US Rail Freight Volumes Drop Amid Economic Slowdown

US Rail Freight Volumes Drop Amid Economic Slowdown

The Association of American Railroads reported a significant year-over-year decrease in U.S. rail freight and intermodal traffic for the week ending September 12th. This decline was influenced by Labor Day and substantial drops in carloads of metallic ores and petroleum products. Year-to-date figures show a decrease in carload traffic but a slight increase in intermodal volume. Railroad companies should pay close attention to the global economic situation, diversify their business portfolio, improve operational efficiency, and proactively respond to the energy transition.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Strike Threatens Supply Chain Economic Disruption

US Rail Strike Threatens Supply Chain Economic Disruption

The US trucking industry warns of a devastating impact on the supply chain and significant economic losses if a rail strike occurs. While the trucking industry is willing to assist, its capacity is limited and cannot fully replace rail transport. A strike could lead to shortages of food, automobiles, and even affect the safety of drinking water. The American Trucking Associations is urging Congress to intervene and prevent a strike from causing a catastrophic impact on the economy. The potential disruption highlights the critical role of rail in the nation's supply network.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Rail Freight Volume Shows Signs of Rebound

US Rail Freight Volume Shows Signs of Rebound

US rail freight volume has recently shown a slight rebound, but overall recovery still faces challenges. Intermodal transportation performed well, with steady growth in cumulative data throughout the year. Macroeconomics, energy policies, supply chain bottlenecks, technological innovation, and competitive landscape are key factors affecting rail freight. In the future, railway companies need to actively adapt to market changes, seize opportunities, and achieve sustainable development.

01/30/2026 Logistics
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Canada Averts Rail Strike Exposing Supply Chain Risks

Canada Averts Rail Strike Exposing Supply Chain Risks

A labor dispute leading to a railway strike in Canada was quickly resolved with strong government intervention. This paper analyzes the causes of the strike, the government's response, and the implications for North American supply chains and businesses. It highlights the importance of prioritizing positive labor relations and building diversified supply chains to mitigate future disruptions. The swift resolution underscores the government's commitment to maintaining economic stability and preventing prolonged disruptions to critical infrastructure.

01/30/2026 Logistics
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Rail Freight Gains Traction As Costefficient Longhaul Option

Rail Freight Gains Traction As Costefficient Longhaul Option

Railway freight, with its cost advantages, timeliness, reliability, and stability, is an ideal choice for foreign trade enterprises in long-distance transportation. Through case studies and discussions on multimodal transport models, this highlights the significant potential of railway freight in reducing logistics costs and improving transportation efficiency. In the future, with the continuous development of global trade, railway freight will play an increasingly important role in the international logistics field. It offers a viable and cost-effective solution for businesses seeking to optimize their supply chains.

01/30/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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US Railroads Face Supply Chain Strains Amid Infrastructure Push

US Railroads Face Supply Chain Strains Amid Infrastructure Push

Ian Jefferies, President of the Association of American Railroads, provides an in-depth analysis of the Infrastructure Bill and White House executive orders' impact on rail freight, as well as the challenges and opportunities in the global supply chain. He emphasizes the crucial role of railroads in enhancing supply chain resilience and expresses confidence in the future of the rail and intermodal markets. He discusses how the bill will modernize rail infrastructure and improve efficiency.

02/11/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Rail Freight Declines in August As Auto Shipments Rise

US Rail Freight Declines in August As Auto Shipments Rise

US rail freight volume declined year-over-year in August 2023, with automotive growth being a bright spot. However, grain and coal shipments experienced significant drops. Intermodal volumes also remained sluggish. Experts attribute this primarily to a weak industrial economy. Year-to-date figures present a mixed picture, with rail freight volume remaining relatively flat and intermodal volume declining significantly. The rail industry faces economic uncertainty and competitive pressures in the future, but also opportunities from infrastructure investment and sustainable development initiatives.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Gains Carloads but Loses Intermodal Amid Economic Uncertainty

US Rail Freight Gains Carloads but Loses Intermodal Amid Economic Uncertainty

U.S. rail freight data shows carload traffic growth driven by coal and automotive sectors, while intermodal volume declined due to weak imports. Year-to-date figures reflect a similar trend, with mixed performance across North American railroads. Economic uncertainty is a key factor. The rail transportation industry faces challenges like energy transition, technological innovation, and increased competition. However, opportunities exist in infrastructure development and e-commerce growth. Overall performance reflects broader economic trends and highlights the evolving landscape of the rail freight sector.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Rebounds in February Amid Economic Recovery

US Rail Freight Rebounds in February Amid Economic Recovery

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows a significant increase in U.S. rail freight and intermodal traffic for the week ending February 19th, signaling economic recovery. Carload volume rose by 38.2% year-over-year, and intermodal volume increased by 26.3%. While total North American rail volume declined, regional interconnected development holds significant potential. Growth in rail freight is driven by economic recovery, infrastructure investments, and energy demand. The industry needs to innovate to address challenges and seize future development opportunities.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Growth in Select Sectors Despite Overall Drop

US Rail Freight Growth in Select Sectors Despite Overall Drop

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight traffic showed mixed results for the week ending March 19: carloads increased by 1.1% year-over-year, while intermodal units decreased by 5.7%. Coal and chemical shipments increased, while grain and petroleum shipments declined. In the first 11 weeks of 2022, total U.S. rail carloads increased by 3% year-over-year, while intermodal units decreased by 7.1%. North American rail freight faces similar challenges. It's crucial to monitor economic signals and seize opportunities.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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