North Americas Container Shipping Industry Faces Five Key Trends

North Americas Container Shipping Industry Faces Five Key Trends

A JLL research report reveals five transformative trends in North American container shipping: the Panama Canal expansion fuels East Coast port growth, boosting industrial real estate demand. Comprehensive port infrastructure upgrades are underway, shipping alliances are reshaping the industry, and e-commerce is revolutionizing supply chains. Railroad transportation faces a pivotal transition. Businesses must adapt their supply chain strategies accordingly to navigate these evolving dynamics and capitalize on emerging opportunities in the container shipping and industrial real estate sectors.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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North American Intermodal Growth Rises on Domestic Container Demand

North American Intermodal Growth Rises on Domestic Container Demand

The Intermodal Association of North America (IANA) reports a 4.5% year-over-year increase in North American intermodal volume in Q1, with domestic container shipments leading the growth. Lower fuel costs, improved service, and railway investments are key drivers. Experts note that transloading and base effects also contribute. International container growth exceeded expectations, while trailer volume decline narrowed. Intermodal marketing companies saw revenue growth despite lower loadings. The outlook for the intermodal market is positive, suggesting opportunities for businesses to capitalize on the momentum.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Carloads Rise As Container Volumes Decline

US Rail Freight Carloads Rise As Container Volumes Decline

According to the Association of American Railroads, for the week ending January 17th, U.S. rail carload traffic increased by 0.3% year-over-year, while container traffic decreased by 2.4%. Grain and chemical shipments were the primary drivers of carload growth. The decline in container traffic may indicate weakening consumer demand. The full-year trend remains to be seen, and the rail freight market faces both challenges and opportunities.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Sees Container Growth Offset Coal Decline

US Rail Freight Sees Container Growth Offset Coal Decline

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight performance in October was mixed. Container traffic increased year-over-year, reaching a 28-month high, driven by economic resilience and supply chain optimization. However, coal transportation declined, dragging down overall carload volume. Year-to-date figures also show a decrease in container traffic, influenced by the energy transition. The Panama Canal congestion may boost demand for rail container transport. The rail freight market faces both opportunities and challenges in the future.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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US Container Imports Near Record Amid Tariffs Seasonal Demand

US Container Imports Near Record Amid Tariffs Seasonal Demand

Descartes' Global Shipping Report indicates that U.S. container imports reached the second-highest level in history in August, influenced by seasonal demand and tariff policies. The proportion of imports from China decreased, and port shares on the East and West Coasts diverged. Businesses should diversify their supply chains, optimize inventory management, strengthen logistics partnerships, and closely monitor policy changes to address these challenges.

01/30/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Sees Carload Drop Amid Container Growth

US Rail Freight Sees Carload Drop Amid Container Growth

The US rail freight market presents a mixed picture: traditional carload freight volumes have declined sharply, down 13.6% year-over-year, while container traffic has bucked the trend, increasing by 2.3%. Key drivers include economic restructuring, consumption upgrades, changes in global trade patterns, energy structure adjustments, and the rise of e-commerce. Railway companies need to actively embrace change by expanding container business, optimizing carload freight operations, and strengthening technological innovation.

01/30/2026 Logistics
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Global Trade Guide Choosing the Right 40foot Shipping Container

Global Trade Guide Choosing the Right 40foot Shipping Container

This article provides an in-depth analysis of the dimensions, types, load capacity limits, and selection techniques for 40ft containers. It also briefly analyzes the price calculation of high-density storage cabinets. The aim is to help businesses better manage cargo transportation, reduce logistics costs, and improve operational efficiency. Understanding the specifics of 40ft containers is crucial for optimizing sea freight and ensuring efficient supply chain management. This knowledge empowers businesses to make informed decisions regarding container selection and utilization.

01/30/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Global Container Shipping Adapts FCL LCL Strategies for Cargo

Global Container Shipping Adapts FCL LCL Strategies for Cargo

This article provides an in-depth analysis of container shipping, focusing on the two main loading methods: Full Container Load (FCL) and Less than Container Load (LCL). It also details the loading strategies and precautions for special cargo, such as overweight, refrigerated, and dangerous goods. This aims to offer a comprehensive container shipping loading guide for foreign trade practitioners, helping them achieve efficient, economical, and safe cargo transportation in international trade.

02/02/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Key Strategies for Efficient Full Container Load FCL Shipping

Key Strategies for Efficient Full Container Load FCL Shipping

This article delves into route selection (direct, transshipment, fast vessel) and the detailed operation process (booking, container preparation, customs declaration, loading, transportation, and cargo pickup) for FCL shipping. It provides a practical guide to help companies safely and efficiently transport goods in international trade, achieving cost control and risk prevention. The guide aims to optimize the shipping process, ensuring smooth and secure delivery of goods while minimizing potential issues and maximizing efficiency.

02/02/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Shipping Industry Adapts Container Leasing and Yard Management Strategies

Shipping Industry Adapts Container Leasing and Yard Management Strategies

This article provides a comprehensive guide to shipping container selection, leasing, and depot handover, helping businesses optimize logistics and achieve cost reduction and efficiency. It covers common container types, leasing options, cost structures, and depot handover processes and considerations. The aim is to empower businesses to navigate international trade more effectively. This guide helps businesses understand the nuances of container selection based on their specific needs, choose the most suitable leasing arrangement, and efficiently manage the container handover process at the depot, ensuring smooth operations and minimizing potential delays or unexpected costs.

02/02/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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