US Rail Freight Mixed Carloads Rise Intermodal Falls

US Rail Freight Mixed Carloads Rise Intermodal Falls

The US rail freight market is showing a diverging trend: carload traffic is slightly increasing, while intermodal volume continues to decline. Coal and grain shipments are driving the growth in carload traffic, but slowing consumer demand and supply chain bottlenecks are contributing to the decrease in intermodal volume. Year-to-date data indicates that the decline in intermodal transportation is a long-term trend. Rail freight data reflects structural changes in the economy and provides valuable reference for business and government decision-making.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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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 (AAR), U.S. rail carload traffic increased by 1.1% year-over-year in late July, while intermodal volume decreased by 2.5%. Carload growth was driven by commodities like motor vehicles & parts, coal, and farm products, while metallic ores, petroleum products, and miscellaneous carloads declined. Overall North American rail traffic showed a similar trend, presenting both challenges and opportunities. Supply chain optimization, technological innovation, and sustainable development will be crucial for the future of rail freight.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Volumes Drop Sharply in Midjuly

US Rail Freight Volumes Drop Sharply in Midjuly

Data from the Association of American Railroads indicates a year-over-year decrease in U.S. rail freight and intermodal volume for the week ending July 16th. Among commodity segments, nonmetallic minerals, farm products, and motor vehicle parts & equipment saw growth, while coal, miscellaneous carloads, and grain declined. Year-to-date figures also reflect this downward trend. The analysis points to factors such as economic slowdown, supply chain disruptions, and competition from trucking. Strategies for improvement include enhancing operational efficiency and expanding service offerings.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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ATA Economist Predicts Freight Industry Trends at RILA Conference

ATA Economist Predicts Freight Industry Trends at RILA Conference

Bob Costello, Chief Economist at the American Trucking Associations, provided an in-depth analysis of the freight economic outlook at the RILA Retail Supply Chain Conference. He forecasts an economic slowdown rather than a recession in the near term, but a recession is inevitable, potentially in 2021. Despite challenges in the housing market, economic fundamentals remain solid, with strong manufacturing output. Long-term driver compensation has lagged, and increasing driver pay is crucial for the industry's sustainability and attracting new talent.

02/12/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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UK Nigeria Boost Trade Via Customs Partnership

UK Nigeria Boost Trade Via Customs Partnership

The UK's HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) collaborated with the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) to support the NCS in developing an AEO program compliant with WCO SAFE standards through AEO program benchmarking. This collaboration aims to strengthen trade partnerships between the two countries, enhance supply chain security and efficiency, and achieve trade facilitation, injecting new impetus into global trade development. The partnership leverages HMRC's experience to help NCS establish a robust and effective AEO program, ultimately fostering smoother and more secure international trade flows.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Crossborder Ecommerce Focuses on Speed Cost and Compliance

Crossborder Ecommerce Focuses on Speed Cost and Compliance

This article provides a comprehensive analysis of key aspects in cross-border e-commerce logistics, covering air and sea freight dedicated line options, popular route logistics costs, and transportation guidelines for special goods such as food, cosmetics, toys, and luxury items. It helps you understand how to safely, quickly, and compliantly deliver goods globally, enabling you to thrive in the cross-border e-commerce market. Learn how to navigate international shipping regulations and optimize your supply chain for efficient and cost-effective delivery.

01/20/2026 Logistics
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White House Advisor Proposes Dual Strategy for Growth Inflation Control

White House Advisor Proposes Dual Strategy for Growth Inflation Control

Jared Bernstein, Chairman of the Council of Economic Advisers, interprets the current US economic situation from a 'freight perspective,' emphasizing a dual-engine strategy of 'stable growth and controlled inflation.' He focuses on trade structure, consumer spending, and supply chain resilience. While cautiously optimistic about the future of the US economy, he believes that the government, businesses, and the public must work together to achieve long-term economic prosperity. The administration is focused on mitigating inflation while maintaining a strong job market.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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LA Long Beach Ports See Throughput Drop Amid Challenges

LA Long Beach Ports See Throughput Drop Amid Challenges

Los Angeles and Long Beach ports experienced a significant drop in February throughput due to a combination of factors including a global trade slowdown, the Lunar New Year holiday, and inventory backlogs. Despite these challenges, there is potential for future growth as Chinese production recovers and port infrastructure improves. Key to this growth is resolving labor negotiations, expanding trade partnerships, and improving service quality to adapt to market changes and achieve sustainable development. The decline highlights ongoing supply chain vulnerabilities.

01/20/2026 Logistics
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Pandemic Transforms Thirdparty Logistics 3PL Industry

Pandemic Transforms Thirdparty Logistics 3PL Industry

This paper analyzes the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Third-Party Logistics (3PL) market, including surging demand, capacity constraints, rising costs, service innovation, and digital transformation. It also explores the main service types within the 3PL market and future development trends such as accelerated digital transformation, enhanced supply chain resilience, and the growing importance of sustainable development. The paper emphasizes the need for 3PL service providers to actively address challenges, seize opportunities, and achieve sustainable growth in the evolving landscape.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Rail Freight Surges Unexpectedly in Early July

US Rail Freight Surges Unexpectedly in Early July

U.S. rail freight and intermodal traffic both increased in the first week of July, with solid year-to-date cumulative growth. Economic recovery and infrastructure investments are key drivers behind this positive trend. The rise in rail freight volume suggests increased demand for goods and materials, reflecting a strengthening economy. Intermodal growth indicates efficient supply chain management and a shift towards more sustainable transportation options. These figures are positive economic indicators, suggesting continued recovery and growth in the U.S. economy.

01/20/2026 Logistics
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