Standard Motor Products Expands Supply Chain with Kansas Hub

Standard Motor Products Expands Supply Chain with Kansas Hub

SMP has launched an automated distribution center in Kansas, optimizing its supply chain to reduce costs, accelerate delivery, and improve customer responsiveness. The company is closing an older facility but retaining its employees. This move is expected to streamline operations and enhance efficiency in the automotive parts supply chain, particularly in logistics and distribution, allowing for faster and more reliable delivery of components to customers. The automation should significantly contribute to overall supply chain optimization.

01/08/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Decline Signals Economic Concerns

US Rail Freight Decline Signals Economic Concerns

For the week ending August 12, U.S. rail freight and intermodal volumes both declined. Carloads of motor vehicles & parts and petroleum products increased, while grain, chemicals, and forest products decreased. Year-to-date freight volume saw a slight increase, but intermodal volume experienced a significant drop. Businesses need to assess the situation and adjust their operating strategies accordingly. The decline in intermodal volume is a notable trend impacting the overall freight landscape.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Sees Carload Rise Intermodal Dip in March

US Rail Freight Sees Carload Rise Intermodal Dip in March

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail carload traffic increased by 2.8% for the week ending March 5th, while intermodal traffic decreased by 5.8% year-over-year. Performance varied across commodity categories, with declines in carloads of motor vehicles and parts, grain, and petroleum and petroleum products. Overall, the U.S. rail freight industry faces a mix of challenges and opportunities. Factors such as macroeconomic conditions, supply chains, and energy policies warrant close attention.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Container Gains Offset Cargo Declines in September 2020

US Rail Freight Container Gains Offset Cargo Declines in September 2020

U.S. rail freight data for the first week of September 2020 shows strong container traffic, up 24.8% year-over-year. Traditional carload traffic declined by 6.9% compared to the same period last year. The decline was mainly due to decreased shipments of coal, nonmetallic minerals, and metallic ores, while grain, and motor vehicles & parts saw increases. Year-to-date figures indicate declines in both carload and container traffic, reflecting the ongoing impact of the pandemic.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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Callnovo Wins FP Praise for Resilient Customer Service

Callnovo Wins FP Praise for Resilient Customer Service

Global construction machinery parts expert FP praises Callnovo's customer service execution. Under high pressure, Callnovo ensures stable and orderly service by carefully selecting talent, optimizing operations, and improving contingency plans, earning customer trust and demonstrating excellent customer service capabilities. This proactive approach allows Callnovo to maintain service levels even during peak demand, solidifying their reputation for reliability and responsiveness. Their commitment to operational excellence translates into consistent and dependable support for FP.

02/03/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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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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Toyota Enhances Forklift Service with Fourpillar Support System

Toyota Enhances Forklift Service with Fourpillar Support System

Toyota Material Handling introduces the "360° Support" program, promising a four-hour rapid response to maintenance requests. Toyota-certified technicians will perform repairs using genuine parts, backed by comprehensive warranty plans. This initiative aims to provide customers with complete support from purchase to long-term use, ensuring efficient forklift operation and contributing to their business success. The program emphasizes minimizing downtime and maximizing productivity through reliable service and readily available, high-quality components.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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