US Rail Freight Declines in September Amid Economic Uncertainty

US Rail Freight Declines in September Amid Economic Uncertainty

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight and intermodal traffic declined year-over-year for the week ending September 20. Grain and metallic ores carloads saw gains, while coal, miscellaneous carloads, and nonmetallic minerals experienced declines. Year-to-date figures still indicate overall growth. Rail operators need to improve operational efficiency, expand diversified services, and strengthen technological innovation to address challenges and achieve sustainable development.

01/18/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Volume Rises in Early August

US Rail Freight Volume Rises in Early August

For the week ending August 2, 2025, U.S. rail freight and intermodal traffic both showed year-over-year growth. Total rail carloads increased by 6.4%, while intermodal containers and trailers grew by 0.2%. Year-to-date, total rail carloads are up 2.8%, and intermodal volume has increased by 4.7%. These figures suggest a degree of activity in the U.S. economy, but future development remains subject to various influencing factors.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Rises Slightly on Intermodal Demand

US Rail Freight Rises Slightly on Intermodal Demand

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight traffic experienced a slight increase in late September. Carload traffic rose by 0.9% year-over-year, while intermodal traffic increased by 1.1%. Performance varied across commodity categories, with gains in nonmetallic minerals, grain, and motor vehicle parts. Coal, petroleum, and metallic ores saw declines. Year-to-date figures show growth in both carload and intermodal traffic. However, the market continues to face challenges including energy transition and technological innovation.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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North American Rail Freight Gains Mask Intermodal Decline

North American Rail Freight Gains Mask Intermodal Decline

The Association of American Railroads (AAR) report indicates that for the week ending November 29, 2025, U.S. rail carload traffic increased by 4.3% year-over-year, while intermodal traffic decreased by 6.5% year-over-year. Year-to-date figures show growth in both carload and intermodal volume. The report highlights the complex landscape of the rail freight market, providing valuable market information and strategic insights for businesses.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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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 Sees Mixed Results Carloads Up Intermodal Down

US Rail Freight Sees Mixed Results Carloads Up Intermodal Down

For the week ending November 8, 2025, US rail freight presented a mixed picture: carload traffic saw a slight increase, while intermodal traffic declined. Year-to-date figures indicate overall growth, but future development faces both opportunities and challenges. These are influenced by various factors including the macroeconomic environment, industry structure, and global trade. The fluctuations highlight the sensitivity of rail freight to broader economic trends and the ongoing evolution of supply chain dynamics. Further analysis is needed to understand the underlying drivers and predict future performance.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Mixed in Early November Carloads Rise Intermodal Falls

US Rail Freight Mixed in Early November Carloads Rise Intermodal Falls

For the week ending November 8, 2025, U.S. rail carload traffic saw a slight increase of 0.1%, while intermodal volume decreased by 8.7% year-over-year. Shipments of nonmetallic minerals and grain increased, while automotive parts and coal shipments declined. Year-to-date freight volume remains on a growth trajectory. However, railway companies need to pay attention to challenges arising from macroeconomic factors, supply chains, and the energy transition.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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North American Intermodal Traffic Rises Sharply in Q2 2025

North American Intermodal Traffic Rises Sharply in Q2 2025

North American intermodal volumes increased by 2.4% year-over-year in Q2 2025, marking consecutive growth. Domestic container shipping remained stable, while international container shipping performed strongly. Key drivers included retail trade, manufacturing PMI, and GDP growth. Future US-China trade relations and tariff policies pose uncertainties, requiring logistics companies to adapt flexibly. The continued growth highlights the resilience of the intermodal sector despite potential headwinds from geopolitical factors and evolving trade dynamics. Strategic planning and diversification will be crucial for navigating the changing freight landscape.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Rebounds in August with Volume Growth

US Rail Freight Rebounds in August with Volume Growth

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight traffic experienced year-over-year growth in the first week of August, with both carload and intermodal volumes increasing. Metallic ores and coal led carload shipments, while continued growth in intermodal freight reflects a recovery in consumer demand. Year-to-date cumulative data shows solid growth, but the industry still faces challenges such as labor shortages and aging infrastructure. Embracing change is crucial for a successful future.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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North American Rail Freight Sees Resilient Growth Amid Mixed Trends

North American Rail Freight Sees Resilient Growth Amid Mixed Trends

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows a recent divergence in North American rail freight volumes, with some commodity categories experiencing growth while others decline. However, the long-term market outlook remains robust. The future of North American rail freight points towards greater intelligence, sustainability, and integration. It is crucial to proactively address challenges and embrace changes to capitalize on emerging opportunities in the evolving landscape.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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