US Rail Freight Shows Early 2025 Growth Amid Challenges

US Rail Freight Shows Early 2025 Growth Amid Challenges

The Association of American Railroads reported a year-over-year decrease in U.S. rail freight and intermodal traffic for the week ending September 20th, but year-to-date volumes remain up. Coal carloads experienced the largest decline, while grain and metallic ores saw increases. Railroad operators need to improve operational efficiency, expand service offerings, and focus on sustainability to address challenges and capitalize on opportunities in the evolving freight landscape. The report highlights the ongoing shifts and pressures within the rail freight sector and its broader impact on the supply chain.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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Freight Market Faces September Volatility As Rates Climb

Freight Market Faces September Volatility As Rates Climb

The freight market in September presented a complex situation with declining transaction volume but slightly increased freight rates. The report indicates a decrease in transaction volume for dry van and refrigerated trucks, with a slight increase for flatbeds. Spot freight rates saw a small increase, while contract freight rates fluctuated. Analysts believe the rate increase is not demand-driven but due to freight imbalances and capacity changes, requiring vigilance regarding market risks. It's recommended to closely monitor market dynamics, optimize route planning, improve operational efficiency, flexibly adjust pricing strategies, and embrace change.

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

3PL Firms Lead Industrial Real Estate Leasing Growth

A CBRE report indicates that 3PL leasing dominated the US industrial real estate market in the first half of 2025, surpassing retail and e-commerce. Increased demand for corporate outsourcing and e-commerce companies reassessing their operational models are key drivers. While large warehouse leasing is approached cautiously, the Inland Empire in Southern California remains the most active market. Experts predict that 3PL's market share will continue to rise, and businesses should embrace 3PL to enhance their competitiveness. This trend highlights the growing importance of logistics outsourcing in the current economic landscape.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Amazon FBA Sellers Turn to Air Freight for Faster Shipping

Amazon FBA Sellers Turn to Air Freight for Faster Shipping

This article provides an in-depth analysis of the operational processes and cost structure of international air freight for FBA first leg, offering a detailed guide for Amazon sellers. It covers key steps including power of attorney signing, cargo preparation, booking, customs declaration, customs clearance, and delivery. The article also breaks down various cost components such as air freight charges, customs declaration fees, and customs clearance fees, helping sellers achieve efficient warehouse entry and reduce overall costs. This guide aims to optimize the FBA first leg process via air freight.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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Infrastructure Bill Poses Opportunities Challenges for Logistics Firms

Infrastructure Bill Poses Opportunities Challenges for Logistics Firms

The US federal surface transportation authorization act is drawing significant attention. Experts are optimistic about bipartisan cooperation in passing the new bill, but also point out challenges related to evolving infrastructure definitions and funding sources. Logistics companies need to closely monitor policy trends, embrace sustainable development, improve operational efficiency, and strengthen industry collaboration to seize opportunities. Key areas of focus include understanding the bill's specific provisions, adapting to new regulations, and leveraging infrastructure investments to optimize supply chains. Proactive engagement will be crucial for success in the evolving landscape.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Major Retailers Accelerate Supply Chain Automation

Major Retailers Accelerate Supply Chain Automation

Retail giants are increasingly investing in logistics automation, leveraging technologies like AI, IoT, and robotics to reshape their supply chains. Walmart uses IoT sensors to track inventory, Amazon is testing multi-arm robots and smart glasses, and UNFI employs Pick-it-Easy robots to improve order accuracy. These initiatives aim to enhance operational efficiency, reduce costs, improve working conditions for employees, and ultimately, elevate the customer experience. This push towards automation reflects a broader trend of optimizing supply chains for speed, accuracy, and resilience in a competitive retail landscape.

02/04/2026 Warehousing
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North American Ports Struggle Amid Pandemic Fitch

North American Ports Struggle Amid Pandemic Fitch

A Fitch Ratings report highlights the widespread impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on North American ports, causing supply chain disruptions and operational restrictions. Ports faced pressure from both demand and supply sides, with varying degrees of impact across different port types. The pandemic has exposed vulnerabilities, but also accelerated trends like automation and digitalization. While short-term challenges persist, economic recovery and port transformation offer long-term opportunities for growth and resilience. Ports are adapting to the new normal by diversifying cargo, investing in infrastructure, and improving efficiency.

02/05/2026 Port Encyclopedia
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Shopee Seller Registration Hurdles Local Store Guide

Shopee Seller Registration Hurdles Local Store Guide

This article delves into common issues encountered during Shopee registration review, providing solutions and unveiling the advantages and operational techniques of Shopee local stores. For sellers who repeatedly fail to register cross-border stores, a local store is a viable alternative to consider. It explores the reasons behind registration failures and offers practical advice on avoiding pitfalls. Understanding the benefits of a local store, such as lower shipping costs and faster delivery times, can significantly improve a seller's success on the Shopee platform. This guide helps navigate the complexities of Shopee's registration process.

02/05/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Crossborder Ecommerce Boosts Efficiency with DDP Model

Crossborder Ecommerce Boosts Efficiency with DDP Model

This article delves into the significance of DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) suppliers in cross-border e-commerce. It details the admission criteria, cost structure, logistics solutions, compliance risk control, and operational practices of DDP suppliers. By comparing different logistics models, the importance of compliant operations is emphasized. The article also provides solutions to common problems, aiming to help sellers efficiently implement the DDP model and enhance their competitiveness in cross-border e-commerce. It offers practical guidance for navigating the complexities of DDP shipping and ensuring smooth, compliant operations.

02/05/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Split Bills of Lading Pose Risks in Global Trade

Split Bills of Lading Pose Risks in Global Trade

This article provides a detailed interpretation of the operational process, policy highlights in various countries, and risk control measures for split bills of lading in international trade. Through a six-step operation method, policy analysis of different countries, and practical cases, it offers a comprehensive guide for foreign trade enterprises. The aim is to help companies avoid risks, improve logistics efficiency, and achieve smooth flow of goods and matching of documents in cross-border trade. This guide serves as a practical resource for optimizing international logistics and ensuring compliance.

02/05/2026 Document Interpretation
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