US Rail Freight Mixed in May Intermodal Gains Steady

US Rail Freight Mixed in May Intermodal Gains Steady

According to the latest data from the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight volume in May remained flat year-over-year, but intermodal traffic experienced strong growth. Intermodal transportation benefits from tight trucking capacity and corporate cost reduction demands, and is expected to maintain its growth momentum. The overall rail freight market reflects economic uncertainty. The industry needs to address challenges such as energy transition and manufacturing reshoring, while actively embracing technological innovation. The growth in intermodal offsets the weakness in other rail segments.

01/22/2026 Logistics
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Truck Driver Shortage Drives Up Freight Labor Costs

Truck Driver Shortage Drives Up Freight Labor Costs

According to the American Trucking Associations, the driver turnover rate at large truckload carriers surged to 92% in the third quarter, while smaller carriers reached 74%. Less-than-truckload (LTL) remained relatively stable at 14%. This high turnover reflects challenges in the freight market, including driver shortages and increased competition. Companies need to actively address these issues to ensure supply chain stability and mitigate the impact of driver attrition on their operations. Addressing driver retention is crucial for maintaining service levels and profitability in the current environment.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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US Truckload Spot Rates Hit Multiyear Highs Amid Hurricane Season Ecommerce Surge

US Truckload Spot Rates Hit Multiyear Highs Amid Hurricane Season Ecommerce Surge

A DAT report reveals that North American freight spot rates have surged to multi-year highs due to various factors. The confluence of challenges, including hurricane disasters, the ELD mandate, and the e-commerce peak season, is expected to maintain tight capacity through the end of the year. The close connection between e-commerce and the spot market is also increasingly evident. High demand driven by online retail is contributing significantly to the upward pressure on freight rates and the overall capacity crunch in the trucking industry.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Railroads Adapt to Policy Tech and Market Shifts

US Railroads Adapt to Policy Tech and Market Shifts

This paper provides an in-depth analysis of interviews with executives from the Association of American Railroads (AAR), examining the strategic priorities of the rail industry in terms of policy, technology, and market trends. It covers topics such as modernizing regulatory frameworks, infrastructure user-pay principles, market fluctuation analysis, the application of technological innovations, and competition with the trucking industry. The AAR is committed to leading the rail industry towards a safer, more efficient, and sustainable future through policy advocacy, technological innovation, and market analysis.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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ELD Mandate Raises Freight Costs Strains Supply Chains

ELD Mandate Raises Freight Costs Strains Supply Chains

The Electronic Logging Device (ELD) mandate may lead to a 10%-20% increase in trucking rates, causing higher supply chain costs and potential capacity shortages. The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) has raised privacy and rights concerns about the regulation and challenged its legality. Businesses need to plan ahead, optimize transportation networks, strengthen carrier relationships, and explore alternative solutions to address these challenges. Proactive strategies are crucial to mitigate the impact of the ELD mandate on freight costs and overall supply chain efficiency.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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GAO Urges FMCSA to Reform Truck Safety Rating System

GAO Urges FMCSA to Reform Truck Safety Rating System

A Government Accountability Office (GAO) report highlights the FMCSA's slow progress in improving the CSA safety measurement system, hindering the effective identification of high-risk trucking companies. The report recommended modifications to the SMS methodology, which the FMCSA did not agree with. Industry associations and experts are urging the FMCSA to re-evaluate and enhance the CSA system to more effectively reduce accident rates and ensure road safety. The current system's shortcomings raise concerns about its ability to adequately address risks posed by unsafe carriers.

01/26/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Freight Forwarders Face Postclearance Challenges Detention Fees

Freight Forwarders Face Postclearance Challenges Detention Fees

This article interprets common issues in freight forwarding, including terminal operations after customs clearance, detention charge standards, and handling discrepancies in bills of lading. It emphasizes the differences in cut-off times among shipping companies and the importance of accurate information when confirming bills of lading. The analysis also covers VGM submission and discrepancies in cargo quantity, providing practical insights for freight forwarders to navigate these challenges effectively and minimize potential errors and costs.

08/22/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Shipping Industry Urges Strategies to Avoid Demurrage Fees

Shipping Industry Urges Strategies to Avoid Demurrage Fees

Demurrage and detention are common additional costs in international trade. Demurrage refers to charges incurred for exceeding the free storage time for goods at a terminal. Detention refers to charges for holding a container beyond the allowed free time. Careful planning of cargo pickup and container return, maximizing the use of free time, can effectively avoid these unnecessary expenses. It is recommended to consult local information for specific regulations regarding demurrage and detention fees.

09/28/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Shanghai Pudong Airport Emerges As Global Aviation Hub

Shanghai Pudong Airport Emerges As Global Aviation Hub

Shanghai Pudong International Airport is a crucial international aviation hub in China, covering 40 square kilometers. It boasts advanced infrastructure, including three runways, 218 aircraft stands, and an 830,000-square-meter terminal. As a 4F-level airport, it can accommodate various large aircraft, including the Airbus A380. Its international hub status facilitates international trade, tourism, and cultural exchange. The airport will continue to develop to improve service quality and operational efficiency in the future.

09/26/2025 Airport Codes
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Cuiab Airport Expands As Brazils Key Regional Aviation Hub

Cuiab Airport Expands As Brazils Key Regional Aviation Hub

Marshal Rondon International Airport in Cuiabá, Mato Grosso, Brazil, is a vital aviation hub that has evolved into an international airport. Continuous modernization efforts include terminal expansion, runway optimization, and service quality improvements. These upgrades aim to meet the growing passenger and cargo demands, connecting central Brazil to destinations worldwide. The airport plays a significant role in facilitating travel and trade within the region and beyond, solidifying its position as a key transportation gateway.

09/26/2025 Airport Codes
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