US Rail Freight Declines in May Amid Coal Chemical Gains

US Rail Freight Declines in May Amid Coal Chemical Gains

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows that U.S. rail freight and intermodal traffic declined year-over-year in late May, though coal and chemical shipments bucked the trend with gains. Year-to-date, freight traffic saw a slight increase, while intermodal continued its decline. Supply chain managers should pay attention to factors such as inflation and geopolitical risks, and strengthen demand forecasting and diversify transportation channels to mitigate potential disruptions.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Sees Chemical Gains Grain Drops in March

US Rail Freight Sees Chemical Gains Grain Drops in March

According to data from the Association of American Railroads (AAR), U.S. rail freight in March showed a mixed picture. Chemical shipments saw a significant increase, while grain and petroleum shipments declined. Intermodal traffic remained sluggish. An AAR executive stated that the economic direction is unclear, and uncertainty persists. Railway companies need to pay close attention to economic trends and seize market opportunities. Overall, the rail freight data reflects the current ambiguity and volatility within the broader economy.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Volumes Fluctuate in July Amid Economic Concerns

US Rail Freight Volumes Fluctuate in July Amid Economic Concerns

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows a divergence in US rail freight in July. Strong coal demand drove a slight overall increase in freight volume, but excluding coal, freight actually declined. Intermodal traffic also decreased year-over-year. This data reflects the challenges facing the US economic recovery, with varying performance across industries. A comprehensive analysis requires considering multiple factors.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Growth Uneven in May Key Sectors Gain

US Rail Freight Growth Uneven in May Key Sectors Gain

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail traffic and intermodal volumes declined year-over-year in May, although commodities like crushed stone, motor vehicles, and food products experienced growth. The AAR suggests the data reflects a mixed economic picture. Overall rail traffic volumes edged up slightly in the first five months, while intermodal volumes decreased. Future rail freight development hinges on macroeconomic conditions, supply chains, geopolitical factors, and industry transformation. The performance of specific sectors highlights the nuanced nature of the current economic environment.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Volumes Reflect Mixed Economic Signals in May

US Rail Freight Volumes Reflect Mixed Economic Signals in May

US rail freight volumes decreased overall in May, but some commodities saw growth, reflecting a mixed economic picture. Carload traffic experienced a slight increase in the first five months of the year, while intermodal shipments declined. These trends provide insights into the current state of the supply chain and broader economic activity, highlighting both areas of resilience and ongoing challenges within the freight transportation sector.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Volumes Decline in June Amid Slumping Demand

US Rail Freight Volumes Decline in June Amid Slumping Demand

US rail freight volume declined year-over-year in June, with intermodal traffic experiencing a significant drop. While some categories like chemicals saw growth, others such as coal decreased. Cumulative freight volume saw a slight decrease, while intermodal volume declined substantially, influenced by economic factors. The overall downturn reflects broader economic trends and challenges within the supply chain impacting rail transportation.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Volumes Decline in August Amid Industry Challenges

US Rail Freight Volumes Decline in August Amid Industry Challenges

Data from the Association of American Railroads indicates that U.S. rail freight and intermodal volumes declined year-over-year in the first week of August. Performance varied across sectors, with growth in grain and nonmetallic minerals, while miscellaneous carloads, chemicals, and coal declined. Intermodal transportation faces greater challenges. The overall North American region experienced a synchronized decline. Companies need to optimize operations, expand services, strengthen cooperation, pay attention to market changes, and invest in infrastructure to address challenges and seize opportunities.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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YRC Worldwide Rebrands to YRC Freight in LTL Industry Shift

YRC Worldwide Rebrands to YRC Freight in LTL Industry Shift

YRC Worldwide rebranded its largest subsidiary, YRC, as YRC Freight, aiming to return to its freight roots and strengthen its core competencies. This initiative encompasses talent development, equipment upgrades, and facility renovations, all designed to enhance brand recognition and cohesion. Facing increased competition in the LTL industry, YRC Freight is pursuing strategic upgrades to capitalize on e-commerce-driven growth and technological innovation, striving to stand out in the market. The rebranding signals a commitment to improved service and a renewed focus on customer needs within the evolving freight landscape.

02/11/2026 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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US Rail Freight Volumes Rebound in March Amid Economic Recovery

US Rail Freight Volumes Rebound in March Amid Economic Recovery

According to the Association of American Railroads, for the week ending March 15th, U.S. rail freight traffic increased by 3.1% year-over-year, and intermodal traffic rose by 8.8%. While year-to-date total freight volume slightly decreased, intermodal growth remains robust. This data suggests a steady economic recovery in the U.S. The rail transport industry is actively embracing digital transformation and green, sustainable development practices.

02/03/2026 Logistics
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