STB Extends Comment Deadline Amid Freight Rail Reform Push

STB Extends Comment Deadline Amid Freight Rail Reform Push

The U.S. Surface Transportation Board (STB) has announced a postponement of the comment deadline for the “reciprocal switching” rulemaking, aimed at providing poorly served freight shippers with access to other rail carriers. The new rule establishes three key performance standards: service reliability, consistency, and adequacy of local service. This has sparked industry expectations for improved rail freight efficiency, while also raising challenges regarding the applicability of the rule to contract traffic and other detailed aspects.

02/11/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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STB Extends Comment Deadline on Rail Freight Switching Rule

STB Extends Comment Deadline on Rail Freight Switching Rule

The U.S. Surface Transportation Board (STB) has extended the comment period for its reciprocal switching rulemaking to December 20th, aiming to address inadequate rail freight service. The proposed rule focuses on reciprocal switching, outlining three key performance standards – service reliability, consistency, and local service – to provide recourse for freight shippers. Diverse perspectives are being considered as the STB seeks to improve rail freight service quality through these reforms. The extension allows for further input on the proposed changes and their potential impact on the industry.

02/11/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Regulators Extend Comment Period for Rail Switching Rule

US Regulators Extend Comment Period for Rail Switching Rule

The U.S. Surface Transportation Board (STB) has extended the deadline for comments on “Reciprocal Switching,” drawing industry attention. This proposal aims to provide remedies for shippers experiencing poor rail service by establishing performance standards for service reliability, consistency, and local service. This would potentially grant shippers access to reciprocal switching. The industry holds differing views on the proposal's potential impact, recognizing both opportunities and challenges associated with its implementation. The extension allows for further consideration of these complex issues.

02/11/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Rail Freight Rebounds in Midseptember with Volume Growth

US Rail Freight Rebounds in Midseptember with Volume Growth

In mid-September, U.S. rail freight volumes increased, but the cumulative total for the year remains lower than last year. Transportation of automobiles and petroleum increased, while coal and other commodities declined. Influenced by macroeconomic factors and other variables, rail freight needs to innovate and adapt to the market. The growth shows a positive sign but the overall trend requires attention. The industry needs to focus on adapting to changing demands and optimizing operations to compete effectively in the evolving transportation landscape.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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Rail Industry Grapples With Safety Labor and Sustainability Pressures

Rail Industry Grapples With Safety Labor and Sustainability Pressures

Leaders from the Association of American Railroads (AAR) and the American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association (ASLRRA) addressed key issues such as railroad safety, labor relations, and operations at the RailTrends conference. The discussion included progress in labor negotiations, the need for railroad safety legislation, and the advantages of short line railroads in customer service. The article analyzes these points and offers a glimpse into the future direction of the railroad industry, highlighting the importance of collaboration and innovation for sustained growth and improved safety across the network.

02/11/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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STB Implements New Rule to Improve Freight Rail Service

STB Implements New Rule to Improve Freight Rail Service

New STB rules in the United States allow shippers experiencing poor freight service to switch rail carriers, breaking monopolies and potentially improving service. This reciprocal switching regulation aims to address service deficiencies. Industry reaction has been mixed, with some welcoming the increased competition and others expressing concerns about operational challenges and unintended consequences. The actual impact of the new rules remains to be seen and will depend on how they are implemented and utilized by shippers and railroads.

02/11/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Rail Freight Mixed Carloads Fall Container Traffic Rises

US Rail Freight Mixed Carloads Fall Container Traffic Rises

U.S. rail freight traffic decreased by 5.2% year-over-year, although carload, agricultural products, and petroleum shipments increased. Container traffic growth slowed. This reflects the structural adjustment of the U.S. economy, indicating a need for businesses to embrace digital transformation to adapt to the changing landscape and maintain competitiveness. The shift in commodity transportation highlights evolving consumer demands and supply chain dynamics, requiring businesses to optimize their operations and logistics strategies.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Sees Rising Carloads Falling Container Traffic

US Rail Freight Sees Rising Carloads Falling Container Traffic

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail carload traffic increased by 3.5% for the week ending September 11th, year-over-year. Shipments of commodities like coal and metallic ores rose, while container traffic decreased by 8.3% compared to the same period last year. Year-to-date figures show growth in both carload and container volumes. The article analyzes the contributing factors behind these trends and provides strategic recommendations for freight companies navigating the current market dynamics. The overall picture suggests a complex interplay of factors influencing rail freight in the context of economic recovery.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Gains Offset by Declining Container Volumes

US Rail Freight Gains Offset by Declining Container Volumes

Recent US rail freight data reveals a slight increase in traditional carload traffic, primarily driven by coal, grain, and automotive shipments. However, container and trailer volumes experienced a minor decline, potentially reflecting a global trade slowdown and supply chain issues. Year-to-date figures further confirm this trend, suggesting a cautiously optimistic outlook for the US economy, but with lingering risks. The mixed performance highlights the complex interplay of domestic demand and international trade impacting the rail sector.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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FRA Enforces Rail Safety Deadline Threatens Fines for Noncompliance

FRA Enforces Rail Safety Deadline Threatens Fines for Noncompliance

The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) reiterated the mandatory implementation of Positive Train Control (PTC) systems by the end of 2015, with financial penalties for non-compliant railroad operators. Despite industry calls for extensions, the FRA emphasized safety and strict enforcement. The PTC system, designed to prevent train collisions, over-speed derailments, and other accidents, serves as the 'last line of defense' for railroad safety. The FRA's firm stance underscores the critical importance of PTC in mitigating risks and ensuring passenger and freight safety across the nation's rail network.

02/12/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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