US Rail Freight Shows Early 2025 Growth Amid Challenges

US Rail Freight Shows Early 2025 Growth Amid Challenges

The Association of American Railroads reported a year-over-year decrease in U.S. rail freight and intermodal traffic for the week ending September 20th, but year-to-date volumes remain up. Coal carloads experienced the largest decline, while grain and metallic ores saw increases. Railroad operators need to improve operational efficiency, expand service offerings, and focus on sustainability to address challenges and capitalize on opportunities in the evolving freight landscape. The report highlights the ongoing shifts and pressures within the rail freight sector and its broader impact on the supply chain.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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Railroad Mergers Threaten US Supply Chains Chemical Group Warns

Railroad Mergers Threaten US Supply Chains Chemical Group Warns

Chris Jahn, President of the American Chemistry Council (ACC), provides an in-depth analysis of the potential risks associated with the proposed UP-NS railroad merger. He emphasizes the possibility of increased monopolization, diminished service quality, and negative impacts on American manufacturing. The ACC urges regulators to carefully evaluate the merger and actively promote reforms such as reciprocal switching to foster a more competitive rail transportation system and empower American manufacturing. The ACC believes a thorough review is crucial to safeguard the supply chain and ensure fair market practices.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Global Air Freight Transit Times Key Factors for Faster Shipping

Global Air Freight Transit Times Key Factors for Faster Shipping

International air freight time efficiency is affected by various factors. Direct flights offer stable transit times, while connecting flights are more volatile. Route distance, customs clearance efficiency, and peak/off-peak seasons all play a role. Routes from China to Southeast Asia are the fastest, while those to Europe and America vary significantly. African/South American routes experience the most fluctuations. To optimize time efficiency, prioritize direct flights, plan ahead, optimize customs documentation, and choose a reliable freight forwarder. Understanding these factors helps businesses manage expectations and improve their supply chain efficiency.

02/04/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Guide to Avoiding FOB Pitfalls in Engineering Machinery Exports

Guide to Avoiding FOB Pitfalls in Engineering Machinery Exports

This article analyzes the critical aspects of construction machinery export under FOB terms from a data analyst's perspective. It provides an actionable checklist, emphasizing clear responsibility boundaries, selecting suitable transportation solutions, highlighting the importance of packaging evidence, negotiating transparent risk with freight forwarders, anticipating hidden charges at the port of origin, and building an auditable delivery evidence chain. The aim is to help novice foreign traders avoid first-order pitfalls and maximize profits. This analysis focuses on providing practical advice for managing risks and optimizing the export process.

02/05/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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US Manufacturing Confidence Hits Low Amid Economic Concerns

US Manufacturing Confidence Hits Low Amid Economic Concerns

A Grant Thornton LLP study reveals a sharp decline in U.S. manufacturers' confidence in the economic outlook, with only 13% expecting improvement in the next six months. This downturn is attributed to a combination of factors, including the looming threat of recession, policy uncertainty, labor shortages, and ongoing supply chain restructuring. To navigate these challenges, businesses need to diversify markets, improve efficiency, drive innovation, strengthen talent development, and enhance risk management strategies. These actions are crucial for manufacturers to remain competitive and resilient in the face of economic headwinds.

02/05/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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National Maritime Day Celebrates Resilience in Global Trade

National Maritime Day Celebrates Resilience in Global Trade

On National Maritime Day, this article highlights the responsibilities and contributions of the maritime industry during the pandemic. Using the ports of San Francisco and Oakland as examples, it emphasizes the critical role of the maritime sector in global trade and its contribution to ensuring supply chain stability during the crisis. The article also explores future trends such as port intelligent upgrades, green shipping, and the protection of seafarers' rights. It calls for international cooperation to address global challenges and pays tribute to all maritime professionals for their dedication and resilience.

02/05/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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North American Ports Struggle Amid Pandemic Fitch

North American Ports Struggle Amid Pandemic Fitch

A Fitch Ratings report highlights the widespread impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on North American ports, causing supply chain disruptions and operational restrictions. Ports faced pressure from both demand and supply sides, with varying degrees of impact across different port types. The pandemic has exposed vulnerabilities, but also accelerated trends like automation and digitalization. While short-term challenges persist, economic recovery and port transformation offer long-term opportunities for growth and resilience. Ports are adapting to the new normal by diversifying cargo, investing in infrastructure, and improving efficiency.

02/05/2026 Port Encyclopedia
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Supply Chains Face Dual Crisis From Hurricanes and COVID19

Supply Chains Face Dual Crisis From Hurricanes and COVID19

A joint report by Resilience360 and Riskpulse highlights the unprecedented challenges to global supply chains in 2020 due to the combined impact of the hurricane season and the COVID-19 pandemic. The report forecasts above-normal Atlantic hurricane activity and analyzes the pandemic's effects on port operations. It recommends that businesses map their supply chains, develop contingency plans, leverage technology, and enhance collaboration to improve supply chain resilience and withstand the double storm. These measures are crucial for mitigating disruptions and ensuring business continuity in the face of these compounding risks.

02/05/2026 Logistics
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Xian to Host 2026 Western China Semiconductor Expo

Xian to Host 2026 Western China Semiconductor Expo

The 2026 China Western Semiconductor and Integrated Circuit Industry Expo will be held in Xi'an, bringing together industry leaders and enterprises from home and abroad. Focusing on the upstream and downstream of the semiconductor industry chain, through exhibitions, forums, and technical discussions, it will explore industry hotspots and promote the development of the semiconductor industry in western China. Exhibits cover IC design, manufacturing, packaging and testing, materials, and equipment. The expo aims to create a platform for cooperation and exchange, and achieve a win-win future for the industry.

02/05/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Jordan Customs Boosts Air Cargo Efficiency with WCO Risk Management

Jordan Customs Boosts Air Cargo Efficiency with WCO Risk Management

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a follow-up risk management workshop for the Jordan Customs Department (JCD) to enhance its air cargo clearance capabilities and develop a national risk management plan. Through expert guidance and collaboration, Jordan Customs completed a risk management enhancement plan and committed to its practical application, contributing to trade facilitation and security. The workshop aimed to strengthen JCD's ability to identify and mitigate risks, ultimately improving efficiency and security within the supply chain. This initiative underscores the importance of effective risk management in modern customs administration.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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