US Rail Freight and Intermodal Volumes Increase Despite Economic Challenges

US Rail Freight and Intermodal Volumes Increase Despite Economic Challenges

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight and intermodal volume increased year-over-year for the week ending March 20, but growth slowed. Freight volume performance varied across commodities, while intermodal was constrained by port congestion. Cumulative data presents a mixed picture, and the full-year trend remains to be seen. The rail transport industry faces challenges such as aging infrastructure and labor shortages, but also opportunities from economic recovery and environmental policies. Overall performance needs further observation.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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US Import Surge Strains Supply Chains Ahead of Holidays

US Import Surge Strains Supply Chains Ahead of Holidays

Panjiva data indicates strong US imports continued in February, but port congestion, stimulus policies, and holiday season demand create uncertainty. Retailers need to monitor market dynamics, adapt flexibly, address supply chain challenges, and seize opportunities. The sustained import strength is tempered by ongoing logistical bottlenecks and economic factors that could impact future performance. Companies must remain vigilant and proactive to navigate the evolving landscape and maintain a competitive edge in the market. Understanding these complexities is crucial for effective planning and decision-making.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Container Imports Jump in September Amid Strong Consumer Spending

US Container Imports Jump in September Amid Strong Consumer Spending

S&P Global Market Intelligence data shows U.S. container freight volume increased 13.4% year-over-year in September, marking the 13th consecutive month of growth, primarily driven by strong consumer goods demand. Durable consumer goods and leisure products showed particularly strong performance, while capital goods grew at a slower pace. Analysts anticipate 2024 will outperform 2023, highlighting the impact of port labor issues and automation processes on future growth. The continued strength in consumer spending is a key factor in the positive outlook.

01/22/2026 Logistics
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Apple to Integrate Googles Gemini AI Into Siri

Apple to Integrate Googles Gemini AI Into Siri

Apple and Google's AI assistant collaboration intensifies the battle for information entry points. In China, domestic manufacturers primarily focus on self-developed solutions, posing challenges for model service providers. This competition for entry points represents a power struggle over information organization and behavioral intervention. The control over how users access and interact with information is at stake, making it a crucial area of competition in the evolving AI landscape. The ability to guide user behavior through these entry points is a significant advantage.

01/27/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Hazardous Ink Export Guidelines Emphasize Safe Shipping Practices

Hazardous Ink Export Guidelines Emphasize Safe Shipping Practices

This article provides a detailed interpretation of the requirements for sea freight export of 3 types of dangerous goods inks, focusing on the different operating procedures at Shanghai Yangshan Port and Waigaoqiao Port. It emphasizes the importance of flash point and key aspects such as direct loading alongside the vessel and dangerous goods warehouse transfer. The aim is to help foreign trade enterprises avoid risks and achieve efficient customs clearance. This guide offers practical advice for navigating the complexities of ink export, ensuring compliance and smooth operations.

05/28/2024 Logistics Encyclopedia
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New Guide Simplifies Compliant Export of Batterypowered Products

New Guide Simplifies Compliant Export of Batterypowered Products

This article addresses common challenges faced when exporting battery-containing products like drones, electric wheelchairs, and power banks via sea freight. These challenges include unclear documentation requirements, dangerous goods declaration, and varying destination port regulations. It offers practical advice such as clearly defining product types, consulting with specialized agencies, preparing complete documentation, understanding destination port requirements, and staying updated on regulatory changes. The aim is to assist businesses in successfully navigating the export process and ensuring compliance with relevant regulations for smooth and efficient shipments.

08/22/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Flex Hub Lite Eases Cargo Transit Amid Global Disruptions

Flex Hub Lite Eases Cargo Transit Amid Global Disruptions

Flex Hub Lite offers flexible transshipment storage options, but their use isn't mandatory. Due to exceptional circumstances in European ports, new applications for the European hub are suspended. Storage fees are typically waived for undeliverable goods to Russia and Ukraine, but transfers to nearby ports may occur due to port congestion. Shippers should plan ahead, maintain communication, flexibly select solutions, and monitor policy changes. The service aims to mitigate disruptions caused by port congestion and geopolitical factors, providing alternatives for cargo management and storage.

09/28/2025 Logistics
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Ocean Freight Costs Unpacking Terminal Fees and Hidden Charges

Ocean Freight Costs Unpacking Terminal Fees and Hidden Charges

This article provides an in-depth analysis of terminal handling charges and other hidden costs in international sea freight. It details the composition and influencing factors of various fees, including port charges, port congestion fees, customs clearance fees, and warehousing fees. The aim is to help cargo owners understand the complete picture of sea freight costs, effectively control expenses, avoid unnecessary expenditures, and gain a proactive advantage in international trade. By understanding these fees, shippers can better manage their logistics budget and negotiate favorable terms.

09/26/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Experts Advise on Selecting Optimal International Shipping Methods

Experts Advise on Selecting Optimal International Shipping Methods

Choosing the right international shipping channel requires careful consideration of cargo characteristics, transit time, cost, and destination port conditions. This article provides professional analysis and recommendations from multiple dimensions, including cargo volume, weight, nature of goods, urgency, shipping schedule, cost structure, port facilities, and customs clearance requirements. It helps companies optimize shipping solutions and reduce logistics costs by providing guidance on selecting the most suitable sea freight options based on their specific needs and priorities, ultimately leading to more efficient and cost-effective international trade.

11/03/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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