US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Loses in Intermodal

US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Loses in Intermodal

US rail carload traffic saw a slight increase in March, while intermodal volume declined. Year-to-date, carload traffic is up, but intermodal volume is down. Overall, North American rail freight experienced a downturn. This suggests a mixed performance in the rail freight sector, with traditional carload shipments showing some resilience while intermodal, often seen as a bellwether for economic activity, is weakening. The decline in North American freight indicates broader economic headwinds affecting the region's transportation industry.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Dips in Container Volume

US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Dips in Container Volume

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows a significant recent increase in U.S. rail carload traffic, primarily driven by coal and minerals. Container traffic, however, has slightly decreased, potentially due to global supply chain challenges. Year-to-date, overall freight volume remains on a downward trend. North American rail performance generally surpasses that of the U.S., with Mexico experiencing strong growth. The rail freight market faces a mixed landscape of challenges and opportunities moving forward.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Sees Coal Oil Gains Amid Container Decline

US Rail Freight Sees Coal Oil Gains Amid Container Decline

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight traffic showed mixed results for the week ending March 4th. While total carloads decreased year-over-year, shipments of commodities like coal and petroleum increased. However, container traffic experienced a significant decline, weighing down overall freight volume. Year-to-date, both U.S. and North American rail freight volumes have slightly decreased. The future trajectory remains uncertain, presenting both challenges and opportunities for the rail freight industry.

01/20/2026 Logistics
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Chinaus Ocean Freight Transit Times Vary for East West Coasts

Chinaus Ocean Freight Transit Times Vary for East West Coasts

This paper compares ocean shipping times from China to US West and East Coast ports. It analyzes factors influencing transit time, including sailing distance, seasonal fluctuations, vessel type selection, and port efficiency. The paper suggests strategies for time optimization, such as choosing expedited shipping services, utilizing sea-rail intermodal transport, and avoiding peak seasons. This provides a reference for businesses developing efficient international logistics strategies.

02/03/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Sees Split Trends in Carload Intermodal Volumes

US Rail Freight Sees Split Trends in Carload Intermodal Volumes

According to the Association of American Railroads, for the week ending August 23rd, U.S. rail carloads increased by 0.6% year-over-year, while intermodal traffic decreased by 1.9%. Grain and automotive shipments showed strong performance, while oil and coal shipments declined. Year-to-date figures still indicate solid growth. Railroad companies need to improve efficiency, invest in infrastructure, expand services, and focus on sustainable development.

01/22/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Declines in August As Auto Shipments Rise

US Rail Freight Declines in August As Auto Shipments Rise

US rail freight volume declined year-over-year in August 2023, with automotive growth being a bright spot. However, grain and coal shipments experienced significant drops. Intermodal volumes also remained sluggish. Experts attribute this primarily to a weak industrial economy. Year-to-date figures present a mixed picture, with rail freight volume remaining relatively flat and intermodal volume declining significantly. The rail industry faces economic uncertainty and competitive pressures in the future, but also opportunities from infrastructure investment and sustainable development initiatives.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Gains Carloads but Loses Intermodal Amid Economic Uncertainty

US Rail Freight Gains Carloads but Loses Intermodal Amid Economic Uncertainty

U.S. rail freight data shows carload traffic growth driven by coal and automotive sectors, while intermodal volume declined due to weak imports. Year-to-date figures reflect a similar trend, with mixed performance across North American railroads. Economic uncertainty is a key factor. The rail transportation industry faces challenges like energy transition, technological innovation, and increased competition. However, opportunities exist in infrastructure development and e-commerce growth. Overall performance reflects broader economic trends and highlights the evolving landscape of the rail freight sector.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Rebounds in February Amid Economic Recovery

US Rail Freight Rebounds in February Amid Economic Recovery

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows a significant increase in U.S. rail freight and intermodal traffic for the week ending February 19th, signaling economic recovery. Carload volume rose by 38.2% year-over-year, and intermodal volume increased by 26.3%. While total North American rail volume declined, regional interconnected development holds significant potential. Growth in rail freight is driven by economic recovery, infrastructure investments, and energy demand. The industry needs to innovate to address challenges and seize future development opportunities.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Growth in Select Sectors Despite Overall Drop

US Rail Freight Growth in Select Sectors Despite Overall Drop

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight traffic showed mixed results for the week ending March 19: carloads increased by 1.1% year-over-year, while intermodal units decreased by 5.7%. Coal and chemical shipments increased, while grain and petroleum shipments declined. In the first 11 weeks of 2022, total U.S. rail carloads increased by 3% year-over-year, while intermodal units decreased by 7.1%. North American rail freight faces similar challenges. It's crucial to monitor economic signals and seize opportunities.

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

US Rail Freight Sees Mixed Trends Carloads Rise Intermodal Falls

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail carload traffic increased by 4.2% for the week ending January 14th. However, intermodal containers and trailers decreased by 7% year-over-year. Total North American rail traffic experienced a slight decline, reflecting evolving supply chain dynamics and market challenges. The mixed performance indicates a complex landscape for rail freight, with carload growth potentially offset by weakness in intermodal transportation. This highlights the need for adaptability and strategic planning in the economic logistics sector.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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