North American Rail Freight Carloads Rise Intermodal Declines

North American Rail Freight Carloads Rise Intermodal Declines

For the week ending November 8, 2025, U.S. rail carload traffic saw a slight increase of 0.1%, while intermodal units decreased by 8.7% year-over-year. Year-to-date figures show carloads and intermodal up 1.8% and 2.5% respectively, but the single-week data reflects pressures from economic slowdown, supply chain challenges, and energy transition. Rail freight needs to embrace innovation and strengthen collaboration to navigate these challenges and seize growth opportunities.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Intermodal Volumes Decline in Late September

US Rail Freight Intermodal Volumes Decline in Late September

For the week ending September 20, 2025, US rail freight volume decreased by 1.8% year-over-year, and intermodal volume decreased by 2.5%. Grain and metallic ores shipments increased, while coal, miscellaneous carloads, and nonmetallic minerals declined. Despite the recent downturn, year-to-date rail freight volume is up 2.2%, and intermodal volume is up 3.6% compared to 2024. Macroeconomic conditions, industry-specific factors, and supply chain issues can all influence rail transport volumes.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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Global Air Freight Fuel Surcharges A Costsaving Guide

Global Air Freight Fuel Surcharges A Costsaving Guide

International air freight fuel surcharge calculations are complex, primarily based on chargeable weight or a percentage of the base freight rate. Additional charges may apply in special circumstances, such as peak seasons or the use of sustainable aviation fuel. Understanding these calculation methods helps foreign trade and cross-border e-commerce sellers choose more economical shipping solutions. This knowledge allows businesses to better manage their logistics costs and optimize their supply chain for international shipments.

02/04/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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TMS Adoption Boosts Logistics Efficiency Reduces Costs

TMS Adoption Boosts Logistics Efficiency Reduces Costs

Transportation Management Systems (TMS) are crucial for improving logistics efficiency and reducing costs. By connecting to a global carrier network, simplifying cross-border compliance, and providing data analytics, TMS helps businesses optimize transportation processes, improve customer satisfaction, and increase profitability. In today's competitive market, adopting a TMS early is a smart move. It streamlines operations, provides real-time visibility, and empowers informed decision-making, ultimately leading to a more agile and cost-effective supply chain.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Container Imports Surge on Strong China Demand Descartes

US Container Imports Surge on Strong China Demand Descartes

A recent Descartes report reveals a significant increase in total U.S. container imports, driven by rising imports from China. January saw a 7.9% month-over-month and 9.9% year-over-year increase in U.S. import container volume. A 14.9% surge in exports from China to the U.S. was a key contributor. The report also highlights ongoing challenges to the global supply chain, including the Panama Canal drought and Middle East conflicts, both impacting transit times.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Businesses Consumers Hit Hard by Trade War Tariffs

US Businesses Consumers Hit Hard by Trade War Tariffs

The "Tariffs Damage America's Heartland" report reveals that the trade war has cost U.S. consumers and businesses an additional $38 billion in tariffs. Tariffs not only increase prices and hurt exports, but also lead to supply chain reshaping and investment decision disruptions. Experts call for resolving trade disputes through dialogue and negotiation to maintain global economic stability. The report highlights the significant economic costs and negative consequences of the trade war on the American economy.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Spacebased Solar Power Advances Commercial Space Energy

Spacebased Solar Power Advances Commercial Space Energy

The flourishing commercial spaceflight industry faces energy supply bottlenecks. Space solar power (SSP) re-emerges as a solution, with its core value lying in maximizing on-orbit commercial value per unit launch mass. This analysis examines the SSP industry chain, covering upstream material innovation, midstream system integration, and downstream demand. It also explores commercialization pathways and risks, highlighting that those who control the orbital energy system will command the future space economy.

02/05/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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ERP System Boosts Outdoor Sports Brands Market Growth

ERP System Boosts Outdoor Sports Brands Market Growth

A sports and outdoor ERP system integrates management processes, optimizing product, inventory, order, finance, supply chain, and customer relationship management. This integration enhances efficiency and reduces costs. It provides a centralized platform for managing all aspects of the business, from product development to customer service. By streamlining operations and improving visibility, the system helps businesses make better decisions and improve their bottom line. Ultimately, this leads to increased profitability and customer satisfaction.

02/05/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Guide to Streamlining B2B Sourcing in China

Guide to Streamlining B2B Sourcing in China

This article provides a guide to B2B procurement in China, covering stages like needs definition, platform selection, sample evaluation, terms negotiation, quality verification, and shipment acceptance. It emphasizes precise requirements, quality control, and risk management. The aim is to help businesses efficiently and safely procure goods from Chinese manufacturers, enhancing their supply chain competitiveness. This guide provides practical steps to ensure a successful procurement process, mitigating potential challenges and optimizing outcomes when sourcing from China.

02/05/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Costcocom Expands Access for Chinese Sellers Market Entry Guide

Costcocom Expands Access for Chinese Sellers Market Entry Guide

This article provides an in-depth analysis of the entry requirements, logistics fulfillment models, operational best practices, and frequently asked questions for Chinese sellers onboarding to Costco.com, the US membership-based retail platform. It emphasizes the importance of compliance certification, supply chain management, and data-driven strategies. The guide offers corresponding solutions to common challenges, aiming to help Chinese sellers successfully tap into the potential of Costco.com and achieve growth in the US market.

02/05/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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