US Rail Freight Stagnates As Intermodal Declines

US Rail Freight Stagnates As Intermodal Declines

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail carload traffic was largely flat for the week ending June 28th, while intermodal traffic saw a slight decrease. Performance varied across sectors, with gains in grain and automotive shipments offset by declines in metals and coal. Cumulative data for the first 26 weeks of the year indicates continued growth in overall freight volume. However, the industry faces ongoing challenges related to macroeconomic conditions, industry competition, and infrastructure limitations.

01/20/2026 Logistics
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US Freight Rail Leaders Address Industry Challenges

US Freight Rail Leaders Address Industry Challenges

Executives from the Association of American Railroads (AAR) and the American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association (ASLRRA) discussed the challenges facing the U.S. freight rail industry at the RailTrends conference, including labor negotiations, regulatory pressures, and industry image concerns. The article analyzes these challenges and looks ahead to the future development direction of the industry. The discussions highlight the complexities of balancing operational efficiency with workforce demands and navigating the evolving regulatory landscape, all while striving to maintain a positive public perception.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Rail Freight Traffic Declines Postlabor Day

US Rail Freight Traffic Declines Postlabor Day

U.S. rail freight volume decreased in early September due to Labor Day, but cumulative volume remains up year-to-date. Carload and intermodal performance varied. The industry faces ongoing challenges including competition from other modes of transportation and increasing environmental pressures. Despite the holiday dip, the overall positive trend suggests continued economic activity, making rail freight volume a relevant economic indicator. Future performance will depend on adapting to these competitive and environmental factors.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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US Shippers Index Signals Freight Market Stability

US Shippers Index Signals Freight Market Stability

The Shipper Conditions Index (SCI), published by FTR, a US freight transportation consulting firm, is a key indicator for assessing the freight market environment. Although the January 2024 SCI decreased compared to the previous month, it remained positive, indicating market stability. The SCI is influenced by factors such as capacity, demand, and freight rates, helping shippers develop strategies and negotiate rates. Combining it with other indices provides a more comprehensive understanding of market dynamics.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Global Ocean Shipping Industry Adopts Efficiency Measures

Global Ocean Shipping Industry Adopts Efficiency Measures

This article provides a detailed explanation of the international freight forwarding ocean freight operation process, covering key steps such as booking, customs clearance, and bill of lading. It helps you clarify your thinking, optimize processes, improve efficiency, and ensure the safe and timely delivery of goods to their destination. It offers insights into streamlining the complex procedures involved in international ocean freight, empowering businesses to navigate the shipping landscape effectively and avoid potential delays or complications. This guide is a valuable resource for anyone involved in international trade and logistics.

09/26/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Breaking Down Drayage Costs in Container Trucking Industry

Breaking Down Drayage Costs in Container Trucking Industry

This article provides an in-depth analysis of common basic container trucking charges in Full Container Load (FCL) ocean freight. It clarifies that these charges typically cover the pick-up and delivery stages, while excluding additional costs such as chassis fees and fuel surcharges. The aim is to help readers accurately estimate total logistics costs, facilitate cost comparisons, and effectively control logistics expenses. This enables more informed decision-making in ocean freight operations.

11/03/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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FCL Vs LCL Shipping Balancing Cost Efficiency for Global Freight

FCL Vs LCL Shipping Balancing Cost Efficiency for Global Freight

This article provides an in-depth analysis of the cost structure for both Full Container Load (FCL) and Less than Container Load (LCL) international ocean freight. It reveals the impact of cargo volume and specific scenarios on choosing the optimal shipping solution. The article offers guidelines for matching cargo volume with appropriate shipping methods and provides practical advice to help you identify the most cost-effective ocean freight option and avoid unnecessary losses.

01/15/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Nanjing Achieves New Model for Cross-border E-commerce Ocean Freight Full Container Imports

Nanjing Achieves New Model for Cross-border E-commerce Ocean Freight Full Container Imports

Nanjing has implemented a new model for importing via cross-border e-commerce using FCL shipping, successfully completing its first FCL operation and significantly reducing logistics costs. Goods purchased through overseas e-commerce platforms are delivered within a week. Although sea freight is slightly slower than air freight, its cost advantages are clear, providing good options for e-commerce businesses and consumers, and promoting further development of cross-border trade.

07/21/2025 Logistics
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Understanding COV Fees in Ocean Freight Forwarding: An Insight into Change of Vessel Fee

Understanding COV Fees in Ocean Freight Forwarding: An Insight into Change of Vessel Fee

COV (Change of Vessel Fee) is a common charge in maritime freight forwarding, typically around 200 RMB per instance. This fee applies in cases where changes to the vessel are required due to customer reasons, helping to prevent empty cargo holds during voyages. Understanding the background and implications of change of vessel fees can assist customers in making more efficient arrangements for cargo transport and avoid unnecessary costs.

07/16/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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International Shipping Fee Inquiry: A Comprehensive Understanding of Ocean Freight Prices and FCL Rates

International Shipping Fee Inquiry: A Comprehensive Understanding of Ocean Freight Prices and FCL Rates

This article provides a comprehensive overview of international sea freight inquiry, covering aspects such as shipping quotes, full container rates, and key port information. It explores the components of sea freight, offers methods for checking shipping quotes, and discusses the differences and advantages of full container shipping versus less-than-container-load (LCL) shipping.

07/18/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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