North American Rail Freight Volumes Drop Amid Demand Slowdown

North American Rail Freight Volumes Drop Amid Demand Slowdown

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows a year-over-year decline in U.S. and North American rail freight volume for the week ending May 14. The analysis explores the reasons behind the decrease in carload and intermodal traffic, including economic fluctuations, supply chain bottlenecks, and the energy transition. It also looks at the challenges and opportunities facing the rail freight market, emphasizing the importance of technological innovation, diversified services, and sustainable development. The future of rail freight depends on adapting to these changing dynamics.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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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
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US Rail Freight Growth Uneven in May Key Sectors Gain

US Rail Freight Growth Uneven in May Key Sectors Gain

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail traffic and intermodal volumes declined year-over-year in May, although commodities like crushed stone, motor vehicles, and food products experienced growth. The AAR suggests the data reflects a mixed economic picture. Overall rail traffic volumes edged up slightly in the first five months, while intermodal volumes decreased. Future rail freight development hinges on macroeconomic conditions, supply chains, geopolitical factors, and industry transformation. The performance of specific sectors highlights the nuanced nature of the current economic environment.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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Railroads Debate Passing Acquisition Costs to Shippers

Railroads Debate Passing Acquisition Costs to Shippers

A dispute arose between US rail freight companies and BNSF Railway regarding whether an acquisition premium should be included in freight rate costs. Freight companies are concerned about rising rates, while BNSF emphasizes market-based pricing. The STB's ruling will impact rail transportation pricing and market competition. The core issue revolves around how the acquisition cost of BNSF by Berkshire Hathaway should be factored into the rates charged to customers. This decision will set a precedent for future acquisitions and their impact on the rail freight industry.

01/22/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Sees Mixed Results Carloads Rise Intermodal Falls

US Rail Freight Sees Mixed Results Carloads Rise Intermodal Falls

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail carloads increased by 2.9% year-over-year for the week ending August 20th, driven primarily by coal and grain shipments. However, intermodal traffic decreased by 2.4% year-over-year, with a year-to-date decline of 5.5%. While overall North American rail freight volume saw a slight increase, intermodal transportation also faced a decline. This divergence in the rail freight market reflects the complexity of the economic situation, highlighting the need for improved efficiency and collaboration to address future challenges.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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Rail Logistics Financial Services Upgraded to Support High-quality Development of the Real Economy

Rail Logistics Financial Services Upgraded to Support High-quality Development of the Real Economy

China Railway Group has partnered with China Construction Bank to launch a pilot program for railway logistics financial services. The initiative introduces three financial products: 'Railway Freight Loan', 'Letter of Credit Settlement', and 'Railway Document Financing', aimed at reducing logistics costs and supporting the development of the real economy. The pilot will cover regions including Sichuan, Chongqing, Yunnan, Guangxi, and Hubei, benefiting various market participants.

07/23/2025 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Rises in Carloads Dips in Intermodal

US Rail Freight Rises in Carloads Dips in Intermodal

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail carloads increased by 0.6% for the week ending August 23rd, with grain and automotive shipments performing strongly. However, intermodal traffic decreased by 1.9% year-over-year, potentially indicating a cooling consumer demand. Year-to-date figures still show overall growth in rail freight demand. Looking ahead, rail freight faces challenges such as economic recession risks and labor shortages, but also opportunities including infrastructure investment and sustainable development initiatives. Overall, the sector presents a mixed picture of present growth and future uncertainty.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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Land Transport Optimization Boosts Supply Chain Resilience

Land Transport Optimization Boosts Supply Chain Resilience

Road transportation, a crucial component of the supply chain, connects various links through full truckload (FTL) and less-than-truckload (LTL) shipping. Optimizing road transportation requires selecting suitable partners, optimizing routes, implementing tracking, adopting automation technologies, and strengthening collaboration. Digital technologies such as IoT, Big Data, AI, and Blockchain are driving road transportation towards intelligent, green, and sustainable development. These advancements improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance overall supply chain resilience.

09/28/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Xians Zhu Hong Park Emerges As Key Silk Road Logistics Hub

Xians Zhu Hong Park Emerges As Key Silk Road Logistics Hub

Xi'an Zhu Hong Logistics Park is seeking investment. The park covers nearly 300 acres and is located at the starting point of the Silk Road, boasting convenient transportation. It integrates logistics freight, warehousing, and distribution functions. We sincerely invite logistics companies, e-commerce businesses, and other enterprises to settle in and jointly build an efficient and convenient logistics service system, contributing to regional economic development.

03/31/2025 Logistics
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Dejiali Group Expands Henans Belt and Road Trade in Southeast Asia

Dejiali Group Expands Henans Belt and Road Trade in Southeast Asia

Li Mingxian, Executive Chairman of the Henan Federation of Overseas Chinese Entrepreneurs and Chairman of Dejiali Group, led a delegation to Laos and Thailand. The visit aimed to strengthen connections with overseas Henan business associations, explore local markets, and promote the connection of Henan enterprises with Southeast Asian resources and project cooperation. This initiative supports Henan's "going global" strategy, integrates into the "Belt and Road" construction, and lays the groundwork for deepening cooperation.

02/11/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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