US Rail Freight Intermodal Rises Coal Declines in February

US Rail Freight Intermodal Rises Coal Declines in February

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail carload traffic decreased slightly by 0.7% year-over-year for the week ending February 8. However, intermodal traffic increased by 7.4%. Chemical and nonmetallic minerals carloads increased, while coal and metallic ores carloads declined. Year-to-date, carload traffic is even with last year, while intermodal traffic is up 9.7%. The rail freight market is experiencing structural changes, with intermodal transportation becoming a major driver of growth.

01/30/2026 Logistics
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US Freight Market Rebounds in Q2 Despite Ongoing Challenges

US Freight Market Rebounds in Q2 Despite Ongoing Challenges

Bank of America's Q2 Freight Payment Index indicates a continued year-over-year decline in both freight volume and spending, but the decrease is narrowing, suggesting a potential market bottom. Factors like shifts in consumer spending, inflation rates, and geopolitical events influence the market. Freight companies should monitor market dynamics, control costs, diversify services, invest in technology, and focus on customer relationships to navigate these challenges. The narrowing decline offers a glimmer of hope amidst ongoing economic uncertainty, requiring proactive strategies for sustained success.

01/30/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Rail Freight Sees Carload Drop Amid Container Growth

US Rail Freight Sees Carload Drop Amid Container Growth

The US rail freight market presents a mixed picture: traditional carload freight volumes have declined sharply, down 13.6% year-over-year, while container traffic has bucked the trend, increasing by 2.3%. Key drivers include economic restructuring, consumption upgrades, changes in global trade patterns, energy structure adjustments, and the rise of e-commerce. Railway companies need to actively embrace change by expanding container business, optimizing carload freight operations, and strengthening technological innovation.

01/30/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Rises Intermodal Surges in Early March

US Rail Freight Rises Intermodal Surges in Early March

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight and intermodal volume both increased year-over-year for the week ending March 8, 2025. However, year-to-date, total carload traffic is down 1.5%, while intermodal volume is up 8.4%. Coal and grain shipments increased, while metallic ores, chemicals, and forest products declined. Railroad companies should capitalize on intermodal opportunities and address freight challenges to achieve sustainable growth.

01/30/2026 Logistics
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Ocean Freight to the US Key Shipping Timeframes Explained

Ocean Freight to the US Key Shipping Timeframes Explained

This article provides a detailed analysis of the factors influencing shipping time to the USA via ocean freight. These factors include the port of origin, port of destination, shipping route, vessel type, and weather conditions, providing a general timeframe for transit. It also addresses questions related to shipping speed and cost, assisting readers in better planning their ocean freight transportation schedules. The article aims to provide clarity and practical guidance for those considering ocean freight to the United States.

01/30/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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US Rail Freight Rebounds As Carload Intermodal Traffic Rises

US Rail Freight Rebounds As Carload Intermodal Traffic Rises

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail carload and intermodal traffic both increased year-over-year for the week ending March 8th. Coal and grain were key drivers for carload growth, while intermodal continued its strong performance. Year-to-date figures show intermodal growth offsetting the decline in carload volume. The U.S. rail freight market is undergoing structural changes, presenting both challenges and opportunities.

02/03/2026 Logistics
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US Aims to Build Seamless Logistics Network for Freight

US Aims to Build Seamless Logistics Network for Freight

The U.S. freight system faces a fragmented, 'puzzle-piece' dilemma. While Congress has conducted reviews, tangible funding remains scarce. Logistics experts advocate for long-term planning and innovative financing solutions, while businesses emphasize breaking down 'silos' and building interconnected 'networks.' Whether the new Transportation Secretary can usher in a new era hinges on establishing suitable funding mechanisms. The core issue is identifying reliable and sustainable sources of capital to modernize and improve the nation's freight infrastructure.

02/03/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Freight Volume Hits Record High Amid Economic Challenges

US Freight Volume Hits Record High Amid Economic Challenges

The U.S. Bureau of Transportation Statistics reported a record high Freight Transportation Services Index (Freight TSI) of 142.4 in June. Despite economic headwinds, the index surpassed its previous peak, driven by growth in trucking, rail, air freight, and waterborne transportation. This data reflects the resilience of the U.S. freight industry and suggests potential for economic growth. However, caution is warranted due to inflation, rising interest rates, and geopolitical risks. The Freight TSI serves as a key economic indicator, reflecting the overall health and activity within the logistics and transportation sectors.

02/03/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Regulators Investigate Shipping Firms Amid Rising Freight Costs

US Regulators Investigate Shipping Firms Amid Rising Freight Costs

The U.S. Congress is investigating Maersk, CMA CGM, and Hapag-Lloyd, the three largest shipping companies, due to surging ocean freight rates and concerns about industry competition. The investigation demands freight rate information and lists of long-term contracts to assess potential unfair competition. High freight rates have prompted businesses to reconsider their supply chain strategies and may reshape global trade patterns. The shipping industry faces uncertainty and challenges, requiring cooperation from all stakeholders to address these issues.

02/03/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Ocean Freight Rates Surge Amid Supply Chain Pressures

US Ocean Freight Rates Surge Amid Supply Chain Pressures

Ocean freight rates to the United States remain elevated due to a confluence of factors including economic recovery, surging import demand, container shortages, rising fuel costs, and port congestion. Looking ahead, with ongoing supply chain disruptions and robust demand, ocean freight rates are likely to remain at high levels. The situation is further exacerbated by bottlenecks at major ports, adding to delays and increasing overall shipping costs. Businesses are facing significant challenges in managing their supply chains and absorbing these higher transportation expenses.

02/02/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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