Emerge Benchmarking Helps Shippers Optimize Freight with Data

Emerge Benchmarking Helps Shippers Optimize Freight with Data

Emerge Benchmarking leverages machine learning to provide shippers with real-time freight market insights, optimizing procurement decisions, reducing costs, and improving efficiency. By using data-driven approaches, shippers can gain a deeper understanding of market trends and make more informed freight decisions. This leads to better negotiation strategies, improved carrier selection, and ultimately, a more streamlined and cost-effective supply chain. Emerge Benchmarking empowers shippers with the knowledge they need to navigate the complexities of the freight market successfully.

US Rail Freight Intermodal Gains Offset Carload Declines

US Rail Freight Intermodal Gains Offset Carload Declines

According to the Association of American Railroads, the U.S. rail freight market showed mixed performance in the week ending July 13. Container transport experienced strong growth of 6.3%, reflecting robust consumer demand and global trade. However, traditional rail freight declined by 4.3% year-over-year, impacted by economic transition, energy structure adjustments, and increased competition. Moving forward, railway companies need to actively address these challenges and enhance their competitiveness through technological innovation and service upgrades.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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STB Cuts Fees to Ease Rail Freight Costs

STB Cuts Fees to Ease Rail Freight Costs

The U.S. Surface Transportation Board (STB) significantly reduced the filing fee for rail rate challenges from $20,000 to $350, aiming to lower the barrier for small and medium-sized businesses to seek redress. This is intended to incentivize railroads to improve service quality and reshape competition in the rail freight market. The move is expected to increase the number of complaints, pushing railroads to optimize operations. However, potential risks such as malicious complaints and retaliatory measures from railroads exist. Strengthening the regulatory system and mediation mechanisms will be crucial to address these challenges.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Volumes Rebound in Early August

US Rail Freight Volumes Rebound in Early August

US rail freight and intermodal volumes both increased, driven by commodities such as grain, coal, and motor vehicles. Year-to-date cumulative growth suggests an ongoing economic recovery. The rise in rail shipments indicates increased industrial activity and consumer demand, reflecting positive momentum in the overall economy. This growth highlights the importance of rail as a key transportation mode for moving goods across the country and supporting economic expansion.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Sees Shortterm Challenges Longterm Strength

US Rail Freight Sees Shortterm Challenges Longterm Strength

Data from the Association of American Railroads (AAR) shows a year-over-year decline in U.S. rail freight and intermodal traffic for the week ending October 25th. Performance varied across sectors, with metallic ores showing strength, while automotive and coal transportation faced challenges. Despite current headwinds, rail freight demonstrates resilience in the long term. Increased infrastructure investment, adoption of advanced technologies, service expansion, strengthened collaboration, and a focus on sustainability are crucial to address challenges, seize opportunities, and contribute to U.S. economic prosperity.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Declines As Economic Conditions Shift

US Rail Freight Declines As Economic Conditions Shift

U.S. rail freight and intermodal volumes decreased year-over-year, but cumulative volumes for the year remained higher. Declines were seen in carloads of commodities such as automobiles and coal. The railway industry needs to improve efficiency to address these challenges and maintain growth. While facing headwinds, the overall positive year-to-date performance suggests underlying strength in the rail freight sector despite specific commodity weaknesses and the need for operational improvements.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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Freight Market Slump Continues As Carrier Profits Decline

Freight Market Slump Continues As Carrier Profits Decline

The TD Cowen/AFS Freight Index report reveals that the freight market faces numerous challenges, including excess capacity, declining rates, and policy uncertainty, making it difficult for carriers to maintain profitability. The report analyzes the current state and trends in the truckload, parcel, and less-than-truckload (LTL) markets. It emphasizes that technological innovation and service upgrades are crucial for future development and success in navigating these market complexities.

Freight Carriers Adopt Survival Tactics Amid Profit Pressures

Freight Carriers Adopt Survival Tactics Amid Profit Pressures

The TD Cowen/AFS Freight Index report provides an in-depth analysis of the current challenges facing the freight market, including overcapacity, declining rates, and policy changes. The report analyzes truckload, parcel, and LTL (Less-than-Truckload) segments separately, offering strategic guidance for freight companies to survive in adverse conditions. Data-driven decision-making will be crucial for the future success of freight businesses. This report highlights the importance of adapting to market dynamics and leveraging data for informed strategies in a competitive landscape.

Freight Carriers Profits Decline Amid Overcapacity TD Cowen

Freight Carriers Profits Decline Amid Overcapacity TD Cowen

The TD Cowen/AFS Freight Index Q3 report highlights the challenges carriers face due to overcapacity, declining rates, and tariff impacts. Analyzing key data across Truckload, Parcel, and LTL sectors, the report emphasizes the need for carriers to prioritize profitability and persevere in a soft market. Operational refinement, technological innovation, and flexible strategic adjustments are crucial for success. Carriers must focus on defending profit margins amidst these pressures to ensure long-term sustainability.

US Rail Freight Volumes Show Modest Recovery AAR

US Rail Freight Volumes Show Modest Recovery AAR

The latest data from the Association of American Railroads (AAR) reveals year-over-year growth in both U.S. rail freight and intermodal volumes. The report provides an in-depth analysis of the performance differences across various commodity categories, highlighting market opportunities and challenges. This information offers valuable insights for logistics companies, enabling them to make informed decisions and optimize their operations in the evolving transportation landscape. The data underscores the continued importance of rail in the North American supply chain.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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