US Rail Freight Mixed Grain Metals Up Autos Intermodal Down

US Rail Freight Mixed Grain Metals Up Autos Intermodal Down

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight volume saw a slight year-over-year decrease in early November. However, grain and metals shipments bucked the trend, showing growth, while coal and automotive transport declined. Intermodal business also faced challenges. Year-to-date figures still indicate overall growth. Railroad companies need to adapt to market changes and focus on key factors such as economic growth, energy policies, supply chain management, technological innovation, and infrastructure investment to maintain a competitive edge.

02/04/2026 Logistics
Read More
US Rail Freight Sees Mixed Results Carloads Up Intermodal Down

US Rail Freight Sees Mixed Results Carloads Up Intermodal Down

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail carload traffic for the week ending November 29th increased by 4.3% year-over-year, while intermodal volume decreased by 6.5% year-over-year. Year-to-date figures show slight growth in both carload and intermodal traffic. Businesses should closely monitor market dynamics, optimize transportation combinations, strengthen supply chain collaboration, and leverage technology to improve efficiency and reduce costs to navigate market changes.

02/04/2026 Logistics
Read More
US Rail Freight Sees Mixed Results Carloads Up Intermodal Down

US Rail Freight Sees Mixed Results Carloads Up Intermodal Down

For the week ending November 8, 2025, US rail freight presented a mixed picture: carload traffic saw a slight increase, while intermodal traffic declined. Year-to-date figures indicate overall growth, but future development faces both opportunities and challenges. These are influenced by various factors including the macroeconomic environment, industry structure, and global trade. The fluctuations highlight the sensitivity of rail freight to broader economic trends and the ongoing evolution of supply chain dynamics. Further analysis is needed to understand the underlying drivers and predict future performance.

02/04/2026 Logistics
Read More
Trucking Market Slump Threatens Brokers As Spot Rates Inch Up

Trucking Market Slump Threatens Brokers As Spot Rates Inch Up

DAT reports a decline in both volume and rates in the US truckload spot market for October, suggesting a weak peak season. Factors like soft demand and policy impacts contribute to market uncertainty. Analysts predict further challenges in 2025, potentially leading to broker bankruptcies. Trucking companies and freight brokers should closely monitor market trends and adapt their business strategies accordingly. The current market conditions present a complex landscape requiring careful navigation to mitigate potential risks and capitalize on emerging opportunities.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
Temu Sellers Grapple With Higher Fees Seek Costcutting Measures

Temu Sellers Grapple With Higher Fees Seek Costcutting Measures

This article delves into Temu's TRO (Total Refund Offer) fees, highlighting their impact on cross-border e-commerce seller profitability. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the fee structure and suggests strategies for mitigating TRO expenses. Sellers should focus on optimizing product quality, logistics, and after-sales service to reduce return rates. By effectively controlling TRO fee expenditures, sellers can achieve sustainable growth on the Temu platform.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Guide to Patent Applications Protecting Innovations Efficiently

Guide to Patent Applications Protecting Innovations Efficiently

This article provides a detailed interpretation of various aspects of patent applications, including patent types, application procedures, fee structures, fee reduction policies, agency fees, and application duration. It aims to help innovators understand the importance of patents, master application techniques, and ultimately better protect their innovative achievements and enhance market competitiveness. The guide covers key considerations for navigating the patent process and maximizing the benefits of intellectual property protection.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Apple Allows Thirdparty Payments Downloads in Brazil

Apple Allows Thirdparty Payments Downloads in Brazil

Brazilian regulators have compelled Apple to adjust its App Store policies, permitting third-party app stores and external payment methods. Apple will levy a 15% fee on external payment links and a 5% technology service fee on apps distributed through third-party stores. This move is expected to offer Brazilian users a more flexible and potentially lower-cost app consumption experience, while also granting developers greater autonomy and control over their distribution and monetization strategies.

01/15/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Shopee Introduces Seller Fees in Southeast Asia

Shopee Introduces Seller Fees in Southeast Asia

Shopee announced a 5% technology service fee for sellers in Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam, effective February 2026, to cover platform operating costs. To mitigate the impact, Shopee will provide advertising credit subsidies. This move may prompt sellers to re-evaluate their operating costs and adjust their business strategies accordingly. The introduction of the fee represents a change in Shopee's pricing structure and could influence seller behavior within the cross-border e-commerce landscape.

01/15/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
Shanghai Port Adopts Paperless Customs to Speed Up Southeast Asia Trade

Shanghai Port Adopts Paperless Customs to Speed Up Southeast Asia Trade

User s4345479 on Ji Yun Bao Dian (a freight forwarding platform) highlights issues regarding paperless customs clearance at Shanghai Port and the issuance time of Southeast Asia Bills of Lading, drawing industry attention. The article covers various aspects including customs declaration, bills of lading, chemical identification, and port operations, reflecting common challenges faced by freight forwarders. It underscores the importance of industry communication and knowledge sharing to address these practical problems and improve operational efficiency within the freight forwarding sector.

08/21/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
Read More
WCO JICA Team Up to Upgrade Customs Systems in Developing Countries

WCO JICA Team Up to Upgrade Customs Systems in Developing Countries

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) signed a Memorandum of Cooperation in 2015. This collaboration aims to improve customs administration in developing countries and promote economic development through capacity building, customs modernization, and trade facilitation. Both parties will deepen cooperation, innovate approaches, and jointly address new global trade dynamics. The goal is to build a more open, inclusive, and mutually beneficial global trade landscape.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More