US Rail Freight Decline Temporary Dip or Longterm Trend

US Rail Freight Decline Temporary Dip or Longterm Trend

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows that U.S. rail freight and intermodal volume decreased year-over-year in the first week of November, but year-to-date figures remain positive. Grain and metallic ores shipments increased, while coal, motor vehicles & parts shipments declined. The intermodal volume decrease may be due to truck competition and easing port congestion. Despite challenges such as energy transition and technological changes, the long-term outlook for the U.S. rail freight industry remains positive.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Mixed Grain Metals Up Autos Intermodal Down

US Rail Freight Mixed Grain Metals Up Autos Intermodal Down

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight volume saw a slight year-over-year decrease in early November. However, grain and metals shipments bucked the trend, showing growth, while coal and automotive transport declined. Intermodal business also faced challenges. Year-to-date figures still indicate overall growth. Railroad companies need to adapt to market changes and focus on key factors such as economic growth, energy policies, supply chain management, technological innovation, and infrastructure investment to maintain a competitive edge.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Intermodal Decline Slows As Domestic Containers Gain Traction

US Intermodal Decline Slows As Domestic Containers Gain Traction

The US intermodal market continued its decline in September, though the decrease narrowed. Domestic container business bucked the trend with positive growth. Overall, the year's data remains weak, impacted by economic factors, inventory levels, and truck competition. The Intermodal Association of North America anticipates potential improvement in the second half of the year. However, experts believe the peak season performance was lackluster, and the market continues to face challenges. The slowing decline in September offers a glimmer of hope amidst broader economic headwinds.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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ATA Data Shows Freight Market Growth Potential in Second Half

ATA Data Shows Freight Market Growth Potential in Second Half

The American Trucking Associations (ATA) reported a decrease in freight tonnage for June, but experts believe this is a short-term fluctuation. They maintain that the underlying economic fundamentals are solid, with factors like declining inventories and manufacturing improvements expected to drive growth in the second half of the year. The industry anticipates more opportunities from the peak season and ELD implementation. Logistics companies should monitor market dynamics, optimize operations, expand their businesses, and strengthen collaborations to seize these opportunities.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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ISM Forecasts Steady Manufacturing Growth Strong Services Expansion

ISM Forecasts Steady Manufacturing Growth Strong Services Expansion

The ISM Supply Chain Planning Forecast indicates growth in both US manufacturing and service sectors for 2024, albeit with different patterns. Manufacturing is experiencing a solid recovery, with revenue projected to increase by 4.2% in 2025. The service sector continues to grow, but with a slight decrease in capacity utilization. The report provides forecasts on key indicators such as prices, employment, capacity, and operating rates, helping companies optimize their supply chain strategies. It offers valuable insights for businesses navigating the evolving economic landscape.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Manufacturing Rebounds As Services Sector Expands ISM

US Manufacturing Rebounds As Services Sector Expands ISM

The ISM report indicates a diverging growth outlook for the US manufacturing and service sectors in 2025. Manufacturing is projected for a solid recovery, with anticipated growth in both revenue and capital expenditures. The service sector is expected to continue expanding, albeit with a slight decrease in capacity utilization. The report provides valuable insights for businesses and governments in formulating strategic decisions. It highlights the distinct trajectories of these key economic sectors and offers a basis for informed planning and resource allocation.

02/03/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Services Sector Slips in September but Remains Resilient

US Services Sector Slips in September but Remains Resilient

The US ISM Non-Manufacturing report for September showed a slight decrease in the NMI to 58.6, but it remains well above the expansion/contraction threshold, indicating continued expansion in the non-manufacturing sector. Sub-indices presented a mixed picture: business activity and new orders growth slowed, and employment growth stalled, but input price pressures eased. Non-manufacturing is crucial to the US economy and faces both challenges and opportunities in the future. Strengthening risk management and innovation are necessary.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Services Sector Expands in September ISM Data Shows

US Services Sector Expands in September ISM Data Shows

The U.S. ISM Non-Manufacturing Index (NMI) edged down to 58.6 in September, according to the Institute for Supply Management report. Despite the slight decrease, the NMI remains above the expansion threshold, indicating continued growth in the non-manufacturing sector for the 56th consecutive month. The Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) also exceeded its 12-month average. As a stabilizer for economic growth, the non-manufacturing sector should focus on both challenges and opportunities in the future, striving for progress while maintaining stability.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Rail Freight Volumes Decline Amid Economic Slowdown Concerns

US Rail Freight Volumes Decline Amid Economic Slowdown Concerns

Data from the Association of American Railroads indicates a year-over-year decrease in U.S. rail freight and intermodal volume for the week ending September 20th. Grain and metal shipments increased, while coal transportation experienced a significant decline. Year-to-date figures show growth, but at a slower pace. Key influencing factors include macroeconomic conditions, industry competition, supply chain bottlenecks, and energy policy transitions. Railroad companies need to improve operational efficiency, expand diversified business lines, strengthen infrastructure development, and embrace sustainable development practices.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Trucking Volumes Decline Amid Uneven Economic Recovery

US Trucking Volumes Decline Amid Uneven Economic Recovery

The American Trucking Associations reported a 1.2% month-over-month decrease in the U.S. truck tonnage index for September, ending two months of gains. Despite a slow and challenging economic recovery, the overall trend has been upward since January. This article analyzes the economic conditions behind the data, highlighting the impact of factors such as manufacturing, consumer spending, international trade, and policies on trucking volumes. It also looks ahead to the challenges and opportunities facing the industry in the future.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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