US Rail Freight Decline Points to Economic Slowdown

US Rail Freight Decline Points to Economic Slowdown

Data from the Association of American Railroads (AAR) shows that for the week ending May 7, U.S. rail freight and intermodal traffic both decreased year-over-year. Specifically, carload volumes of motor vehicles & parts, nonmetallic minerals, and coal increased, while metallic ores & metals, grain, and petroleum & petroleum products declined. Overall, North American rail freight volume experienced a downturn. Rail companies need to improve operational efficiency, expand service offerings, strengthen infrastructure, and focus on sustainable development to address these challenges.

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, for the week ending August 20th, U.S. rail carload traffic increased year-over-year, while intermodal volume decreased. Year-to-date figures present a mixed picture, indicating overall pressure on the North American rail freight market. Moving forward, the rail industry needs to accelerate reforms, improve efficiency, and embrace green development to address challenges and achieve sustainable growth. The market faces headwinds, requiring adaptation and innovation to maintain competitiveness and capitalize on future opportunities.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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North American Rail Freight Faces Challenges Amid Growth Push

North American Rail Freight Faces Challenges Amid Growth Push

Data from the Association of American Railroads show recent year-over-year declines in U.S. rail freight and intermodal volume, but cumulative year-to-date figures demonstrate resilience. Performance varies across segments, with gains in grain and nonmetallic minerals, while miscellaneous carloads, chemicals, and coal declined. Intermodal faces challenges like port congestion, but its long-term outlook remains promising. North American rail companies should actively address these challenges, seize opportunities, accelerate transformation and upgrade, and enhance competitiveness.

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

US Rail Freight Volumes Drop Amid Economic Slowdown

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight and intermodal traffic decreased year-over-year for the week ending August 19th. While carload and coal traffic increased, grain and forest products declined. Year-to-date, total carload traffic saw a slight increase, but intermodal traffic significantly decreased. Factors contributing to this include a global economic slowdown, industry challenges, and internal railroad issues. The recovery of rail freight volume faces considerable challenges in the future.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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Ocean Freight Guide Cargo Compliance and Cost Strategies

Ocean Freight Guide Cargo Compliance and Cost Strategies

Cargo stuffing is a crucial step in ocean freight export, involving factory stuffing and warehouse stuffing. Warehouse stuffing is becoming the mainstream choice due to its compliance and professionalism. This article details the stuffing process, the port entry requirements for different categories of dangerous goods (direct entry vs. direct loading onto the vessel), and the various potential costs involved. The aim is to help businesses better understand ocean freight export stuffing and optimize cost control within 100 words.

02/04/2024 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Carbon Black Exports Shift to LCL Ocean Freight

Carbon Black Exports Shift to LCL Ocean Freight

This article details the operational process of exporting carbon black via LCL (Less than Container Load) sea freight. It covers key steps such as document preparation, shipping schedule arrangement, cargo warehousing, customs declaration materials, bill of lading confirmation, and customs clearance. The aim is to assist exporters in completing carbon black export business efficiently and smoothly, providing a comprehensive guide to navigate the complexities of LCL shipments and ensure a successful export process. It highlights important considerations for handling and transporting this specific chemical product.

08/20/2024 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Tips for Safely Shipping Fragile Sand Teapots

Tips for Safely Shipping Fragile Sand Teapots

This article provides a detailed guide on the steps and precautions for sending teapots via express delivery. It includes selecting the appropriate courier service, ensuring proper packaging, clearly labeling the package, and purchasing insurance to guarantee that the teapot arrives safely and undamaged during transit.

02/12/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Exporting Paint and Coatings Navigating Hazardous Shipping Rules

Exporting Paint and Coatings Navigating Hazardous Shipping Rules

This article provides a detailed interpretation of the requirements for sea freight export of 3 types of dangerous goods, such as paints and coatings. It covers key aspects including category classification, flash point standards, booking documents, customs declaration documents, and the loading process. The aim is to help companies clear customs smoothly, avoiding delays and losses. It provides practical guidance on navigating the complexities of exporting these materials by sea, ensuring compliance with international regulations and efficient logistics.

03/06/2024 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Navigating Dangerous Goods at Ningbo Port A Guide for Freight Forwarders

Navigating Dangerous Goods at Ningbo Port A Guide for Freight Forwarders

This article targets freight forwarding newbies, focusing on Ningbo Port's dangerous goods operation standards and customer development strategies. It addresses operational issues when factories lack loading supervisors and provides practical methods for customer acquisition. The aim is to help newcomers quickly adapt to the industry and understand the nuances of dangerous goods handling within the Ningbo Port context, while also equipping them with the skills necessary to expand their client base and succeed in the competitive freight forwarding market.

08/23/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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