North American Rail Freight Gains Carloads but Loses Intermodal Traffic

North American Rail Freight Gains Carloads but Loses Intermodal Traffic

Recent data reveals a mixed picture for the US rail freight market. Carload traffic shows a slight increase, but performance varies across commodity groups. Intermodal volume, however, has declined. Year-to-date figures indicate overall growth, but the industry faces challenges including economic downturn and increased competition. Rail companies need to actively transform and upgrade their operations to navigate these headwinds and maintain competitiveness.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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North American Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Loses in Intermodal

North American Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Loses in Intermodal

Recent data shows a slight increase in U.S. railcar loadings, but a significant decline in intermodal traffic. Changes in commodity shipment volumes reflect economic restructuring, while supply chain bottlenecks and labor shortages remain challenges. Although year-to-date figures show growth, the risk of a future economic recession warrants caution. Businesses should be flexible, and government and industry associations need to strengthen cooperation to promote the sustainable development of the rail freight market. Monitoring these indicators is crucial for understanding the broader economic landscape and adapting to evolving market conditions.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Sees Mixed Results As Carloads Intermodal Dip

US Rail Freight Sees Mixed Results As Carloads Intermodal Dip

According to the Association of American Railroads, for the week ending October 25th, U.S. rail carload traffic decreased by 0.9% year-over-year, and intermodal traffic declined by 6.1%. Despite recent weakness, year-to-date carload and intermodal volumes are up 9.1% and 3.0% respectively, indicating a positive long-term trend. Looking ahead, the rail freight market faces challenges such as economic uncertainty and labor shortages, but also opportunities including infrastructure investments and a focus on sustainable development.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Networks Face Challenges and Opportunities in Intermodal Freight

US Rail Networks Face Challenges and Opportunities in Intermodal Freight

Larry Gross analyzes the intermodal transportation market, highlighting railroad cooperation as a significant trend. However, he cautions about the risks associated with mergers and acquisitions, as well as the impact of tariffs. Businesses should remain adaptable and flexible in response to these evolving market dynamics. The analysis emphasizes the importance of strategic planning and proactive measures to navigate the challenges and capitalize on the opportunities presented by the changing landscape of intermodal freight transportation.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Freight Rail and Intermodal Future Analyzed by Expert Tony Hatch

Freight Rail and Intermodal Future Analyzed by Expert Tony Hatch

This episode of the Logistics Management Podcast features freight rail and intermodal expert Tony Hatch, providing an in-depth analysis of the current market situation and future trends. Key topics covered include the US-Mexico market, rail policy, and shipper concerns. Through this interview, businesses can gain insights into market opportunities and challenges, enabling them to develop more effective business strategies and gain a competitive advantage. The discussion highlights critical factors impacting the industry and offers valuable perspectives for navigating the evolving landscape.

02/03/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Rail Freight Carloads Rise Intermodal Falls in Early November

US Rail Freight Carloads Rise Intermodal Falls in Early November

U.S. rail freight data for the week of November 8, 2025, reveals a 0.1% year-over-year increase in traditional carload traffic, but lower than the previous two weeks. Intermodal volume decreased by 8.7% compared to the same period last year. Year-to-date, carload traffic has increased by 1.8%, and intermodal volume by 2.5%. These figures reflect the complexities of the U.S. economy and the challenges and opportunities facing the rail freight market.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads but Loses in Intermodal

US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads but Loses in Intermodal

October 2025 US rail freight data shows a slight increase of 0.3% in carload traffic, but a 4.8% year-over-year decrease in intermodal volume. Shipments of nonmetallic minerals, metallic ores, and chemicals increased, while grain, miscellaneous, and coal shipments declined. Year-to-date, total carload traffic is up 2.0% and intermodal volume is up 3.2%. The data reflects economic structural changes and market uncertainties, requiring the rail industry to address challenges and seize opportunities.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Mixed Grain Metals Up Autos Intermodal Down

US Rail Freight Mixed Grain Metals Up Autos Intermodal Down

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight volume saw a slight year-over-year decrease in early November. However, grain and metals shipments bucked the trend, showing growth, while coal and automotive transport declined. Intermodal business also faced challenges. Year-to-date figures still indicate overall growth. Railroad companies need to adapt to market changes and focus on key factors such as economic growth, energy policies, supply chain management, technological innovation, and infrastructure investment to maintain a competitive edge.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads but Loses in Intermodal

US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads but Loses in Intermodal

For the week of November 29, 2025, U.S. rail freight showed a mixed performance. Carload traffic increased by 4.3% year-over-year, driven by higher demand for coal, nonmetallic minerals, and grain. Intermodal traffic decreased by 6.5% year-over-year, potentially due to port congestion and increased competition. Year-to-date figures indicate overall growth in rail freight, but structural adjustments pose ongoing challenges. The increase in carload traffic suggests strong demand in specific commodity sectors, while the decline in intermodal volume warrants further investigation into contributing factors.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Mixed Carloads Rise Intermodal Falls in January

US Rail Freight Mixed Carloads Rise Intermodal Falls in January

US rail freight performance diverged in January 2023: carload volume increased by 4.2% while intermodal container volume decreased by 7%. Key influencing factors include the overall economic climate, ongoing supply chain dynamics, and relevant policy decisions. The contrasting trends highlight the complex interplay of these elements impacting the rail freight sector during the specified period.

02/03/2026 Logistics
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