Inland Transport Key to Global Supply Chain Efficiency

Inland Transport Key to Global Supply Chain Efficiency

Inland transportation is a crucial link connecting maritime transport and land, encompassing various modes such as road, rail, inland waterway, and pipeline. It plays a key role in the supply chain, connecting production and consumption, reducing logistics costs, and promoting regional economic development. In the future, inland transportation will evolve towards intelligence, green practices, and collaboration. It is expected to leverage technology for optimization and sustainability, ensuring efficient and environmentally responsible movement of goods.

Innovations And Developments In Railway Freight Transport Ensuring The Transportation Of Daily Necessities

Innovations And Developments In Railway Freight Transport Ensuring The Transportation Of Daily Necessities

Recently, during the summer peak season, rail freight has intensified the transportation of thermal coal and essential goods. While increasing capacity, the railway department has also responded to the impact of heavy rainfall by enhancing the transportation efficiency of food and daily necessities. By innovating "iron-water combined transport" and optimizing maintenance processes, the railways have improved freight efficiency, ensured supply-demand stability, and provided strong support for economic prosperity and livelihood needs.

07/22/2025 Logistics
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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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US Freight Volumes Jump in May Amid Economic Recovery

US Freight Volumes Jump in May Amid Economic Recovery

According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, the Freight TSI increased by 0.1% in May compared to April, and surged 8.1% year-over-year, indicating a strong recovery in the freight industry. Growth was observed across trucking, rail, air, and waterborne transportation. However, levels remain below pre-pandemic figures, suggesting ongoing challenges and opportunities in the recovery process. Digital transformation and green development are emerging as key trends shaping the future of the logistics sector.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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US Freight Volume Reaches Record High Despite Economic Challenges

US Freight Volume Reaches Record High Despite Economic Challenges

The U.S. Freight Transportation Services Index (Freight TSI) reached a record high in June, demonstrating resilience amidst economic headwinds. Growth was driven by trucking, rail, air, and water transportation. However, economic indicators present a mixed picture. As a leading indicator, the Freight TSI reflects consumer demand and supply chain conditions, providing crucial insights for businesses and policymakers. It offers a valuable snapshot of the current economic landscape and potential future trends within the freight sector.

Global Ecommerce Logistics Key Trends and Strategies

Global Ecommerce Logistics Key Trends and Strategies

This paper delves into the factors influencing logistics timeliness in cross-border e-commerce. It compares the speed and cost of various channels, including commercial express, dedicated line logistics, postal packets/surface mail, and sea/rail transport. The paper proposes strategies to improve logistics efficiency, such as optimizing customs clearance, pre-stocking inventory, and selecting reliable partners. The aim is to help cross-border e-commerce sellers enhance their logistics efficiency and improve customer satisfaction.

US Regulators Warn of Rail Freight Delays Embargoes

US Regulators Warn of Rail Freight Delays Embargoes

Frequent rail embargoes in the United States, particularly those issued by Union Pacific Railroad, are raising concerns. Regulatory bodies are wary of their impact on agricultural transportation and may take action. There's a growing need for stronger oversight of rail companies, emphasizing their social responsibility alongside operational efficiency. The potential disruption to the supply chain caused by these embargoes necessitates a balanced approach that prioritizes both economic stability and the needs of essential industries like agriculture. Increased scrutiny and proactive measures are crucial to mitigate the negative consequences.

STB Cuts Fees to Ease Rail Freight Costs

STB Cuts Fees to Ease Rail Freight Costs

The U.S. Surface Transportation Board (STB) significantly reduced the filing fee for rail rate challenges from $20,000 to $350, aiming to lower the barrier for small and medium-sized businesses to seek redress. This is intended to incentivize railroads to improve service quality and reshape competition in the rail freight market. The move is expected to increase the number of complaints, pushing railroads to optimize operations. However, potential risks such as malicious complaints and retaliatory measures from railroads exist. Strengthening the regulatory system and mediation mechanisms will be crucial to address these challenges.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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STB Chair Urges Railroads to Focus on Service Not Profits

STB Chair Urges Railroads to Focus on Service Not Profits

U.S. Surface Transportation Board Member Robert Primus, at the NEARS conference, emphasized the urgent need to improve rail service levels. He pointed to prioritizing operating ratio (PSR), problems with PSR implementation, labor shortages, and insufficient investment benefit assessments as key contributing factors. From a data analyst's perspective, this article proposes solutions including quantitative assessment, PSR optimization, addressing labor issues, and evaluating investment benefits. The aim is to reshape rail service and enhance its competitiveness by focusing on service quality and long-term sustainability rather than solely on short-term cost reduction.

STB Chair Warns of US Freight Rail Service Crisis

STB Chair Warns of US Freight Rail Service Crisis

Surface Transportation Board (STB) Chairman Martin Oberman strongly criticized the “collapse” of US freight rail service and labor shortages at the RailTrends conference. He pointed out that railroad companies have significantly reduced staff in pursuit of profits, leading to train delays, embargoes, and other problems, causing significant losses to the US economy. Oberman argued that these actions prioritize profits over service. He called for strengthened regulation, increased investment, and encouragement of innovation to reshape the future of US freight rail. He emphasized the need for railroads to prioritize service and reliability alongside financial performance.