US Rail Freight Surge Points to Economic Recovery

US Rail Freight Surge Points to Economic Recovery

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows that U.S. rail freight and intermodal volumes both increased year-over-year for the week ending July 24th. Significant growth was seen in the transportation of coal and metallic ores, while volumes of motor vehicles & parts and farm products declined. The substantial increase in cumulative freight volume over the first 29 weeks of 2021 indicates that rail transportation is playing a vital role in the U.S. economic recovery. Total carloads and intermodal units reflect a positive trend in freight activity.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Sees Mixed Results Carloads Up Intermodal Down

US Rail Freight Sees Mixed Results Carloads Up Intermodal Down

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows that U.S. rail carload traffic increased year-over-year in the first week of March, led by chemicals, minerals, and coal. Intermodal traffic declined, reflecting ongoing supply chain bottlenecks. Cumulative data indicates an increase in carload traffic but a decrease in intermodal volume. Overall, North American rail performance mirrors the U.S. trends. Logistics companies should monitor market dynamics, optimize supply chains, and invest in technological innovation to address these challenges. The divergence between carload and intermodal trends highlights the need for adaptable strategies.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Sees Mixed Results Carloads Rise Intermodal Falls

US Rail Freight Sees Mixed Results Carloads Rise Intermodal Falls

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail carloads increased by 2.9% year-over-year for the week ending August 20th, driven primarily by coal and grain shipments. However, intermodal traffic decreased by 2.4% year-over-year, with a year-to-date decline of 5.5%. While overall North American rail freight volume saw a slight increase, intermodal transportation also faced a decline. This divergence in the rail freight market reflects the complexity of the economic situation, highlighting the need for improved efficiency and collaboration to address future challenges.

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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US Rail Freight Decline Signals Economic Worries

US Rail Freight Decline Signals Economic Worries

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows that U.S. rail freight and intermodal volumes declined year-over-year in the first week of August. While some commodity categories saw increased freight volumes, they couldn't offset the overall downward trend. Intermodal transportation continues to be weak, with a significant cumulative decline throughout the year. Experts believe that the global economic downturn and supply chain bottlenecks are contributing factors, and significant improvement is unlikely in the short term. It is recommended that the government increase support and optimize the business environment.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Decline Points to Economic Slowdown

US Rail Freight Decline Points to Economic Slowdown

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows that for the week ending August 26th, U.S. rail carloads and intermodal units both declined year-over-year. Carload traffic increased for motor vehicles & parts, petroleum products, and nonmetallic minerals, but decreased significantly for coal and grain. Cumulative data for the first 34 weeks of the year indicates a slight increase in carloads, but a notable decrease in intermodal volume. The decline in rail freight suggests a potential economic slowdown, requiring businesses to adapt and be flexible in their supply chain management.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Decline Points to Economic Slowdown

US Rail Freight Decline Points to Economic Slowdown

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight volume decreased year-over-year in the week ending August 19th. Carload traffic fell by 0.6%, and intermodal traffic declined by 4.6%. While commodities like automobiles and coal saw increases, significant declines were observed in grains and forest products. In the first 33 weeks of the year, carload traffic saw a slight increase of 0.2%, while intermodal traffic plummeted by 9.2%. This data raises concerns about a potential slowdown in U.S. economic growth, prompting businesses to be vigilant and adjust their strategies accordingly.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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Industrial Real Estate Thrives Despite Economic Volatility

Industrial Real Estate Thrives Despite Economic Volatility

Cushman & Wakefield's report indicates a robust US industrial real estate market in Q2, driven by logistics demand and a preference for high-quality assets. Despite pressures in the Western region, the overall leasing market remained stable with a gradual increase, accompanied by a slowdown in supply. Experts believe that tariff easing and rental adjustments are boosting market confidence. The market is expected to continue adjusting in the future, presenting both opportunities and challenges. The report highlights the resilience of the sector and its ability to adapt to evolving economic conditions.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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North American Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Loses in Intermodal

North American Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Loses in Intermodal

Recent data shows a slight increase in U.S. railcar loadings, but a significant decline in intermodal traffic. Changes in commodity shipment volumes reflect economic restructuring, while supply chain bottlenecks and labor shortages remain challenges. Although year-to-date figures show growth, the risk of a future economic recession warrants caution. Businesses should be flexible, and government and industry associations need to strengthen cooperation to promote the sustainable development of the rail freight market. Monitoring these indicators is crucial for understanding the broader economic landscape and adapting to evolving market conditions.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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USPS Expands Lastmile Delivery to Outside Bidders

USPS Expands Lastmile Delivery to Outside Bidders

The United States Postal Service (USPS) plans to open its last-mile delivery network, allowing shippers of all sizes to access it through a bidding process. This initiative aims to increase revenue, improve efficiency, and enable retailers to achieve faster delivery times. Expert opinions are divided, recognizing both opportunities and challenges. This move could intensify market competition, foster innovation, empower small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and reshape the consumer experience. USPS needs to overcome operational complexities, pricing strategies, and technical support challenges to succeed in this endeavor.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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