US Rail Freight Growth Mixed As Carload Gains Offset Intermodal Losses

US Rail Freight Growth Mixed As Carload Gains Offset Intermodal Losses

The US rail freight market in September 2021 saw a mixed performance with increased carload traffic but a decline in intermodal volume. Carload shipments of coal and metallic ores showed significant growth, while automobiles & parts and grain decreased. Cumulative data for the year remained strong. Key factors for future development include digital transformation, infrastructure development, expansion of service offerings, and a focus on sustainability. These strategies are crucial for adapting to evolving market demands and ensuring the long-term viability of the rail freight industry.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Faces Midyear Challenges and Opportunities

US Rail Freight Faces Midyear Challenges and Opportunities

US rail freight traffic declined in June, with carloads down 3.6% and intermodal units down 4.4%. Automobiles saw gains, while commodities like grain decreased. Year-to-date, carloads are flat, but intermodal traffic is down 6.4%. This indicates a continued slowdown in intermodal transport compared to traditional carload freight, reflecting potential shifts in supply chains and economic activity within the US.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Demand Fluctuates Amid Economic Uncertainty

US Rail Freight Demand Fluctuates Amid Economic Uncertainty

Data from the Association of American Railroads reveals a mixed picture for US rail freight for the week ending July 23rd. Carload traffic saw a slight increase, while intermodal traffic declined year-over-year. Year-to-date figures reflect a similar trend. Overall North American rail freight also faces challenges. Moving forward, rail freight needs to navigate economic downturns and supply chain bottlenecks while capitalizing on opportunities presented by infrastructure investments and the growing emphasis on green initiatives. The industry's performance reflects broader economic trends and the evolving landscape of freight transportation.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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East Coast Ports Gain As Supply Chains Diversify From West Coast

East Coast Ports Gain As Supply Chains Diversify From West Coast

Persistent congestion at the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach is driving importers to shift to East Coast ports, leading to a significant increase in throughput. However, East Coast ports are also facing congestion and rising freight rates. Businesses need to enhance supply chain resilience through risk assessment, cost analysis, diversification strategies, and technology adoption to navigate the evolving market environment. This proactive approach is crucial for mitigating disruptions and maintaining operational efficiency amidst ongoing supply chain challenges.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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West Coast Ports Resume Labor Talks to Prevent Congestion

West Coast Ports Resume Labor Talks to Prevent Congestion

The International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) and the Pacific Maritime Association (PMA) are scheduled to resume negotiations to proactively address contract extensions and prevent future freight congestion at West Coast ports. These talks are critical to global trade stability. Key negotiation points are expected to include wages and benefits, automation, job security, and contract duration. The outcome will directly impact shippers' supply chain efficiency and costs, making a timely agreement essential to avoid disruptions.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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Shanghaius Ocean Freight Costs and Routes Analyzed

Shanghaius Ocean Freight Costs and Routes Analyzed

This article provides a detailed guide to ocean freight from Shanghai to the United States. It covers major ports in Shanghai and the US, the two main routes (West Coast and East Coast), different vessel types, and freight cost calculation. It also offers important considerations for the ocean freight process, aiming to help readers navigate Shanghai-US shipping more effectively. The guide includes practical tips and information to facilitate a smoother and more informed shipping experience.

01/26/2026 Logistics
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Walmart Upgrades Fresh Food Logistics As Ports Adapt to Trade Changes

Walmart Upgrades Fresh Food Logistics As Ports Adapt to Trade Changes

Walmart is accelerating its investment in high-tech fresh produce distribution centers to optimize cold chain logistics. Meanwhile, US ports are demonstrating strong resilience in the face of reshaping trade patterns through investments in infrastructure, data utilization, and inland transportation networks. These developments highlight the growing importance of high-tech solutions and data-driven approaches in modern supply chain management, enabling greater efficiency and adaptability in the face of evolving challenges and opportunities.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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Tianjinpoland Shipping Optimized Via Sea and Air Routes

Tianjinpoland Shipping Optimized Via Sea and Air Routes

For shipping from Tianjin to Poland, sea freight avoids the Bering Strait, typically opting for the Suez Canal or Panama Canal routes. If time is of the essence, air freight offers a direct flight of only 11 hours. The choice between these options depends on factors such as time sensitivity, cost considerations, and the type of goods being transported, ultimately aiming to achieve the optimal transportation solution. The best method depends on balancing speed, expense, and the nature of the cargo.

01/26/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Vietnam Intensifies Ecommerce Fraud Crackdown Amid Rising Trade

Vietnam Intensifies Ecommerce Fraud Crackdown Amid Rising Trade

Vietnam strengthens e-commerce regulation to combat fraud. The throughput of Fuzhou and Wenzhou ports exceeds 100 million tons. China guides the cross-border layout of industrial chains. Shopee Malaysia adjusts commissions, and TikTok Shop rises in the Vietnamese e-commerce market, intensifying competition. A new landscape of cross-border e-commerce is rapidly evolving. These developments highlight the dynamic nature of the sector, influenced by regulatory changes, infrastructure growth, and the emergence of new players and strategies. This evolving landscape presents both opportunities and challenges for businesses operating in the cross-border e-commerce space.

01/30/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Ocean Freight Key Ports Costs and Transit Times Explained

US Ocean Freight Key Ports Costs and Transit Times Explained

This article provides an in-depth analysis of the advantages and characteristics of major US East and West Coast ports. It compares the differences in ocean freight costs and transit times between Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle, New York, and Savannah. The article also details various factors influencing US ocean freight transit times and answers common shipping questions. The aim is to provide cross-border e-commerce businesses and consumers with a more informed reference for making smarter ocean freight choices.

02/02/2026 Logistics
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