US Trucking Market Faces Winter Challenges As Freight Index Fluctuates

US Trucking Market Faces Winter Challenges As Freight Index Fluctuates

The Cass Freight Index indicates sluggish shipment volume growth and decelerating expenditure growth in November, suggesting challenges for the freight market. Year-over-year shipment volume declined, with a sharp decrease in West Coast imports, potentially influenced by shifts in global trade patterns. Expenditure growth was primarily driven by changes in the transportation mode mix, indicating persistent cost pressures. Investors can use the index to assess freight companies, but a comprehensive analysis incorporating other data is crucial. The index points towards a softening freight market, requiring careful monitoring of evolving economic conditions.

01/21/2026 Logistics
Read More
US Rail Freight Volumes Rise in Late August Signaling Recovery

US Rail Freight Volumes Rise in Late August Signaling Recovery

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight and intermodal volumes both increased year-over-year for the week ending August 30th. Chemical and metallic ores shipments showed strong performance, while petroleum and grain shipments declined. Year-to-date freight and intermodal volumes also demonstrated growth. Rail transport faces competition from trucking and challenges from environmental policies. Future development requires strengthened technological innovation and improved service quality to maintain competitiveness and meet evolving demands.

01/22/2026 Logistics
Read More
US Rail Freight Sees Split Trends in Carload Intermodal Volumes

US Rail Freight Sees Split Trends in Carload Intermodal Volumes

According to the Association of American Railroads, for the week ending August 23rd, U.S. rail carloads increased by 0.6% year-over-year, while intermodal traffic decreased by 1.9%. Grain and automotive shipments showed strong performance, while oil and coal shipments declined. Year-to-date figures still indicate solid growth. Railroad companies need to improve efficiency, invest in infrastructure, expand services, and focus on sustainable development.

01/22/2026 Logistics
Read More
STB Proposes US Rail Freight Reforms to Cut Shipper Costs

STB Proposes US Rail Freight Reforms to Cut Shipper Costs

The U.S. Surface Transportation Board (STB) has introduced two proposals aimed at helping rail freight users reduce costs and break the rail freight monopoly by reforming rate dispute resolution mechanisms and promoting inter-railroad competition. The proposals simplify the rate challenge process, lower the threshold for shippers to protect their rights, and consider adopting NITL's competitive switching proposal to secure more rights for shippers. These changes intend to make rate challenges more accessible and potentially increase competition among rail carriers, ultimately benefiting shippers.

01/22/2026 Logistics
Read More
US Trucking Industry to Hit Peak Freight Volume by 2035

US Trucking Industry to Hit Peak Freight Volume by 2035

The American Trucking Associations forecasts US truck freight volume to reach a peak of 14 million tons by 2035. The report indicates trucking's dominance in the freight market, with continued growth anticipated over the next decade. It analyzes key factors influencing the trucking industry's development and predicts future trends, including sustainability, automation, digitalization, personalized services, and collaboration/integration. These factors will significantly shape the industry's landscape and operations in the coming years, requiring businesses to adapt and innovate to remain competitive.

01/22/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
Ecommerce Firms Adopt Faster Ocean Freight Strategies for US Deliveries

Ecommerce Firms Adopt Faster Ocean Freight Strategies for US Deliveries

This paper delves into the critical factors impacting ocean freight transit time to US overseas warehouses, including shipping routes, ports, weather conditions, and customs clearance efficiency. It proposes practical optimization strategies such as selecting reputable carriers, advance planning and booking, and streamlining customs processes. Through case studies, the paper emphasizes the importance of transit time optimization for cross-border e-commerce businesses in reducing costs and enhancing competitiveness. The study highlights how improved efficiency can significantly impact profitability and customer satisfaction.

01/23/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
Read More
Shipping Class 52 Hazardous Materials Key Challenges and Guidelines

Shipping Class 52 Hazardous Materials Key Challenges and Guidelines

This article shares practical experience in exporting Class 5.2 dangerous goods by sea, provided by a seasoned freight forwarder. It details key aspects like vessel selection, booking, warehousing, declaration, and customs clearance, highlighting crucial points to note. Specific solutions are offered for handling the unique conditions at Yangshan Port. This guide helps you avoid pitfalls and achieve efficient customs clearance for your dangerous goods shipments.

01/06/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
Read More
Freight Forwarding Experts Share Tips for Efficient Shipping

Freight Forwarding Experts Share Tips for Efficient Shipping

This article compiles the experience of Harry, a seasoned freight forwarder, offering practical advice and solutions to common problems such as tax refunds, account suspension, customs declaration, shipping schedules, and customs inspection. It helps you avoid various pitfalls in consolidated shipping clearance and master foreign trade logistics. Learn from real-world scenarios and expert insights to navigate the complexities of international shipping and ensure smooth and efficient operations.

08/23/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
Read More
Verify Long Beach Port Codes Early to Avoid Holiday Delays

Verify Long Beach Port Codes Early to Avoid Holiday Delays

In foreign trade transportation, the Long Beach Port transit port code is crucial. This article emphasizes the importance of confirming the code with the freight forwarder, especially before holidays, to avoid cargo delays due to incorrect codes. Do not attempt to find the code independently; instead, verify the specific code and port of entry clearly. Accurate information ensures smooth and timely delivery of goods through Long Beach Port.

08/22/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
Read More
Verification Errors in Port Entry Information: Who Is Responsible?

Verification Errors in Port Entry Information: Who Is Responsible?

During port inspections, incorrect input information can lead to inconvenience for vehicle passage, even if the manifest is accurate. The responsibility for this should fall on the inspection point. It is recommended to promptly contact the freight forwarder or customs broker to assist in modifying the port area data to ensure smooth shipment of goods. It is essential to consult relevant units for accurate information to avoid unnecessary delays.

07/18/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
Read More