US Rail Freight Sees Carload Drop Container Gains in November

US Rail Freight Sees Carload Drop Container Gains in November

Data from the Association of American Railroads indicates a mixed performance for the U.S. rail freight market in early November. Railcar loadings decreased by 5.2% year-over-year, although certain sectors like automotive and parts saw growth. Container volume experienced a slight increase of 1.5%, but the growth rate has slowed. Year-to-date figures show railcar loadings remaining relatively flat, while container volume has declined by 7%. Logistics managers should closely monitor market trends, diversify transportation methods, optimize supply chain management, and strengthen risk management strategies.

02/11/2026 Logistics
Read More
XPO Logistics Sells Intermodal Unit to STG in Strategic Move

XPO Logistics Sells Intermodal Unit to STG in Strategic Move

XPO Logistics sold its intermodal business to STG Logistics for $710 million, aiming to focus on its core Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) and truck brokerage businesses and optimize its capital structure. STG Logistics expands its service offerings and builds an integrated logistics platform through the acquisition. This move reflects the trends of specialization and integration in the logistics industry, as well as the opportunities and challenges facing the multimodal transportation market. The deal signifies a strategic shift for both companies in a dynamic logistics landscape.

02/11/2026 Logistics
Read More
US Rail Freight Declines in April but Maintains Annual Growth

US Rail Freight Declines in April but Maintains Annual Growth

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight and intermodal volumes decreased year-over-year in mid-April, but cumulative volumes remained up for the year. Freight saw increases in chemicals and coal, while grain, metallic ores, and petroleum declined. Intermodal continues to face challenges. Overall, rail transport in North America declined. Key influencing factors include macroeconomic conditions, supply chain dynamics, and industry structural changes. Future focus should be on long-term trends, addressing challenges, and building an efficient intermodal transportation system.

02/11/2026 Logistics
Read More
US Rail Freight Coal Gains Offset Broader Demand Slump

US Rail Freight Coal Gains Offset Broader Demand Slump

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight and intermodal traffic decreased year-over-year for the week ending May 21st. While coal carloads saw an increase, categories like grain and metals declined. Cumulative data shows a slight increase in rail freight volume but a decrease in intermodal volume. Economic downturn, supply chain issues, and changing consumer patterns are major contributing factors. The future market outlook remains uncertain. This decline reflects broader economic trends and highlights the challenges facing the rail industry.

02/11/2026 Logistics
Read More
US Rail Freight Carloads Rise Intermodal Declines

US Rail Freight Carloads Rise Intermodal Declines

US rail freight performance in August showed mixed results. Carload traffic increased by 3.4%, while intermodal traffic decreased by 0.3%. Year-to-date carload traffic saw a slight increase, but intermodal traffic declined. The industry is facing a period of transition and adjustment. The diverging trends highlight the changing dynamics within the freight sector and potentially reflect broader economic shifts impacting different transportation modes. Continued monitoring of these indicators is crucial for understanding the overall health and future direction of the rail freight industry.

02/11/2026 Logistics
Read More
US Rail Freight Carloads Up Intermodal Down

US Rail Freight Carloads Up Intermodal Down

According to the Association of American Railroads, for the week ending July 23, U.S. rail carload traffic increased by 1.1% year-over-year, while intermodal volume decreased by 2.5%. Carload gains were seen in motor vehicles, coal, and farm products, while declines occurred in metals, petroleum, and miscellaneous carloads. Total North American rail traffic decreased by 1.4% year-over-year. Rail freight data serves as a barometer of economic activity, providing insights into the current state of the economy and helping to forecast future trends.

02/11/2026 Logistics
Read More
Global Air Cargo Industry Adapts to Stricter IATA Perishables Rules

Global Air Cargo Industry Adapts to Stricter IATA Perishables Rules

This IATA Perishable Cargo Regulations (PCR) course aims to enhance the safety and efficiency of fresh air cargo and unlock business opportunities. It covers PCR specifications, regulatory standards, stakeholder responsibilities, cargo classification, packaging requirements, documentation and labeling, temperature control, ground handling, emergency procedures, risk management, and market trends. It is suitable for aviation, logistics, and training personnel, helping you succeed in the field of fresh air cargo transportation. The course provides practical knowledge and insights to navigate the complexities of transporting perishable goods by air.

01/20/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
Read More
Datadriven Strategies Transform Material Handling for Efficiency

Datadriven Strategies Transform Material Handling for Efficiency

The material handling industry is under pressure to change, and sticking to traditional methods is no longer viable. This article explores how to break free from the 'status quo' and leverage data and technological innovation to improve efficiency. It emphasizes the importance of data visibility, mobile device management, location data analytics, voice technology, forklift market trends, supply chain digital transformation, and interconnectedness. The aim is to help companies optimize their processes and achieve sustainable development by embracing these data-driven strategies and innovative solutions.

01/20/2026 Logistics
Read More
Breakbulk Sector Adapts with Upgrades and Tech Innovations

Breakbulk Sector Adapts with Upgrades and Tech Innovations

The maritime bulk cargo transportation is undergoing a profound transformation, with the upgrading of multipurpose vessels (MPVs) being crucial. Market trends indicate the phasing out of smaller vessels, replaced by MPVs with enhanced lifting capacity and the ability to accommodate diverse cargo types. Technological advancements extend beyond the vessels themselves to encompass marketing and booking methods. Shippers need to pay attention to changes in market competition and explore new cooperation models to address future challenges. The shift towards larger, more versatile MPVs is reshaping the industry.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
Retailers Adapt Lastmile Delivery Strategies for Postpandemic Demand

Retailers Adapt Lastmile Delivery Strategies for Postpandemic Demand

Post-pandemic, last-mile delivery faces challenges including rising customer expectations, increasing cost pressures, accelerating technological changes, heightened environmental requirements, and growing supply chain uncertainties. This paper delves into five key trends shaping last-mile delivery: customer-centricity, lean operations, technology enablement, green logistics, and resilient supply chains. It provides logistics companies with strategies to address these challenges and build efficient, intelligent, and sustainable last-mile delivery systems. The focus is on adapting to the evolving landscape and leveraging innovation for a competitive edge.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More