Railroads Debate Passing Acquisition Costs to Shippers

Railroads Debate Passing Acquisition Costs to Shippers

A dispute arose between US rail freight companies and BNSF Railway regarding whether an acquisition premium should be included in freight rate costs. Freight companies are concerned about rising rates, while BNSF emphasizes market-based pricing. The STB's ruling will impact rail transportation pricing and market competition. The core issue revolves around how the acquisition cost of BNSF by Berkshire Hathaway should be factored into the rates charged to customers. This decision will set a precedent for future acquisitions and their impact on the rail freight industry.

01/22/2026 Logistics
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Bnsfs 15B Barstow Hub to Transform US Supply Chains

Bnsfs 15B Barstow Hub to Transform US Supply Chains

BNSF Railway is investing $1.5 billion in the Barstow International Gateway in Southern California to improve U.S. supply chain efficiency, reduce port congestion, and create jobs. This facility will enable the direct transfer of goods between ships and trains, enhancing overall logistics efficiency. It aims to streamline the flow of goods and alleviate bottlenecks within the supply chain by providing a seamless intermodal connection. The project represents a significant investment in infrastructure designed to modernize and optimize the movement of freight across the country.

01/20/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Dips in Intermodal

US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Dips in Intermodal

Recent data reveals a mixed performance in the US rail freight market. Carload traffic saw a slight increase, but with significant structural divergence, with nonmetallic minerals outperforming while grains declined. Intermodal volume decreased, potentially due to cooling consumption and inventory adjustments. Year-to-date figures remain positive, but railway companies need to adapt to market changes and seize opportunities. The uneven performance highlights the need for strategic adjustments to navigate the evolving economic landscape and capitalize on growth areas within the rail freight sector.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Labor Talks Halt After Signal Workers Reject Deal

US Rail Labor Talks Halt After Signal Workers Reject Deal

The Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen (BRS) rejected a tentative labor agreement with railway companies, pushing labor negotiations back into stalemate. This rejection reflects union discontent with wages, benefits, and working conditions, potentially impacting the US logistics industry. This article analyzes the background of the event, voting results, industry perspectives, and possible response strategies, exploring industry challenges under labor-management games. The deadlock raises concerns about potential disruptions to freight transport and the broader economy, highlighting the complexities of balancing worker demands with industry needs.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Carloads Drop Intermodal Rises Slightly

US Rail Freight Carloads Drop Intermodal Rises Slightly

According to the Association of American Railroads, for the week ending November 4th, U.S. rail carload traffic decreased by 5.2% year-over-year, while intermodal volume increased by 1.5%. Year-to-date, carload traffic is roughly flat, while intermodal volume is down 7%. The market shows a divergent trend. Influenced by various factors, railway companies need to pay close attention to market dynamics and adjust their strategies accordingly. This highlights the contrasting performance between traditional rail freight and intermodal transport within the current economic landscape.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Volumes Jump Amid Economic Rebound

US Rail Freight Volumes Jump Amid Economic Rebound

US rail freight and intermodal volumes continue to rise, mirroring economic recovery. Significant increases are seen in coal and metallic ores, while automotive parts shipments have declined. Attention must be paid to uncertainties arising from geopolitical risks such as the pandemic, inflation, and labor shortages. To address challenges and promote sustainable growth, railway companies should focus on improving efficiency, investing in infrastructure, and diversifying services. The sustained growth in rail freight indicates a positive trend, but vigilance regarding external factors is crucial for continued success.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Volumes Decline Amid Demand Concerns

US Rail Freight Volumes Decline Amid Demand Concerns

Recent data shows a year-over-year decline in both U.S. rail freight and intermodal volumes, though not across all commodity categories. Multiple factors contribute to this downturn, including slowing economic growth, supply chain disruptions, energy transition, increased competition, high inflation, and geopolitical risks. To address these challenges and seize opportunities, railway companies need to improve efficiency, expand services, embrace innovation, focus on sustainability, and strengthen collaboration. The industry must adapt to navigate the evolving landscape and maintain its vital role in the economy.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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STB Authorization Act Advances Rail Freight Rate Reform

STB Authorization Act Advances Rail Freight Rate Reform

The American Rail Customers Coalition is actively promoting the implementation of the Surface Transportation Board (STB) Reauthorization Act. This aims to empower the STB to resolve rail freight rate disputes more efficiently and fairly, and to promote free market reforms within the rail industry. The coalition advocates for adequate funding for the STB and urges the immediate implementation of reform measures to balance the interests of railway companies and freight shippers. The goal is to create a more equitable and competitive rail transportation environment for all stakeholders.

02/12/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Chinese Beer Gains Dominance in Russian Market

Chinese Beer Gains Dominance in Russian Market

In August of this year, China's beer exports to Russia reached record highs in both value and volume, making Russia the largest importer of Chinese beer. Chinese beer quickly filled the market space left by the withdrawal of international beer giants, leveraging its production capacity, product diversity, and price advantages. Convenient logistics channels like the China-Europe Railway Express and local currency settlement also contributed. The high growth trend is expected to continue in the short term, but potential risks need to be monitored.

01/27/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Chicago Rail Plan Stalled Over Funding Opposition

Chicago Rail Plan Stalled Over Funding Opposition

The STB rejected the GLBT's application for a new railway bypassing Chicago, citing insufficient funding, lack of support, and resident opposition. This decision leaves Chicago's rail congestion unresolved in the short term, posing ongoing challenges to the supply chain. The proposed project aimed to alleviate bottlenecks, but its failure to secure adequate financial backing and community buy-in proved fatal. The rejection underscores the complexities of infrastructure development and its impact on national freight movement. Alternative solutions for mitigating Chicago's rail congestion are now urgently needed.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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