US Rail Freight Carloads Drop Intermodal Rises Slightly

US Rail Freight Carloads Drop Intermodal Rises Slightly

For the week ending November 4, 2023, U.S. rail freight showed mixed results. Carload traffic decreased by 5.2% year-over-year, but the decline narrowed, with gains in categories like automotive, agricultural products, and petroleum. Intermodal volume increased by 1.5% year-over-year. Year-to-date figures indicate carload traffic is roughly flat compared to the same period last year, while intermodal volume is down 7.0%. The rail freight market faces both challenges and opportunities moving forward.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Rebounds Despite Industry Challenges

US Rail Freight Rebounds Despite Industry Challenges

US rail freight growth slowed in late July, with increases in commodities like coal offset by declines in automobiles. Intermodal transportation remained robust but faced congestion. The market presents both opportunities and challenges, requiring collaboration and innovation to navigate. Overall freight volume saw modest gains, reflecting the current state of the US economy and the ongoing shifts in consumer demand and supply chain dynamics. Further monitoring of these trends is crucial for understanding future economic performance.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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Kimberlyclark Saves Millions with AI Supply Chain Overhaul

Kimberlyclark Saves Millions with AI Supply Chain Overhaul

Kimberly-Clark has undergone a digital transformation, leveraging AI to optimize its logistics and transportation network, resulting in significant cost reduction and efficiency gains. Partnering with ProvisionAI, Kimberly-Clark successfully deployed the LevelLoad platform, enabling intelligent management of order fulfillment and transportation, saving millions of dollars annually and reducing carbon emissions. This provides a valuable example for supply chain digital transformation. The project's success demonstrates the power of AI in streamlining logistics and creating a more sustainable supply chain.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Rail Freight Stagnates As Intermodal Declines

US Rail Freight Stagnates As Intermodal Declines

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail carload traffic was largely flat for the week ending June 28th, while intermodal traffic saw a slight decrease. Performance varied across sectors, with gains in grain and automotive shipments offset by declines in metals and coal. Cumulative data for the first 26 weeks of the year indicates continued growth in overall freight volume. However, the industry faces ongoing challenges related to macroeconomic conditions, industry competition, and infrastructure limitations.

01/20/2026 Logistics
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Retail Supply Chains Boost Profits with Speed Data

Retail Supply Chains Boost Profits with Speed Data

How can retailers boost profits through an efficient supply chain? The case of Pier 1 Imports demonstrates the critical importance of speed. Reducing time to market, minimizing product handling, and adapting flexibly to market changes are key elements in improving supply chain efficiency. Looking ahead, digitalization, intelligent automation, and collaboration will be the defining trends in supply chain development. By focusing on these areas, retailers can optimize their operations and achieve significant gains in both efficiency and profitability.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Russian Ecommerce Rivals Ozon Wildberries Adopt Divergent Strategies

Russian Ecommerce Rivals Ozon Wildberries Adopt Divergent Strategies

The Russian e-commerce market sees Ozon tightening return policies and Wildberries optimizing after-sales service. Yandex reveals emerging trends while the government strengthens regulations. The 'Honest Label' initiative gains traction, protecting consumer rights. Notably, the online market for artificial Christmas trees is booming. These shifts reflect evolving consumer behavior and a maturing e-commerce landscape in Russia, demanding businesses adapt their strategies to navigate the changing regulatory environment and meet consumer expectations for transparency and service quality.

02/12/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Rail Freight Rises Slightly on Intermodal Demand

US Rail Freight Rises Slightly on Intermodal Demand

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight traffic experienced a slight increase in late September. Carload traffic rose by 0.9% year-over-year, while intermodal traffic increased by 1.1%. Performance varied across commodity categories, with gains in nonmetallic minerals, grain, and motor vehicle parts. Coal, petroleum, and metallic ores saw declines. Year-to-date figures show growth in both carload and intermodal traffic. However, the market continues to face challenges including energy transition and technological innovation.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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Datadriven Strategies Tackle Freight Market Volatility

Datadriven Strategies Tackle Freight Market Volatility

The freight market is volatile, and 2020 may see further tightening. The Transfix white paper, 'Get Ahead,' uses data analysis and shipper surveys to reveal market trends and response strategies. It emphasizes leveraging data to improve market visibility and drawing on historical experience to help shippers maintain competitiveness and achieve cost reduction and efficiency gains amidst market fluctuations. The white paper provides actionable insights for shippers to navigate the changing landscape and optimize their logistics operations.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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April Freight Data Signals Presummer Market Shift

April Freight Data Signals Presummer Market Shift

April's US spot truckload market data reveals a stable market with potential opportunities and challenges. Experts analyze the reasons behind the market's perceived 'freeze' and propose strategies. They recommend closely monitoring market dynamics, flexibly adjusting capacity, and seizing the last opportunities before the summer peak season. The analysis emphasizes proactive adaptation to navigate the current market conditions and maximize potential gains in a relatively stagnant environment. Understanding these nuances is crucial for success in the current freight landscape.

01/22/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Nonmanufacturing Activity Hits Record High in August ISM

US Nonmanufacturing Activity Hits Record High in August ISM

The Institute for Supply Management (ISM) reported strong U.S. non-manufacturing activity in August, with the Non-Manufacturing Index (NMI) reaching 59.6, a historical high. Key indicators like business activity/production, new orders, and employment all improved, signaling positive momentum for U.S. economic growth. Analysts anticipate continued moderate economic expansion in the U.S., with the non-manufacturing sector expected to maintain its strong performance. The robust NMI suggests resilience and potential for further gains in the service-based economy.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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