US Rail Freight Automotive Grain Up As Intermodal Lags

US Rail Freight Automotive Grain Up As Intermodal Lags

The Association of American Railroads (AAR) reported a mixed performance in U.S. rail freight for the week ending March 21. Traditional carload traffic saw a slight year-over-year decrease, but grain and automotive shipments performed strongly. Intermodal volume, however, bucked the trend and increased. Year-to-date figures show a small increase in carload volume, while intermodal volume experienced a slight decline. The U.S. rail freight market is undergoing a transformation and upgrade, requiring proactive responses to challenges and the seizing of opportunities.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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US Port Strike Threatens Retailers Amid Surging Imports

US Port Strike Threatens Retailers Amid Surging Imports

U.S. import volume is projected to remain high due to concerns about potential strikes at East Coast and Gulf Coast ports. Retailers are front-loading shipments and diverting to alternative ports. A genuine negotiation between labor and management is crucial to avoid disruptions. A strike would negatively impact the supply chain and the economy. July imports increased by 21% year-over-year, and August is expected to reach its highest level since May 2022. Full-year import volume is projected to grow by 12.3%.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Intermodal Volumes Rebound As Domestic Containers Grow

US Intermodal Volumes Rebound As Domestic Containers Grow

US multimodal freight volume decreased by 4.0% year-over-year in September 2023, although the decline narrowed, with domestic container shipments increasing by 5.0%. Full-year cumulative data still indicates pressure due to economic slowdown, high inventory levels, and increased competition. Experts suggest the market remains weak with a muted peak season. Recommendations for businesses include focusing on the domestic market, optimizing operations, strengthening customer relationships, embracing technological innovation, and seizing opportunities to overcome challenges. The overall market remains soft and requires strategic adjustments.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Intermodal Decline Eases in September Signaling Possible Rebound

US Intermodal Decline Eases in September Signaling Possible Rebound

U.S. intermodal volume decreased by 4.0% year-over-year in September 2023, though the decline narrowed, with domestic container shipments showing growth. Economic weakness, high inventories, and truck competition are key challenges. The Intermodal Association of North America anticipates improvement in the second half of the year, but experts believe intense market competition makes recovery challenging. Intermodal transportation needs to enhance services, optimize networks, strengthen technology applications, and deepen cooperation to address challenges and seize opportunities. The market remains competitive, and the path to recovery is uncertain.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Mixed Postthanksgiving Intermodal Gains

US Rail Freight Mixed Postthanksgiving Intermodal Gains

U.S. rail freight traffic showed mixed results. Carload traffic declined, while shipments of commodities like petroleum increased. Intermodal traffic saw a rise. Year-to-date, carload traffic experienced a slight increase, while intermodal traffic decreased overall. The Thanksgiving holiday period likely influenced these fluctuations in freight volume.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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Chinesecuban Music Fusion Celebrates Cultural Ties in Havana

Chinesecuban Music Fusion Celebrates Cultural Ties in Havana

The "Happy Chinese New Year: Magnificent Sounds" concert was successfully held in Havana. The Dunhuang Ancient Music Orchestra and Cuban musicians jointly performed, promoting cultural exchange and friendship between the two countries through a fusion of Chinese and Western instruments. During their visit, the orchestra also held lectures and academic exchange activities. The concert showcased the beauty of traditional Chinese music while fostering deeper understanding and appreciation between the Chinese and Cuban people. It served as a vibrant celebration of cultural diversity and a testament to the enduring bond between the two nations.

02/05/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Bill of Lading Confirmation: A Critical Step in Ocean Freight Export Procedures

Bill of Lading Confirmation: A Critical Step in Ocean Freight Export Procedures

Ocean bill of lading confirmation is a critical legal procedure in export shipments, requiring strict adherence to timelines by shippers. Carriers typically mandate BL details (consignee/shipper/container info) be confirmed 4-5 days pre-sailing. Unconfirmed data by deadlines requires immediate container number designation to prevent shipping disruptions. Timely and accurate BL confirmation ensures smooth maritime operations.

07/16/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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CMA CGM Adds Peak Season Surcharge on Nordicus Shipments

CMA CGM Adds Peak Season Surcharge on Nordicus Shipments

CMA CGM Group has announced a peak season surcharge on cargo transported from Northern Europe to the United States. The fee is set at $150 for a 20-foot container, and $300 for both 40-foot and 45-foot containers. Additionally, the charges vary depending on the type of container, prompting cargo owners to stay vigilant regarding these changes.

08/04/2025 Logistics
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Guide to Optimizing CFS Cutoff Times for LCL Shipments

Guide to Optimizing CFS Cutoff Times for LCL Shipments

This article provides an in-depth analysis of the CFS cut-off concept, its importance, and its impact on LCL freight. It also offers practical advice on how to manage CFS cut-off deadlines effectively. Understanding the CFS cut-off is crucial for ensuring timely shipment of LCL cargo and reducing transportation costs. Mastering this deadline is key to efficient and cost-effective LCL shipping operations.

11/03/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Cargo Storage and Loading Operations Guide for Consolidated Shipments

Cargo Storage and Loading Operations Guide for Consolidated Shipments

This article outlines a series of operational procedures that should be followed during the storage and loading process of LCL (Less than Container Load) cargo. It includes guidelines for handling damaged packaging, requirements for stacking goods, and considerations for ensuring transportation safety. Through refined management and standardized operations, the safety of LCL cargo transportation can be effectively guaranteed, reducing losses and risks.

07/15/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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