North American Rail Freight Growth Slows Amid Economic Challenges

North American Rail Freight Growth Slows Amid Economic Challenges

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight and intermodal traffic decreased year-over-year in the week ending February 4th, though cumulative traffic still shows growth. Performance varies across sectors, with significant growth in automotive, parts, and petroleum, while coal and grain face challenges. Intermodal transportation faces transformation pressures, requiring optimized operations and strengthened collaboration. The North American rail transport industry faces both opportunities and challenges, necessitating continued innovation, cost control, and a focus on sustainable development.

01/28/2026 Logistics
Read More
Port of Virginia Invests 44M to Expand Rail Capacity

Port of Virginia Invests 44M to Expand Rail Capacity

The Port of Virginia is investing $44 million to expand its rail yard, doubling its capacity and aiming to enhance intermodal capabilities to serve inland markets. This initiative will reduce transportation costs, improve efficiency, and stimulate economic growth, benefiting shippers, carriers, consumers, and the Commonwealth of Virginia. The expanded rail capacity will allow for more efficient movement of goods, strengthening the port's position as a key gateway for international trade and improving supply chain resilience.

01/29/2026 Port Encyclopedia
Read More
US Senate Passes Bill to Prevent Freight Rail Strike

US Senate Passes Bill to Prevent Freight Rail Strike

The US Senate passed a crucial bill to avert a freight railroad strike that threatened to cost the economy up to $2 billion daily. The bill, based on recommendations from the Presidential Emergency Board, addresses disagreements between unions and railroad companies over wages, sick leave, and work schedules. The agreement includes wage increases, bonuses, and improved working conditions, ensuring the continued stability of the economy. This action prevents significant disruptions to supply chains and avoids potentially devastating economic consequences.

01/28/2026 Logistics
Read More
US Rail Freight Carloads Rise Intermodal Declines in January

US Rail Freight Carloads Rise Intermodal Declines in January

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight performance in late January presented a mixed picture. Carload traffic increased by 3.3% year-over-year, driven by nonmetallic minerals and coal. However, intermodal traffic declined by 6.7%, reflecting softening consumer demand and ongoing supply chain challenges. Overall North American rail traffic saw a slight decrease. Key influencing factors going forward include the broader macroeconomic environment, supply chain resilience, the energy transition, and technological innovation.

01/28/2026 Logistics
Read More
US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Dips in Intermodal

US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Dips in Intermodal

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail carload traffic increased by 3.3% year-over-year in the week ending January 21st, while intermodal volume decreased by 6.7%. Cumulative data for the first three weeks of the year shows a 3% increase in carloads and an 8.4% decrease in intermodal volume. Overall, North American rail freight presents a mixed picture, with the market influenced by a combination of economic conditions, supply chains, and energy prices.

01/28/2026 Logistics
Read More
North American Rail Freight Drop Hints at Economic Slowdown

North American Rail Freight Drop Hints at Economic Slowdown

Data from the Association of American Railroads indicates a decline in North American rail freight and intermodal volumes for the week ending October 8th, suggesting a potential slowdown in economic growth. While shipments of motor vehicles & parts, farm products, and petroleum products saw increases, volumes of chemicals and metallic ores decreased. Rail transportation companies need to proactively address these challenges and seize opportunities. Innovation and transformation are crucial for maintaining a competitive edge in the future.

01/28/2026 Logistics
Read More
Biden Averts Rail Strike to Stabilize US Supply Chains

Biden Averts Rail Strike to Stabilize US Supply Chains

US President Biden established a Presidential Emergency Board (PEB) to mediate the railway labor dispute, aiming to avert a potential railway strike that could disrupt supply chains. The PEB will investigate the dispute and propose solutions. The retail industry is concerned about the impact of a strike on the peak season, while railway companies state their commitment to reaching an agreement. Experts believe a strike is unlikely, but the final outcome depends on the bargaining between labor and management. The PEB's recommendations are crucial in navigating this complex situation and preventing significant economic disruption.

01/28/2026 Logistics
Read More
US Rail Unions Reach Tentative Deal Averting Strike Threat

US Rail Unions Reach Tentative Deal Averting Strike Threat

Progress has been made in the US railway labor negotiations as three unions reached a tentative agreement with freight rail companies, including wage increases and a lump-sum payment. However, attention remains focused on the progress of negotiations with the remaining unions to avoid a potential railway strike on September 16th. Preventing a strike is crucial to ensure the smooth functioning of the American economy.

01/28/2026 Logistics
Read More
Spain Highspeed Train Crash Kills 10 Disrupts Rail Services

Spain Highspeed Train Crash Kills 10 Disrupts Rail Services

A high-speed train derailment and collision near Cordoba, Spain, has resulted in at least 10 fatalities and 25 injuries, disrupting the high-speed rail line between Madrid and Andalusia. Preliminary investigations suggest a technical fault caused the derailment. Rescue and investigation efforts are underway, and the accident has raised concerns about the safety of high-speed rail travel. The incident is currently under investigation to determine the exact cause and prevent future occurrences.

01/18/2026 Logistics
Read More
COSCO Launches Chinaeurope Rail Service to Boost Land Logistics

COSCO Launches Chinaeurope Rail Service to Boost Land Logistics

COSCO SHIPPING goes 'onshore'! The inaugural COSCO SHIPPING Lines China-Europe Railway Express (Wuhan) marks a significant step in its multimodal transportation strategy. By collaborating with Wuhan, COSCO SHIPPING integrates sea and land transportation resources to create a comprehensive supply chain service covering the Eurasian continent. This actively implements the 'Belt and Road' initiative. The company plans to deepen cooperation and jointly build multiple international transportation corridors in the future, further enhancing its global logistics network and contributing to international trade facilitation.

02/11/2026 Logistics
Read More