US Freight Volumes Drop Reflecting Broader Economic Slowdown

US Freight Volumes Drop Reflecting Broader Economic Slowdown

The latest Freight Transportation Services Index (Freight TSI) released by the Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS) shows a fourth consecutive month of decline in the U.S. freight market, raising concerns in the industry. The report reveals performance variations across different sectors and analyzes the macroeconomic context and long-term trends behind the decline. Facing a market with both challenges and opportunities, freight companies need to optimize supply chains, embrace technology, and focus on talent to maintain competitiveness.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Carload Rises As Intermodal Declines

US Rail Freight Carload Rises As Intermodal Declines

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight traffic showed divergence in the week ending August 14. Carload traffic increased by 5.7% year-over-year, driven by demand for commodities like coal and metallic ores. Intermodal traffic decreased by 3% year-over-year, constrained by port congestion and other factors. Year-to-date figures show carload and intermodal traffic up 9% and 14.6% respectively. Railroad companies need to adopt differentiated strategies to address the changing market dynamics.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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Rail Freight Industry Faces Challenges Amid Recovery Efforts

Rail Freight Industry Faces Challenges Amid Recovery Efforts

This paper delves into the challenges and opportunities facing the current rail freight and container intermodal transportation market. The impact of the pandemic and supply chain disruptions have led to decreased service levels and significant congestion. Despite strong demand, the road to recovery is fraught with uncertainty. Key issues such as technological innovation, railway mergers, pricing strategies, and future development trends are analyzed in detail, providing valuable insights for shippers and industry stakeholders.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Freight Volumes Drop Sharply Amid Winter Storms

US Freight Volumes Drop Sharply Amid Winter Storms

U.S. freight volume experienced a significant drop in February due to winter storms, decreasing by 3.6% month-over-month and 2.7% year-over-year. This represents the lowest level in recent years. The decline in freight activity could potentially hinder the pace of economic recovery. The impact of weather disruptions on supply chains and transportation networks is evident in this data, highlighting the vulnerability of the freight sector to external factors.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Rebounds Amid Mixed Growth Trends

US Rail Freight Rebounds Amid Mixed Growth Trends

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows US rail freight and intermodal volume increased year-over-year in March, partially due to a low base in the same period last year. Performance varied across segments, with intermodal showing strong growth. Looking ahead, challenges include the pandemic, supply chain bottlenecks, and industry restructuring. Opportunities arise from infrastructure investment, intermodal development, and technological innovation. Railroad companies need to respond proactively, and shippers should optimize their logistics strategies. The future of rail freight is intertwined with these evolving dynamics.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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Digital Logistics Networks Cut Freight Costs Boost Efficiency

Digital Logistics Networks Cut Freight Costs Boost Efficiency

This paper explores the role of digital logistics networks in addressing traditional freight challenges. It emphasizes how technological innovation enables the digitization and automation of freight processes, thereby enhancing transparency, capacity assurance, cost control, efficiency, and security. The paper argues that embracing digital logistics networks is a key strategy for businesses to succeed in a competitive market. By leveraging digital solutions, companies can optimize their supply chains and gain a significant advantage.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Rail Freight Market Faces Challenges and Opportunities FTR

Rail Freight Market Faces Challenges and Opportunities FTR

This analysis examines the US rail freight market, focusing on carload, intermodal transportation, the CN-KCS merger, Precision Scheduled Railroading (PSR), and policy impacts. The study highlights the need for rail companies to embrace innovation and transformation to effectively address the evolving challenges within the industry. Key areas of focus include adapting to changing market demands, optimizing operational efficiency, and navigating the regulatory landscape to maintain competitiveness and drive sustainable growth in the rail freight sector.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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LTL Freight Shifts to Strategic Supply Chain Partnerships

LTL Freight Shifts to Strategic Supply Chain Partnerships

This 'Logistics Management' podcast explores upgrading less-than-truckload (LTL) freight relationships from service providers to strategic partners. By fostering open communication, developing long-term strategies, sharing information, and building trust, shippers and carriers can achieve mutually beneficial outcomes. Old Dominion Freight Line shares its success story, highlighting the importance of strategic collaboration. The podcast aims to help businesses optimize their supply chains, reduce costs, and improve efficiency by transforming transactional LTL relationships into strategic partnerships.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Freight Industry Struggles With Extreme Weather Resilience

US Freight Industry Struggles With Extreme Weather Resilience

Extreme weather significantly impacts US freight logistics, causing delays, increased costs, and supply chain disruptions. Businesses are responding with strategies such as communication, route adjustments, resource optimization, and technology adoption. The retail sector, affected by demand surges and capacity constraints, needs to prepare in advance and adjust flexibly. Future resilience requires strengthening infrastructure, developing intermodal transportation, promoting green logistics, and fostering international cooperation. These measures will help mitigate the impact of extreme weather on the freight logistics and supply chain.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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Air Freight Gains Edge in Global Trade Efficiency

Air Freight Gains Edge in Global Trade Efficiency

This paper delves into the suitable scenarios for international air freight, including urgent goods, high-value fragile items, fresh and perishable products, small and lightweight cargo, and special goods. Through specific case studies, it illustrates the advantages of air transport in terms of timeliness, security, preservation, and flexibility. This helps businesses choose the most appropriate transportation method and enhance their competitiveness. The analysis provides insights into optimizing supply chains and leveraging air freight's benefits for specific business needs.

01/19/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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