US Intermodal Volume Fluctuates in August Amid Economic Pressures

US Intermodal Volume Fluctuates in August Amid Economic Pressures

US intermodal volume saw a slight rebound in August, but with significant structural divergence: truckload transportation continued to shrink, while domestic container volume bucked the trend and increased. Year-to-date overall intermodal volume is down, with inflation and fuel prices having a complex impact. Going forward, refined operations and diversified services are crucial for the development of intermodal companies. This requires a strategic approach to adapt to evolving market demands and optimize resource utilization for sustained growth.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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Trucking Shortage Drives Up Freight Costs for Businesses

Trucking Shortage Drives Up Freight Costs for Businesses

Shrinking truckload capacity is a top concern for shippers, driven by factors like the ELD mandate, driver shortages, and manufacturing growth. Intermodal transportation emerges as a crucial strategy to combat capacity challenges. Businesses need to optimize their supply chains and select appropriate intermodal solutions to reduce costs, improve efficiency, and maintain a competitive edge in the market. Focusing on strategic intermodal implementation allows companies to navigate the current capacity constraints and build more resilient and cost-effective supply chains.

01/27/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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West Coast Imports Boost Intermodal Growth in Q4

West Coast Imports Boost Intermodal Growth in Q4

The US intermodal market saw solid growth in early Q4 2023, driven by West Coast imports and consumer spending, according to IANA data. International container shipping performed strongly, while trailer volumes continued to decline. Looking ahead, infrastructure development, technological innovation, and supportive policies will be crucial for the intermodal market's future development. The rise of container shipping indicates a shift in freight transportation preferences, highlighting the importance of adapting to evolving market dynamics and optimizing intermodal networks.

01/30/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Intermodal Rises Coal Declines in February

US Rail Freight Intermodal Rises Coal Declines in February

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail carload traffic decreased slightly by 0.7% year-over-year for the week ending February 8. However, intermodal traffic increased by 7.4%. Chemical and nonmetallic minerals carloads increased, while coal and metallic ores carloads declined. Year-to-date, carload traffic is even with last year, while intermodal traffic is up 9.7%. The rail freight market is experiencing structural changes, with intermodal transportation becoming a major driver of growth.

01/30/2026 Logistics
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Union Pacific CSX Open Detroitlaredo Intermodal Route

Union Pacific CSX Open Detroitlaredo Intermodal Route

Union Pacific and CSX have upgraded their UMAX intermodal service, adding a new route from Detroit to Laredo. This initiative aims to combine the strengths of rail and trucking, enhancing the efficiency of US-Mexico trade and reducing logistics costs for businesses. This upgrade signals the growing potential of intermodal transportation in North America.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Demand Mixed As Recovery Lags

US Rail Freight Demand Mixed As Recovery Lags

The US rail freight market is showing a diverging trend: carload volume is declining, while intermodal volume is increasing. This is driven by factors such as economic restructuring, sluggish commodity markets, and changing consumption patterns, leading to varied demand. To adapt to market changes and seek growth, railway companies should diversify services, innovate technologically, control costs, and engage in strategic partnerships.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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North American Intermodal Growth Slows Domestic Containers Rise in Q2

North American Intermodal Growth Slows Domestic Containers Rise in Q2

The Intermodal Association of North America (IANA) report indicates a slowdown in overall intermodal volume growth in Q2, but domestic container business performed strongly. Trailer volumes continued to decline, and international container growth faced headwinds. IMC data suggests increased momentum in truckload transportation. The market presents both opportunities and challenges moving forward, and its trajectory warrants close attention.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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Laos Advances Rail Projects to Boost Regional Connectivity

Laos Advances Rail Projects to Boost Regional Connectivity

Laos is accelerating railway construction, officially approving the first phase of the Laos-Vietnam railway and actively preparing for the Vientiane-Champasak railway. This move aims to open up cross-border transportation channels, build a north-south economic artery, and transform Laos from a “land-locked” to a “land-linked” country. It will solidify its hub function in the ASEAN regional supply chain, promote tourism development, and achieve comprehensive economic upgrading. The railway projects are crucial for Laos's economic transformation and regional integration.

01/26/2026 Logistics
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East Coast Ports Adapt Intermodal Strategies Amid Rising Demand

East Coast Ports Adapt Intermodal Strategies Amid Rising Demand

This paper provides an in-depth analysis of major seaports along the US East Coast, including New York, Boston, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Miami, Savannah, Houston, and New Orleans. It details each port's geographical location, strengths, and suitable applications. The article also clarifies the distinction between intermodal transportation and transshipment. Furthermore, it explores how to leverage intermodal strategies such as sea-land, sea-rail, and sea-air to optimize supply chains, reduce logistics costs, and improve transportation efficiency, offering practical insights for international trade.

09/26/2025 Port Encyclopedia
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US Rail Freight Defies Economic Slowdown

US Rail Freight Defies Economic Slowdown

Recent data shows year-over-year growth in US rail freight and intermodal volumes. Rail freight experienced slight growth with structural differentiation, while intermodal transportation performed strongly, leading the overall increase. Full-year data is encouraging, but long-term trends require attention. The rail industry needs to strengthen infrastructure, optimize transportation organization, expand service offerings, enhance technological innovation, and foster collaboration to address market adjustments and competitive pressures. By doing so, the industry can seize opportunities and meet challenges effectively.

01/30/2026 Logistics
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