US Rail Freight Declines in May As Coal Petroleum Demand Wanes

US Rail Freight Declines in May As Coal Petroleum Demand Wanes

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows a decline in both U.S. rail carloads and intermodal units for the week ending May 21. Significant decreases were observed in coal and petroleum products shipments, while miscellaneous carloads, nonmetallic minerals, and motor vehicles & parts saw increases. The article analyzes the multiple factors contributing to the freight volume decline, including economic slowdown and shifting consumer demand. It suggests strategies such as diversifying business operations, improving service quality, and embracing technological innovation to address the challenges and maintain competitiveness in the rail freight industry.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Growth Mixed As Carload Gains Offset Intermodal Losses

US Rail Freight Growth Mixed As Carload Gains Offset Intermodal Losses

The US rail freight market in September 2021 saw a mixed performance with increased carload traffic but a decline in intermodal volume. Carload shipments of coal and metallic ores showed significant growth, while automobiles & parts and grain decreased. Cumulative data for the year remained strong. Key factors for future development include digital transformation, infrastructure development, expansion of service offerings, and a focus on sustainability. These strategies are crucial for adapting to evolving market demands and ensuring the long-term viability of the rail freight industry.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Sees Carload Rise Intermodal Dip in Late January

US Rail Freight Sees Carload Rise Intermodal Dip in Late January

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight traffic presented a mixed picture in late January. Carload traffic increased year-over-year, driven by nonmetallic minerals and coal. However, intermodal traffic declined, potentially indicating weak consumer demand. Year-to-date, carload traffic has seen cumulative growth, while intermodal volume has decreased, suggesting downward pressure on the overall North American rail transport market. Key factors to watch include inflation, interest rates, geopolitical events, and the energy transition.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Mixed As Carloads Rise Containers Fall in July

US Rail Freight Mixed As Carloads Rise Containers Fall in July

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail carload traffic increased by 1.1% year-over-year in late July, while container volume decreased by 2.5% year-over-year. The carload traffic growth was mainly driven by automobiles, coal, and agricultural products, while the decline was influenced by metallic ores, petroleum, etc. The decrease in container volume may be related to port congestion, labor shortages, and slowing consumer demand. Businesses need to pay attention to data changes and adjust their supply chain strategies accordingly.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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Arrive Logistics TRN Boost Atlanta Freight Routes to Midwest West Coast

Arrive Logistics TRN Boost Atlanta Freight Routes to Midwest West Coast

Averitt Express, in collaboration with The Reliance Network (TRN), has launched an upgraded Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) service, significantly reducing transit times from Atlanta to the Midwest and West Coast. This partnership leverages TRN's robust regional LTL network, enhancing overall transportation efficiency and providing customers with faster and more reliable freight services. The collaboration aims to improve delivery speed and reliability for LTL shipments across key regions.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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Old Dominion Opens New Freight Center in Duluth Expands Minnesota Reach

Old Dominion Opens New Freight Center in Duluth Expands Minnesota Reach

ODFL expands its LTL transportation services by opening a new service center in Duluth, Minnesota. This strategic move aims to enhance operational efficiency and better serve Northern Minnesota and Northwestern Wisconsin. The new facility will allow ODFL to provide improved and more reliable LTL services to customers in the region, supporting their supply chain needs and contributing to economic growth in the area.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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Cass Freight Index Warns of Economic Slowdown As Shipping Slump Persists

Cass Freight Index Warns of Economic Slowdown As Shipping Slump Persists

The latest Cass Freight Index report indicates a continued decline in freight volume and expenditures in October, signaling a potential economic downturn. The report highlights multiple contributing factors, including weak demand, excess capacity, inventory buildup, and geopolitical risks. To navigate these challenges, businesses should refine operations, flexibly adjust capacity, strengthen risk management, and embrace digitalization. These strategies are crucial for adapting to the evolving market conditions and mitigating potential negative impacts from the predicted economic slowdown.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Freight Index Rises for Fifth Month Amid Economic Recovery Signs

US Freight Index Rises for Fifth Month Amid Economic Recovery Signs

The US Freight Transportation Services Index (TSI) has risen for five consecutive months, but different modes of transport show divergent performance, revealing underlying structural issues despite overall growth. This article provides an in-depth analysis of the January TSI, exploring the current situation and future prospects for trucking, rail, air, water, and pipeline transportation. It also offers actionable strategies for supply chain managers to navigate these complex dynamics and mitigate potential risks.

02/12/2026 Logistics
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North American Class 8 Truck Orders Drop Sharply Amid Freight Shift

North American Class 8 Truck Orders Drop Sharply Amid Freight Shift

North American Class 8 truck orders experienced a significant drop in November, raising concerns about the freight market outlook for 2024. Expert opinions are divided, ranging from views of a short-term correction to warnings of longer-term underlying issues. This article delves into the potential reasons behind the order decline and explores future market trends, offering coping strategies for transportation companies. The downturn fuels worries about a potential economic recession impacting the trucking industry and overall freight demand in the coming year.

02/03/2026 Logistics
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Canadian Railroads Compete for Kansas City Southern in Major Freight Shift

Canadian Railroads Compete for Kansas City Southern in Major Freight Shift

Canadian Pacific's bid to acquire Kansas City Southern aims to create a single North American rail network, reshaping freight transportation. This merger could expand service offerings but also raises concerns among shippers. The Surface Transportation Board (STB) decision will be crucial in determining the outcome and potential impacts on the supply chain and the competitive landscape of North American freight rail. The acquisition's success hinges on regulatory approval and addressing the concerns of various stakeholders.

02/03/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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