US Rail Freight Sees Winter Carload Drop Amid Intermodal Growth

US Rail Freight Sees Winter Carload Drop Amid Intermodal Growth

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight in February presented a mixed picture. Carload volume plummeted 11.1% year-over-year, dragged down by declining demand for coal, building materials, and automobiles. However, container traffic bucked the trend, growing by 1.8%, demonstrating the resilience of intermodal transportation. Severe weather exacerbated the challenges for traditional freight, highlighting the impact of economic restructuring and supply chain bottlenecks. Rail freight needs to actively transform, embracing intermodal solutions and digital technologies, to achieve a resurgence.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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Class 8 Truck Orders Drop Sharply in July Amid Market Shifts

Class 8 Truck Orders Drop Sharply in July Amid Market Shifts

North American Class 8 truck orders plummeted in July, impacted by production quotas, supply chain bottlenecks, and cost volatility. While demand remains robust, recession risks and slow supply chain recovery pose challenges. Fleet operators should plan ahead, cultivate strong supplier relationships, monitor market dynamics, and optimize existing fleets to navigate the uncertainty. The decline reflects not a lack of demand, but rather constraints on production and delivery. Careful planning and proactive management are essential for success in this volatile market.

02/03/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Amazon Sellers Adopt Datadriven Tactics to Optimize Product Selection

Amazon Sellers Adopt Datadriven Tactics to Optimize Product Selection

This course aims to help Amazon sellers build a systematic approach from product selection to creating bestsellers. It addresses four core challenges: product selection difficulties, profit bottlenecks, operational efficiency improvement, and building a systematic mindset. Through data analysis and practical case studies, the course empowers sellers to enhance operational efficiency and profitability, ultimately achieving the goal of creating top-selling products. The course focuses on leveraging data to make informed decisions and optimize strategies for successful product launches and sustained growth on Amazon.

02/02/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Ocean Freight Rates Surge Amid Supply Chain Pressures

US Ocean Freight Rates Surge Amid Supply Chain Pressures

Ocean freight rates to the United States remain elevated due to a confluence of factors including economic recovery, surging import demand, container shortages, rising fuel costs, and port congestion. Looking ahead, with ongoing supply chain disruptions and robust demand, ocean freight rates are likely to remain at high levels. The situation is further exacerbated by bottlenecks at major ports, adding to delays and increasing overall shipping costs. Businesses are facing significant challenges in managing their supply chains and absorbing these higher transportation expenses.

02/02/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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West Coast Ports Seek Rail Solutions to Ease Congestion

West Coast Ports Seek Rail Solutions to Ease Congestion

A 2015 webinar focused on rail and multimodal transport, addressing issues like port congestion, rising freight rates, and a shortage of skilled logistics professionals. The discussion advocated for diversified transportation options, collaborative efforts, and innovative solutions to mitigate these challenges. The webinar highlighted the importance of a holistic approach to supply chain management to overcome bottlenecks and ensure efficient movement of goods. It emphasized the need for industry stakeholders to work together to address the talent gap and optimize multimodal transport strategies.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Rail Freight Volumes Decline Amid Economic Slowdown Concerns

US Rail Freight Volumes Decline Amid Economic Slowdown Concerns

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 September 20th. Grain and metal shipments increased, while coal transportation experienced a significant decline. Year-to-date figures show growth, but at a slower pace. Key influencing factors include macroeconomic conditions, industry competition, supply chain bottlenecks, and energy policy transitions. Railroad companies need to improve operational efficiency, expand diversified business lines, strengthen infrastructure development, and embrace sustainable development practices.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Service Sector Expands Steadily in September Despite Challenges

US Service Sector Expands Steadily in September Despite Challenges

The US Services PMI report for September indicates a fourth consecutive month of expansion in service sector economic activity, with a PMI of 57.8, above the average of the past 12 months. Sub-indexes such as business activity, new orders, and employment all showed growth. The report reflects a steady recovery in the service sector despite pandemic challenges, but also highlights issues like insufficient demand and supply chain bottlenecks. Experts believe that stimulus packages are crucial for maintaining business operations.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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DP World Invests 75M in Southampton Port Crane Upgrade

DP World Invests 75M in Southampton Port Crane Upgrade

DP World is investing $75 million to upgrade its Southampton container terminal, introducing four of Europe's largest quayside cranes. These cranes, boasting a quad lift capability, will significantly enhance loading and unloading efficiency. This upgrade will solidify the Port of Southampton's position as a vital UK trade hub and enable it to provide more efficient services for global trade.

11/03/2025 Logistics
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The Key Role and Development Trends of International Freight Forwarding

The Key Role and Development Trends of International Freight Forwarding

International freight forwarding, as an economic activity, is entrusted by clients to provide transportation and related services for import and export goods. It encompasses various transportation modes to adapt to global trade development. Due to changes in the market economy, individuals and businesses increasingly rely on freight forwarders for professional handling of specific matters to facilitate trade.

07/16/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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The Future of Logistics in Africa Addressing Challenges and Innovating Development

The Future of Logistics in Africa Addressing Challenges and Innovating Development

The African logistics industry demonstrates remarkable resilience and growth potential in the face of global economic challenges. With increased demand for African goods, enhanced investments in port infrastructure, and the adoption of digital technologies, Africa's position in global maritime trade is steadily rising. Looking ahead, Africa is expected to become a significant pillar of global trade.

07/23/2025 Logistics Industry Insights
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