Retail Growth Stalls in August As Consumer Spending Slows

Retail Growth Stalls in August As Consumer Spending Slows

August retail sales remained largely unchanged from July, indicating stalled consumer spending, according to data from the U.S. Department of Commerce and NRF. Factors contributing to this stagnation include an uncertain economic outlook, high unemployment, and increased spending on essential goods. Experts suggest that consumer spending alone cannot guarantee economic recovery. Transformation and innovation are crucial for the retail industry, emphasizing online-offline integration, personalized services, experiential consumption, and supply chain optimization.

US Rail Freight Rebound Hints at Economic Growth

US Rail Freight Rebound Hints at Economic Growth

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight and intermodal volumes both increased year-over-year for the week ending April 26. Rail freight volume rose by 9.0%, primarily driven by increased shipments of coal, grain, and chemicals. Intermodal volume grew by 2.6%. Year-to-date figures show a 1.5% increase in rail freight volume and an 8.0% increase in intermodal volume, suggesting a steady recovery in the rail freight market.

02/03/2026 Logistics
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North American Class 8 Truck Orders Drop Sharply Amid Demand Slowdown

North American Class 8 Truck Orders Drop Sharply Amid Demand Slowdown

North American Class 8 truck orders experienced a significant decline in November, raising concerns about demand exhaustion and a potential market inflection point. The report analyzes the reasons behind the order decrease, including early release of demand, economic environment, freight rates, policies and regulations, and technological changes. Despite these challenges, the US economic recovery and growing freight demand continue to provide support for the market. Close attention should be paid to future market dynamics.

02/03/2026 Logistics
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North American Class 8 Truck Orders Surge in February

North American Class 8 Truck Orders Surge in February

North American Class 8 truck orders defied expectations in February, showing unexpected growth. Both FTR and ACT Research reported significant year-over-year increases. Experts attribute this to replacement demand, emissions regulations, technological innovation, and anticipated economic recovery. The market appears robust in the short term, but freight rates, interest rates, and geopolitical risks warrant attention. Manufacturers should focus on innovation, while carriers should adopt flexible strategies to navigate the evolving landscape.

02/03/2026 Logistics
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Global Air Travel Nears Prepandemic Levels in October

Global Air Travel Nears Prepandemic Levels in October

IATA reports that global air passenger traffic continued its recovery in October, nearing pre-pandemic levels. Domestic markets have surpassed pre-pandemic figures, while international markets are also recovering. The Asia-Pacific region lags behind due to pandemic restrictions, trade, and geopolitical influences. Market performance varies significantly across regions, with limited impact from the Israel-Hamas conflict. The aviation industry should maintain cautious optimism and prepare for various challenges in the future.

US Rail Freight Rebounds on Auto Intermodal Growth

US Rail Freight Rebounds on Auto Intermodal Growth

Data from the Association of American Railroads indicates a recovery in total U.S. rail freight traffic for the week ending October 26th. Automobiles & parts and intermodal transportation showed strong performance, while coal shipments remained weak. In the first 43 weeks of 2024, intermodal volume increased by 8.9%, while traditional carload categories faced downward pressure. The rail freight market is undergoing structural adjustments, highlighting the shift in demand and the increasing importance of intermodal solutions.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Rises in Early August on Carload Intermodal Growth

US Rail Freight Rises in Early August on Carload Intermodal Growth

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight continued to grow in the week ending August 9th, with carload traffic up 2.4% year-over-year and intermodal traffic up 3.4%. Year-to-date figures show a 2.8% increase in total carloads and a 4.6% increase in total intermodal volume. This growth in rail freight reflects the overall economic recovery in the United States. However, the industry faces challenges related to infrastructure and competition.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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Prologis Report Hints at Logistics Real Estate Shift

Prologis Report Hints at Logistics Real Estate Shift

The Prologis IBI report indicates a turning point in logistics real estate demand, with net absorption, new lease signings, and project pipelines all exceeding the 2024 average. E-commerce and large enterprises are leading the market recovery. Companies are adopting more cautious inventory strategies, resulting in stable vacancy rates but a slowdown in new construction. Market participants need to seize opportunities, address challenges, and flexibly adjust their strategies to navigate the evolving landscape.

China Calls for Political Reconciliation in Haiti Crisis

China Calls for Political Reconciliation in Haiti Crisis

China, at the United Nations, urged accelerating political reconciliation and reconstruction in Haiti, emphasizing that forming a legitimate government is crucial. China called on all parties to unite, cut off illegal arms flows, and stressed that international support must respect Haitian sovereignty. Ultimately, resolving the Haitian crisis lies with the Haitian people themselves. China believes that a Haitian-led solution is the only viable path forward and pledged continued support for the nation's recovery.

Guide to Managing Cargo Damage Claims in Ocean Freight

Guide to Managing Cargo Damage Claims in Ocean Freight

This article details the claim process for damaged or lost cargo in marine transportation. It covers claim route selection, essential document checklists, standard claim procedures, and important considerations. The aim is to assist importers and exporters in efficiently and reasonably pursuing claims to maximize loss recovery. It provides practical guidance on navigating the complexities of marine insurance and claim settlement, empowering businesses to protect their interests when faced with cargo discrepancies during international shipping.