural challenges within the industry. The rail industry needs to proactively address these challenges, capitalize on opportunities, and innovate to compete effectively in the market and achieve sustainable growth. It must adapt to changing demands and explore new strategies to maintain its position in the transportation sector.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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CSX CN Launch Canadatonashville Intermodal Service

CSX CN Launch Canadatonashville Intermodal Service

CSX and CN are partnering to launch a new intermodal service connecting the Canadian West Coast with Nashville, aiming to provide faster, more reliable, and more sustainable rail transport solutions. CSX also recently collaborated with BNSF to expand east-west coast intermodal services. Experts highlight that the current intermodal market offers good service levels and possesses significant growth potential in the future. This expansion reflects the increasing demand for efficient and environmentally friendly transportation options within the supply chain, leveraging the benefits of rail for long-haul freight movement.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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Digital Twins Transform Supply Chains for Resilience

Digital Twins Transform Supply Chains for Resilience

This paper explores the application of Digital Twin technology in logistics management, emphasizing the importance of building a Digital Twin Organization (DTO). By creating a sandbox-style digital twin platform and constructing a control tower, companies can achieve intelligent management and optimization of their supply chains. This leads to improved operational efficiency, reduced costs, and enhanced ability to respond to market changes. Investing in digital twins is crucial for companies to win future competition. The digital twin enables real-time monitoring and simulation, allowing for proactive decision-making and improved overall supply chain resilience.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Rail Freight Volumes Drop in Late September

US Rail Freight Volumes Drop in Late September

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows a year-over-year decline in U.S. rail carloads and intermodal units in late September, but cumulative volumes remain up for the year. Grain and metallic ores bucked the trend with increased freight volume, while coal experienced the largest drop. Looking ahead, the rail freight market faces challenges from competition with trucking and the energy transition, but also holds opportunities for technological innovation and service upgrades. This suggests a complex landscape for the industry, requiring adaptation and strategic planning for future growth.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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Railroad Mergers Threaten US Supply Chains Chemical Group Warns

Railroad Mergers Threaten US Supply Chains Chemical Group Warns

Chris Jahn, President of the American Chemistry Council (ACC), provides an in-depth analysis of the potential risks associated with the proposed UP-NS railroad merger. He emphasizes the possibility of increased monopolization, diminished service quality, and negative impacts on American manufacturing. The ACC urges regulators to carefully evaluate the merger and actively promote reforms such as reciprocal switching to foster a more competitive rail transportation system and empower American manufacturing. The ACC believes a thorough review is crucial to safeguard the supply chain and ensure fair market practices.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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3PL Growth Drives Industrial Real Estate Shift Amid Ecommerce Decline

3PL Growth Drives Industrial Real Estate Shift Amid Ecommerce Decline

A recent CBRE report highlights the dominance of 3PL providers in the industrial real estate leasing market, while noting a decline in retail e-commerce demand. Businesses should capitalize on 3PL outsourcing opportunities to optimize supply chain management and embrace a more specialized and efficient approach. Active industrial real estate leasing areas include Southern California's Inland Empire, the I-78/I-81 Corridor in Pennsylvania, and the Dallas-Fort Worth region. This trend underscores the growing importance of strategic partnerships and optimized logistics networks in today's dynamic business environment.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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3PL Firms Lead US Industrial Real Estate Leasing Boom

3PL Firms Lead US Industrial Real Estate Leasing Boom

A CBRE report indicates that 3PL companies led US industrial real estate leasing in the first half of 2025, significantly outpacing retail e-commerce. The outsourcing of warehousing and supply chain operations by e-commerce businesses is a key driver behind the surge in 3PL demand. The Inland Empire region of Southern California remains the most active market for industrial property leasing. This trend highlights the increasing reliance on third-party logistics providers to manage the complexities of modern supply chains, particularly within the rapidly growing e-commerce sector.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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