US Rail Freight Struggles Despite Coal Chemical Growth

US Rail Freight Struggles Despite Coal Chemical Growth

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight traffic decreased by 3.7% and intermodal traffic decreased by 4.5% for the week ending May 21st. While coal and chemical industries saw growth, grains and metals faced challenges. Port congestion and driver shortages constrained intermodal development. Future infrastructure investment, green transition, and technological innovation will present opportunities for the rail freight market. Overall, the data suggests a mixed performance in the rail freight sector, influenced by both industry-specific factors and broader economic conditions.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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Fedex Freight Opens New Alberta Hub to Expand Western Canada Service

Fedex Freight Opens New Alberta Hub to Expand Western Canada Service

FedEx Freight has opened a new service center in Alberta, Canada, aimed at improving logistics efficiency and service capabilities in Western Canada. This strategic hub will reduce transit times, increase flexibility, and expand service coverage, positively impacting the Canadian logistics market and helping local businesses expand. The new facility enhances FedEx's network and provides improved access to key markets for customers shipping within and across Western Canada. It represents a significant investment in the region's infrastructure and demonstrates FedEx's commitment to supporting economic growth.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Volumes Drop Amid Economic Slowdown

US Rail Freight Volumes Drop Amid Economic Slowdown

Data from the Association of American Railroads indicates a year-over-year decrease in U.S. rail freight and intermodal volumes in late August. While automotive and petroleum product demand remained strong, coal and grain shipments faced headwinds. Year-to-date figures present a mixed picture, with intermodal continuing to show weakness. Factors such as economic slowdown, supply chain challenges, and energy transition are impacting freight volumes. Railroads need to enhance efficiency, expand services, strengthen customer relationships, and embrace digitalization and sustainability to navigate these challenges.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Slows As Auto Sector Holds Steady

US Rail Freight Slows As Auto Sector Holds Steady

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight and intermodal traffic declined year-over-year in late August. While motor vehicles and parts transportation saw growth, coal and grain shipments experienced significant drops. Year-to-date rail freight volume shows slight growth, but intermodal remains weak. Analysts attribute this to economic slowdown and structural shifts. Rail companies need to actively transform, and the government should strengthen infrastructure development. This situation highlights the need for adaptation in the face of changing economic conditions and transportation demands.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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Direct Vs House Air Waybills Key Choices for Air Freight

Direct Vs House Air Waybills Key Choices for Air Freight

This article provides a detailed interpretation of the concepts, differences, and applicable scenarios of Direct Air Waybill (Direct AWB) and House Air Waybill (House AWB) in international air transport. A Direct AWB is issued by the airline, directly connecting the actual consignor and consignee. A House AWB is issued by the freight forwarder, involving a master air waybill and house air waybill, and is often used in scenarios where freight forwarders need to provide customs clearance and other services. The choice of which document to use depends on factors such as the consignee's customs clearance capabilities, service requirements, cost, information security, and transportation time.

09/26/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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