Rail and Intermodal Freight Hit by Rising Fuel Costs

Rail and Intermodal Freight Hit by Rising Fuel Costs

According to the Association of American Railroads, rail freight and intermodal volumes have recently seen slight declines, but cumulative totals remain positive. Rising fuel costs are driving shippers to explore intermodal solutions, although performance varies across different commodity categories. Looking ahead, strengthened infrastructure development and supportive policies will be crucial for fostering the sustainable growth of rail freight and intermodal transportation. While recent trends show minor dips, the overall picture suggests continued reliance on rail and intermodal for efficient and cost-effective freight movement.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Loses in Intermodal

US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Loses in Intermodal

According to the Association of American Railroads, for the week ending November 8th, U.S. rail carload traffic saw a slight increase of 0.1%, while intermodal traffic decreased by 8.7% year-over-year. Year-to-date, carload traffic is up 1.8%, and intermodal traffic is up 2.5%. These figures reflect the ongoing structural adjustments within the U.S. economy, as well as the challenges and opportunities facing the global supply chain.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Loses in Intermodal

US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Loses in Intermodal

According to the latest data from the Association of American Railroads (AAR), U.S. rail carloads saw a slight increase of 0.3% for the week ending October 18th, but the growth rate slowed. Intermodal volume decreased by 4.8% year-over-year. Year-to-date, total carloads and intermodal volume have increased by 2.0% and 3.2%, respectively. The report highlights both market opportunities and challenges, emphasizing the importance of adapting to market changes and providing valuable insights for business decision-making.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Loses in Intermodal

US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Loses in Intermodal

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail carload traffic edged up 0.3% for the week ending October 18th, while intermodal traffic decreased by 4.8% year-over-year. Despite positive year-to-date cumulative figures, the market faces economic uncertainties and competitive pressures. Railroad companies need to improve efficiency and expand their business, and the government should increase infrastructure investment to jointly address the challenges.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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Pilot Freight Opens Amsterdam Hub to Expand Global Logistics

Pilot Freight Opens Amsterdam Hub to Expand Global Logistics

Pilot Freight Services has opened its first self-operated European station in Amsterdam, providing comprehensive logistics services including air, sea, and ground transportation. This initiative aims to enhance its European service capabilities, optimize trade lanes between Europe and the Americas, and further expand its European network. Pilot Freight's goal is to deliver superior logistics solutions to its global customers by establishing a strong presence and efficient operations within the European market.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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Cass Freight Index Reports Stable Truckload Rates in November

Cass Freight Index Reports Stable Truckload Rates in November

The Cass Truckload Linehaul Index tracks price fluctuations in the US truckload freight market. Recent data shows a slight decrease in November, but it's still up 8.5% year-over-year, indicating a robust market. The index excludes fuel surcharges, providing a more accurate reflection of market supply and demand. It offers shippers and carriers timely and reliable decision-making support, helping them optimize budgets, pricing, and negotiation strategies. This allows for better informed choices in a dynamic logistics environment.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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RXO Acquires Coyote Logistics Transforming North American Freight Brokerage

RXO Acquires Coyote Logistics Transforming North American Freight Brokerage

RXO's $1.025 billion acquisition of Coyote Logistics aims to expand its footprint in the North American freight brokerage market, positioning it as the third-largest provider. This move will significantly enhance RXO's capacity, customer base, and technological synergies. Simultaneously, UPS's sale of Coyote reflects a strategic shift, focusing on its core small package business. The transaction signals a reshaping of the market landscape and raises questions about future trends in the logistics industry. The deal highlights the ongoing consolidation and strategic realignments within the competitive freight brokerage sector.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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Rising Diesel Costs Weak Shipper Index Strain Freight Industry

Rising Diesel Costs Weak Shipper Index Strain Freight Industry

FTR's Shippers Conditions Index (SCI) fell into negative territory in August, the first time since October 2022. Surging diesel prices were a primary driver, compounded by labor shortages and aging equipment, creating significant challenges for shippers. The SCI indicates a less favorable environment for shippers. Recommendations for shippers include optimizing transportation networks, strengthening partnerships with carriers, and adopting advanced technologies to mitigate these pressures and improve efficiency in a volatile market.

01/18/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Data Analytics Boosts Freight Efficiency Cuts Supply Chain Costs

Data Analytics Boosts Freight Efficiency Cuts Supply Chain Costs

This paper explores how digital freight networks enhance supply chain transparency through data analytics. It examines how shippers can optimize operational expenses, improve facility performance, reduce carbon emissions, and become shippers of choice. The study emphasizes the importance of building a data-driven logistics system and leveraging data insights for continuous improvement. By harnessing the power of data, companies can gain a competitive edge and drive efficiency across their supply chain operations. This ultimately leads to a more sustainable and resilient logistics ecosystem.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Bluegrace Index Shows Cautious Optimism for 2026 Freight Sector

Bluegrace Index Shows Cautious Optimism for 2026 Freight Sector

The BlueGrace Logistics Confidence Index (LCI) report reveals cautious optimism among shippers for Q1 2026. Revenue and order expectations show moderate growth, with inventory expectations rebounding. Key challenges include fluctuating freight rates, rising fuel costs, and capacity concerns. The report advises shippers to strengthen risk management, optimize cost structures, and embrace digitalization to navigate market uncertainties and capitalize on growth opportunities. The LCI suggests a need for proactive strategies in the face of evolving market dynamics.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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