STB Implements Reciprocal Switching Rule to Reduce Rail Freight Delays

STB Implements Reciprocal Switching Rule to Reduce Rail Freight Delays

The U.S. Surface Transportation Board (STB) proposes a reciprocal switching rule to address rail service challenges faced by shippers. The new rule would allow shippers to choose alternative rail carriers when existing carriers fail to meet service standards. It defines service evaluation metrics, simplifies the application process, and aims to break rail monopolies, improve service levels, and ultimately enhance freight efficiency. This initiative seeks to provide shippers with greater options and ensure reliable rail service by promoting competition within the rail industry.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
CSX Rail Strategy Draws Regulatory Scrutiny Customer Complaints

CSX Rail Strategy Draws Regulatory Scrutiny Customer Complaints

CSX Transportation's implementation of Precision Scheduled Railroading (PSR) is facing significant challenges. The Surface Transportation Board (STB) has raised serious concerns, customers are complaining, and employee morale is low. Operational data is deteriorating, and efficiency improvement targets seem unattainable. The future of CSX is uncertain, requiring improved communication, a focus on customer needs, better employee relations, and a potential adjustment of its PSR strategy to overcome current difficulties. The company needs to address these issues to navigate its path forward.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
Great Lakes Rail Bypass Faces Delays Amid Chicago Congestion

Great Lakes Rail Bypass Faces Delays Amid Chicago Congestion

A $2.8 billion bypass rail project, championed by GLBT, aims to alleviate Chicago's freight congestion, but faces funding and demand challenges. The Surface Transportation Board's (STB) decision will have significant implications. Freight companies need to pay close attention to and participate in the process. The proposed bypass seeks to improve efficiency and reduce bottlenecks in the Chicago rail network, a critical hub for North American freight. Success hinges on securing sufficient investment and demonstrating sustained demand for rail freight services.

01/28/2026 Logistics
Read More
Union Pacific Faces STB Scrutiny Amid Lean Strategy Challenges

Union Pacific Faces STB Scrutiny Amid Lean Strategy Challenges

Union Pacific Railroad (UP) plans to implement "Unified Plan 2020," introducing the concept of "Precision Scheduled Railroading" (PSR). The Surface Transportation Board (STB) has expressed concerns, urging UP to learn from CSX's experiences and avoid service disruptions. UP has pledged to proceed with the transformation steadily, aiming to improve efficiency and service levels. This transition is crucial for the future of the rail transport industry, and careful management is essential to prevent negative impacts on shippers and the supply chain.

01/26/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
Rail Industry Leader Details Freight Policy and Growth Strategies

Rail Industry Leader Details Freight Policy and Growth Strategies

AAR President Ian Jefferies interprets the current policy and regulatory environment for rail freight, focusing on the Surface Transportation Act, the evolving role of the STB, and the industry's demands and development vision regarding efficiency, safety, innovation, and sustainability. The article also explores the development trends of diversified rail freight demand, intelligent operation, green and low-carbon initiatives, and integrated multimodal transportation from a data analysis perspective. It highlights the industry's commitment to meeting evolving customer needs while prioritizing responsible and sustainable practices.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
US Regulators Block Union Pacificnorfolk Southern Merger

US Regulators Block Union Pacificnorfolk Southern Merger

The U.S. Surface Transportation Board (STB) has deemed the merger application of Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern incomplete, requesting supplementary information such as market share projections. Competitors BNSF and CN have also called for more transparent disclosures. The STB's decision is not a rejection of the merger, but rather a requirement for the two companies to amend their application to meet regulatory standards. The ultimate fate of the merger remains to be seen, pending revisions and further review by the STB.

02/04/2026 Logistics
Read More
STB Rejects Union Pacificnorfolk Southern Merger Over Incomplete Filing

STB Rejects Union Pacificnorfolk Southern Merger Over Incomplete Filing

The Surface Transportation Board (STB) rejected Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern's $85 billion merger application due to incomplete information. The STB cited a lack of comprehensive system impact analysis and market share projections as key deficiencies. The application failed to adequately address potential disruptions to the rail network and the competitive landscape within the logistics transportation sector. The ruling underscores the STB's commitment to ensuring thorough evaluation of major rail mergers to protect the interests of shippers and the overall transportation system.

02/04/2026 Logistics
Read More
US Logistics Sector Weighs Infrastructure Bills Impact

US Logistics Sector Weighs Infrastructure Bills Impact

The US federal surface transportation authorization act is drawing significant attention, with experts discussing its prospects at the SMC3 JumpStart 2021 conference. The new bill may improve infrastructure but could also increase the burden on logistics companies. Businesses need to actively participate in policy discussions, adapt to regulatory requirements, seize opportunities, and meet challenges to create a better future for the logistics industry. It emphasizes the importance of proactive engagement and adaptation to navigate the evolving landscape shaped by this legislation.

01/26/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
Supply Chain Dive Launches Tip Line for Industry Insights

Supply Chain Dive Launches Tip Line for Industry Insights

Supply Chain Dive opens a leak channel to uncover in-depth and impactful supply chain news through insider information from readers. This channel focuses on collecting news tips, not feedback or press releases. Readers can submit information via a designated form, collectively contributing to deeper industry reporting. We aim to surface critical issues and trends that might otherwise go unnoticed, providing our audience with a more comprehensive understanding of the supply chain landscape. Your insights can help us shape the future of supply chain journalism.

01/06/2026 Logistics
Read More
Stbs New Rules Aim to Ease Rail Freight Rate Disputes

Stbs New Rules Aim to Ease Rail Freight Rate Disputes

The US Surface Transportation Board (STB) has introduced two new rules to streamline railway freight rate dispute resolution, including a voluntary arbitration program and Final Offer Rate Review (FORR). However, the Association of American Railroads (AAR) strongly opposes these rules, citing “fatal flaws” in FORR and arguing the arbitration rules are “backwards.” Whether these new regulations will bring relief to shippers remains challenging, and shippers need to carefully assess the implications. The future impact of these regulations is uncertain amidst ongoing debate and potential legal challenges.

01/16/2026 Logistics
Read More