US Rail Freight Declines Amid Economic Slowdown

US Rail Freight Declines Amid Economic Slowdown

In early September 2025, U.S. rail freight and intermodal volume decreased year-over-year, but cumulative volume for the year remained positive. Chemical and automotive shipments performed strongly, while coal declined. Macroeconomic factors, energy prices, industrial activity, and competitive dynamics influenced rail transport. Moving forward, the railway industry needs to improve efficiency, embrace technology, strengthen collaboration, and focus on environmental protection to address challenges and maintain competitiveness.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Gains Mask Intermodal Decline Amid Market Shift

US Rail Freight Gains Mask Intermodal Decline Amid Market Shift

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight showed mixed results for the week ending October 18th: carload originations slightly increased, but intermodal volume declined. While year-to-date figures remain positive, growth is slowing. Facing this market adjustment, railway companies need to strengthen infrastructure, optimize transportation organization, expand service offerings, and enhance technological innovation and collaboration to overcome challenges and seize opportunities.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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Automakers Shift to Trucks As Rail Capacity Falls Short

Automakers Shift to Trucks As Rail Capacity Falls Short

Car manufacturers are facing delivery bottlenecks, primarily due to insufficient rail capacity. Railway companies are increasing investment and optimizing processes, creating opportunities for road transport. Building a diversified transportation system, combining the strengths of rail and road, and leveraging technological innovation is key to solving the delivery challenges. Addressing the rail capacity shortage and exploring alternative transport solutions are crucial for ensuring timely and efficient vehicle delivery.

01/30/2026 Logistics
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Guide to Huangpu Ports Terminals Customs and Logistics

Guide to Huangpu Ports Terminals Customs and Logistics

This article provides an in-depth analysis of Guangzhou Huangpu Port, covering its terminal layout, customs jurisdiction, and railway transportation. It aims to offer a comprehensive logistics guide for cargo owners, helping them optimize transportation plans, achieve efficient customs clearance, and enhance market competitiveness. The analysis focuses on key aspects impacting freight forwarding and supply chain management within the Huangpu Port area, providing practical insights for businesses engaged in international trade.

09/29/2025 Port Encyclopedia
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Usmexico Border Shutdown Threatens Supply Chains Businesses Warn

Usmexico Border Shutdown Threatens Supply Chains Businesses Warn

Closing the US-Mexico border would severely impact supply chains, particularly affecting the automotive, railway, and retail sectors. Businesses should conduct risk assessments, diversify their supply chains, optimize inventory management, strengthen communication with government and partners, and leverage technology to mitigate potential economic losses. These proactive measures are crucial for navigating the uncertainties and ensuring business continuity in the face of potential border closures and related trade disruptions.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Csxs Precision Railroading Strategy Hits Operational Snags

Csxs Precision Railroading Strategy Hits Operational Snags

CSX Transportation faced operational chaos and lowered financial forecasts due to the implementation of Precision Scheduled Railroading (PSR). The U.S. Surface Transportation Board intervened, and internal employee dissatisfaction arose. CSX faces a transformation challenge, needing to balance efficiency, service, employee rights, and safety. Its experience provides valuable lessons for other railway companies considering similar lean initiatives and highlights the potential pitfalls of prioritizing efficiency over other crucial aspects of rail operations.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Union Pacific Norfolk Southern Merger Faces Industry Scrutiny

Union Pacific Norfolk Southern Merger Faces Industry Scrutiny

The proposed $85 billion merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern aims to create a transcontinental rail network across the United States. However, it faces concerns from unions and customers regarding competition, safety, and job security. BNSF Railway believes the merger would reshape the industry, while UP emphasizes customer benefits and labor protections. The Surface Transportation Board's (STB) decision will determine the future of rail transport in the US.

02/03/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Moscow Blizzard Disrupts Crossborder Ecommerce Supply Chains

Moscow Blizzard Disrupts Crossborder Ecommerce Supply Chains

The massive snowstorm in Moscow caused logistics paralysis, posing a significant challenge to cross-border e-commerce supply chains. This analysis examines the impact of the blizzard on air, road transport, and China-Europe Railway Express, as well as market reactions such as rising freight rates and delayed e-commerce orders. The article suggests that companies adopt diversified logistics strategies and digital upgrades to enhance supply chain resilience and risk resistance.

02/03/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Rail Freight Mixed in Early November Carloads Rise Intermodal Falls

US Rail Freight Mixed in Early November Carloads Rise Intermodal Falls

For the week ending November 8, 2025, U.S. rail carload traffic saw a slight increase of 0.1%, while intermodal volume decreased by 8.7% year-over-year. Shipments of nonmetallic minerals and grain increased, while automotive parts and coal shipments declined. Year-to-date freight volume remains on a growth trajectory. However, railway companies need to pay attention to challenges arising from macroeconomic factors, supply chains, and the energy transition.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Volume Rises Slightly in Late August

US Rail Freight Volume Rises Slightly in Late August

U.S. rail freight saw a slight increase overall, with intermodal transportation experiencing growth. Chemical shipments rose, while petroleum shipments declined. Both total freight volume and intermodal volume increased throughout the year, indicating positive trends in the railway sector and its contribution to the broader economy. This growth suggests a continued reliance on rail for moving goods across the country, particularly for intermodal solutions that integrate rail with other modes of transport.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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