US Rail Freight Rises Intermodal Surges in Early March

US Rail Freight Rises Intermodal Surges in Early March

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight and intermodal volume both increased year-over-year for the week ending March 8, 2025. However, year-to-date, total carload traffic is down 1.5%, while intermodal volume is up 8.4%. Coal and grain shipments increased, while metallic ores, chemicals, and forest products declined. Railroad companies should capitalize on intermodal opportunities and address freight challenges to achieve sustainable growth.

01/30/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Decline Points to Yearend Economic Slowdown

US Rail Freight Decline Points to Yearend Economic Slowdown

Data from the Association of American Railroads indicates that U.S. rail freight and intermodal traffic decreased year-over-year for the week ending December 15th, but cumulative volumes remain slightly up for the year. Detailed data reveals varied performance across different commodity categories, reflecting structural market adjustments. Railroad companies need to pay attention to macroeconomic factors, supply chains, and the energy transition to actively address challenges, embrace change, and achieve sustainable development.

12/19/2025 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Rises Slightly Intermodal Declines in October

US Rail Freight Rises Slightly Intermodal Declines in October

U.S. rail freight saw a slight increase in overall volume, while intermodal transportation experienced a decline. Certain freight categories demonstrated growth, while others decreased. Despite short-term fluctuations, the long-term trend remains positive. Railroad companies need to improve operational efficiency and adapt to evolving market demands to capitalize on future opportunities. This includes optimizing resource allocation, enhancing customer service, and embracing technological advancements to maintain competitiveness and sustain growth in the rail freight sector.

01/17/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Networks Face Challenges and Opportunities in Intermodal Freight

US Rail Networks Face Challenges and Opportunities in Intermodal Freight

Larry Gross analyzes the intermodal transportation market, highlighting railroad cooperation as a significant trend. However, he cautions about the risks associated with mergers and acquisitions, as well as the impact of tariffs. Businesses should remain adaptable and flexible in response to these evolving market dynamics. The analysis emphasizes the importance of strategic planning and proactive measures to navigate the challenges and capitalize on the opportunities presented by the changing landscape of intermodal freight transportation.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Rail Unions Companies Reach Tentative Deals to Avoid Strikes

US Rail Unions Companies Reach Tentative Deals to Avoid Strikes

Significant progress has been made in US railroad labor negotiations. Two major unions reached tentative agreements with freight rail companies, potentially averting a rail service disruption that could have begun on September 16th. These agreements, reached under the recommendations of the Presidential Emergency Board (PEB), involve wage increases and lump-sum payments. While some unions have yet to reach agreements, parties are actively seeking solutions to ensure the stable operation of the rail transportation network.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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Chicagos Englewood Grapples With Rail Expansion Amid Ecommerce Surge

Chicagos Englewood Grapples With Rail Expansion Amid Ecommerce Surge

The Englewood community in Chicago faces eminent domain disputes due to Norfolk Southern's railroad yard expansion. Driven by e-commerce boom, the expansion raises concerns among residents about potential rights infringement and the legitimacy of the land seizure. While intended to alleviate congestion and boost employment, the expansion presents environmental and social challenges. This conflict highlights the complex relationship between urban development and community rights. The future remains uncertain, but the costs could be significant.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Livingston Port The Rise and Challenges of a Caribbean Transport Hub

Livingston Port The Rise and Challenges of a Caribbean Transport Hub

Livingston Port, situated in eastern Guatemala, is a vital access point to the Caribbean, renowned for its rich culture and growing tourism industry. However, the challenges posed by inadequate transportation infrastructure and high costs make it crucial to strike a balance between enhancing visitor experience and improving freight efficiency for future development.

07/24/2025 Port Encyclopedia
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Union Pacific Norfolk Southern Pursue Transcontinental Rail Merger

Union Pacific Norfolk Southern Pursue Transcontinental Rail Merger

Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern have submitted a merger application to create the first transcontinental railroad in the United States, connecting the East and West Coasts and over a hundred ports. This initiative aims to improve transportation efficiency, reduce costs, and boost trade. However, potential impacts on market competition, employment, and the environment need to be considered. The merger's success hinges on addressing these concerns while realizing the promised benefits of a more streamlined and integrated national rail network.

01/15/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Carload Rises As Intermodal Declines

US Rail Freight Carload Rises As Intermodal Declines

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight traffic showed divergence in the week ending August 14. Carload traffic increased by 5.7% year-over-year, driven by demand for commodities like coal and metallic ores. Intermodal traffic decreased by 3% year-over-year, constrained by port congestion and other factors. Year-to-date figures show carload and intermodal traffic up 9% and 14.6% respectively. Railroad companies need to adopt differentiated strategies to address the changing market dynamics.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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Union Pacific Adopts Precision Railroading to Boost Efficiency

Union Pacific Adopts Precision Railroading to Boost Efficiency

Union Pacific Railroad (UP) plans to implement Precision Scheduled Railroading (PSR) to optimize operational efficiency. The STB is highly concerned and requires UP to provide a detailed implementation plan. This article analyzes the concept and implementation challenges of PSR, explores UP's response strategies and expected benefits, and interprets the value and impact of PSR from a data analysis perspective. Whether UP can successfully implement PSR will have a profound impact on the entire rail transport industry.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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