US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Dips in Intermodal

US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Dips in Intermodal

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail carload traffic increased by 3.3% year-over-year in the week ending January 21st, while intermodal volume decreased by 6.7%. Cumulative data for the first three weeks of the year shows a 3% increase in carloads and an 8.4% decrease in intermodal volume. Overall, North American rail freight presents a mixed picture, with the market influenced by a combination of economic conditions, supply chains, and energy prices.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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Yellow Corp Bankruptcy Shakes Centuryold LTL Trucking Industry

Yellow Corp Bankruptcy Shakes Centuryold LTL Trucking Industry

The bankruptcy of Yellow Corp., the fifth-largest trucking company in the US, marks the fall of a century-old business, revealing a confluence of mismanagement, labor union conflicts, and market competition. This bankruptcy will reshape the less-than-truckload (LTL) market landscape, potentially leading to increased freight rates, but with limited impact on the overall supply chain. Going forward, market competition will intensify, with efficiency, service quality, and technological innovation becoming crucial factors for success.

US and India Strengthen Trade As Trump Lifts Russian Oil Tariffs

US and India Strengthen Trade As Trump Lifts Russian Oil Tariffs

The Trump administration has eliminated the 25% tariff on Indian imports of Russian oil, marking the first implemented measure of a US-India trade agreement. In return, India has pledged to cease purchasing Russian oil, increase energy imports from the United States, and procure $500 billion worth of American goods. This initiative aims to strengthen US-India cooperation, reshape the global energy supply chain, and potentially significantly alter the trade landscape between the two countries over the next decade.

US Rail Freight Intermodal Gains Offset Coal Decline

US Rail Freight Intermodal Gains Offset Coal Decline

The U.S. rail freight market showed a mixed picture for the week ending February 10th. Intermodal traffic performed strongly with an 11.1% year-over-year increase, while traditional rail carloads declined by 2.5%. Coal shipments continued to be weak, decreasing by 7,264 carloads year-over-year. Year-to-date figures reveal a 6.5% rise in intermodal volume and a 6.4% drop in rail carloads, reflecting the evolving U.S. economic structure and changes in supply chain patterns.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Volumes Decline in Early May

US Rail Freight Volumes Decline in Early May

U.S. rail freight volume declined year-over-year in the first week of May, with varying performance across different categories. Year-to-date, carload traffic saw a slight increase, while intermodal traffic experienced a significant decrease. North American rail freight is facing downward pressure. The overall decline reflects potential challenges in the supply chain and broader economic activity. Monitoring these trends is crucial for understanding the health of the freight transportation sector and its impact on the wider economy.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Rises Slightly As Intermodal Declines

US Rail Freight Rises Slightly As Intermodal Declines

According to the Association of American Railroads, for the week ending August 20, U.S. rail carloads increased by 2.9% year-over-year, while intermodal volume decreased by 2.4%. Year-to-date carloads are roughly flat compared to last year, but intermodal volume is down 5.5%. Overall, North American rail freight has seen slight growth, but continues to face challenges from global economic slowdown and supply chain disruptions. Railroad companies need to innovate to address these challenges and seize opportunities.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Dips in Container Volume

US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Dips in Container Volume

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows a significant recent increase in U.S. rail carload traffic, primarily driven by coal and minerals. Container traffic, however, has slightly decreased, potentially due to global supply chain challenges. Year-to-date, overall freight volume remains on a downward trend. North American rail performance generally surpasses that of the U.S., with Mexico experiencing strong growth. The rail freight market faces a mixed landscape of challenges and opportunities moving forward.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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Logistics Firms Prepare As Hurricane Idalia Nears

Logistics Firms Prepare As Hurricane Idalia Nears

As Hurricane Idalia approaches, ALAN's Executive Director offers five key recommendations for logistics companies to mitigate disaster losses: prioritize personnel safety, leverage ALAN's Supply Chain Intelligence Center for up-to-date information, participate in rescue efforts through ALAN's Disaster Micro-site, proactively offer resource support, and avoid unauthorized actions. Recommended donation methods are also provided. This aims to help logistics companies effectively respond to the hurricane, ensure operational continuity, and support disaster relief efforts in the affected areas.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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Singapore Port Reforms Ease Global Shipping Delays

Singapore Port Reforms Ease Global Shipping Delays

Singapore has expedited the opening of its new mega-port storage area to alleviate global supply chain congestion. With efficient operations and agile responsiveness, Singapore is becoming a preferred port for shipping companies to catch up on schedules. The port plans to increase its annual handling capacity to 65 million TEUs by 2040, reinforcing its position as a leading global shipping hub. This proactive approach aims to mitigate disruptions and ensure smoother flow of goods amidst ongoing global challenges.

Shanghai Port Retains Title As Worlds Busiest for 16th Year

Shanghai Port Retains Title As Worlds Busiest for 16th Year

Shanghai Port retained its position as the world's busiest container port for the 16th consecutive year, handling 55.06 million TEUs, a 6.9% year-on-year increase. By implementing 'water-to-water' transshipment programs, technological innovations, and strategic partnerships, Shanghai Port effectively navigated the complex global trade environment. This solidified its role as a critical node in the global supply chain. The port is committed to further increasing its international transit cargo share and strengthening hub resilience.

02/03/2026 Logistics
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