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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US Rail Freight Decline Points to Economic Slowdown

US Rail Freight Decline Points to Economic Slowdown

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight and intermodal traffic declined year-over-year for the week ending February 11. Carload traffic decreased by 1.6%, while intermodal volume fell sharply by 10.2%. Year-to-date, carload traffic is up slightly by 1%, but intermodal volume is down 7.7%. While North American rail carload traffic increased, intermodal volume also saw a decline. These figures reflect the complexities of the current economic environment and the challenges facing supply chains, requiring businesses to closely monitor and adapt their strategies.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Growth Steady Despite Mixed Signals AAR

US Rail Freight Growth Steady Despite Mixed Signals AAR

The latest report from the Association of American Railroads (AAR) indicates that U.S. rail freight and intermodal volumes both decreased year-over-year for the week ending September 13th. However, rail freight maintains a steady long-term growth trend. While shipments of chemicals, automobiles, and parts increased, traditional freight categories like coal face challenges. Digital transformation, sustainability, and intermodal transportation are expected to be key trends for future development. The report suggests a mixed picture, reflecting both short-term fluctuations and long-term strategic shifts in the rail freight industry.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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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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US Rail Freight Volumes Drop in September Raising Economic Worries

US Rail Freight Volumes Drop in September Raising Economic Worries

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows that U.S. rail freight and intermodal traffic both declined year-over-year in the third week of September. Gains in grain and metallic ores were offset by decreases in coal, miscellaneous carloads, and nonmetallic minerals. Despite the recent downturn, year-to-date rail freight and intermodal traffic remain up compared to the same period last year. This suggests a mixed picture of the economy, with some sectors showing growth while others are experiencing contraction, as reflected in the varying commodity transport volumes.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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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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Amazon Sellers Gain Sales Using Free Traffic Tool

Amazon Sellers Gain Sales Using Free Traffic Tool

This article introduces the definition, advantages, display locations, application requirements, and application steps of Amazon's free traffic generation tool, Newer Model (new version association). By associating older products with new products, sellers can effectively increase new product exposure, reduce advertising costs, and improve sales. The article details how to apply for Newer Model and provides application notes to help sellers fully utilize this free traffic generation tool. It emphasizes the benefits of cross-selling and upselling using this feature on Amazon product detail pages to drive organic traffic and conversions for newly launched items.

02/04/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Global Trade Risks Rise Without Original Bills of Lading

Global Trade Risks Rise Without Original Bills of Lading

This article delves into the definition, high-risk regions, preventive measures, and response strategies related to 'Delivery without Original Bill of Lading' in international trade. It aims to help foreign trade enterprises mitigate risks, protect their rights, and avoid the predicament of losing both goods and payment. The importance of selecting appropriate trade terms, carefully choosing freight forwarders, strictly adhering to operational procedures, and purchasing export credit insurance is emphasized. Furthermore, it provides effective methods for dealing with 'Delivery without Original Bill of Lading' incidents after they occur.

08/22/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Guide to Ethiopian SWIFT Codes for International Transfers

Guide to Ethiopian SWIFT Codes for International Transfers

This article provides a comprehensive guide to SWIFT/BIC codes in Ethiopia, covering the definition, importance, and methods for finding SWIFT/BIC codes. It also explains the difference between SWIFT/BIC codes and IBANs, the consequences of using incorrect codes, and methods for verifying code validity. Furthermore, it compares the advantages and disadvantages of traditional banks versus emerging cross-border payment platforms, offering readers superior solutions for international money transfers. The guide aims to simplify cross-border payments to and from Ethiopia by providing clear and practical information.

09/02/2025 International Settlement
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Maersk Launches Online Bill of Lading Tracking for Cargo Efficiency

Maersk Launches Online Bill of Lading Tracking for Cargo Efficiency

This article provides a detailed guide on using Maersk's online Bill of Lading (B/L) tracking feature. It helps users understand how to track B/L status, check prepaid/collect freight payment information, and utilize the D/O-less mode to streamline cargo release. The guide focuses on explaining the tracking steps, status meanings, and offers frequently asked questions. The aim is to improve user experience and work efficiency by providing clear instructions and solutions for common issues related to Maersk's B/L tracking and D/O-less processes.

09/28/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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