US Rail Freight Volumes Drop Amid Economic Slowdown

US Rail Freight Volumes Drop Amid Economic Slowdown

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows a year-over-year decline in U.S. rail freight volume for the second week of June, with both carloads and intermodal facing pressure. Mixed performance across commodity categories reflects structural economic adjustments. The combined impact of macroeconomic factors, supply chain disruptions, and geopolitical tensions contributes to a cautiously optimistic market outlook. Active responses to challenges and seizing opportunities are crucial for navigating the future.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Declines in May As Economy Struggles

US Rail Freight Declines in May As Economy Struggles

US rail freight volume declined in May, reflecting an uneven economic landscape. While sectors like automotive experienced growth, commodities like grain saw decreases. Intermodal traffic also decreased. Overall freight volume for the first five months showed a slight increase, but intermodal shipments experienced a significant drop. This suggests potential shifts in transportation patterns and highlights the impact of ongoing supply chain adjustments and fluctuating demand across different industries on rail freight activity.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Loses in Intermodal

US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Loses in Intermodal

The US rail freight market is diverging: carload traffic is up slightly, driven by demand for autos, coal, and agricultural products. However, intermodal container volume continues to decline due to easing port congestion, truck competition, and cooling consumer spending. Year-to-date figures are mixed, with overall North American rail performance weak. Rail freight faces challenges including economic downturns, supply chain instability, and increased competition, but also opportunities in sustainable development and technological innovation.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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Danny Wan Leads Port of Oakland Amid Challenges Opportunities

Danny Wan Leads Port of Oakland Amid Challenges Opportunities

Danny Wan, the new Executive Director of the Port of Oakland, outlined the port's strategic plans in an interview, focusing on supply chain infrastructure development, addressing trade challenges, expanding import and export business, and resolving stadium site selection. He emphasized the importance of collaborating with business partners, improving operational efficiency, ensuring the port's industrial status, and achieving sustainable development. Wan aims to lead the Port of Oakland to greater development in the new environment.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Industrial Real Estate Booms on Ecommerce 3PL Demand

US Industrial Real Estate Booms on Ecommerce 3PL Demand

A CBRE report indicates that e-commerce and 3PL are driving growth in the US industrial real estate leasing market. E-commerce companies have strong demand, while traditional retailers actively develop e-commerce businesses. 3PL providers offer flexibility and agility. Large facilities are highly favored, and leasing activity is concentrated in core markets such as the Inland Empire, Atlanta, and Chicago. Businesses should seize opportunities, optimize their supply chains, and address market challenges.

02/11/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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MODEX and Messe Mnchen Partner to Transform North American Logistics

MODEX and Messe Mnchen Partner to Transform North American Logistics

Messe München partnered with MODEX to host the TLA exhibition in Atlanta in April 2018. The event focused on logistics innovation, covering the entire spectrum from intralogistics to global logistics. It showcased the latest technologies and solutions in supply chain management, warehousing, transportation, and distribution. The TLA exhibition provided a platform for industry professionals to network, learn about new trends, and explore opportunities for collaboration and growth in the rapidly evolving logistics landscape.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Import Surge Grows As Tariff Concerns Loom

US Import Surge Grows As Tariff Concerns Loom

Panjiva data reveals a surge in US seaborne imports in February, but the shadow of tariffs looms. While trade fundamentals are strong and business confidence is high, tariff policies pose potential risks. To navigate the uncertainty and seize opportunities, companies should diversify supply chains, improve efficiency, and explore new markets. Proactive adaptation is key to success in the face of evolving trade dynamics. The increased imports might not sustain due to the upcoming tariff implementations.

02/12/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Retailers Push White House to Mediate Port Labor Talks

Retailers Push White House to Mediate Port Labor Talks

The NRF is urging the White House to intervene in the labor negotiations between the ILA and USMX to prevent a potential port strike. The NRF warns that a strike would severely damage the retail industry and the overall economy. Disruptions caused by a port strike would further exacerbate existing supply chain challenges and negatively impact businesses and consumers nationwide. The NRF emphasizes the urgency of finding a resolution to avoid significant economic consequences.

02/12/2026 Logistics
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Inefficient Packaging Raises Air Freight Costs

Inefficient Packaging Raises Air Freight Costs

Retailers and manufacturers incur higher logistics costs, known as 'shipping air,' due to inefficient packaging. The increasing emphasis on dimensional weight in the logistics industry compels businesses to optimize their packaging strategies. By improving packaging design, selecting appropriate materials, and collaborating with logistics providers, companies can reduce costs, enhance efficiency, and achieve sustainable development. This proactive approach addresses the challenges posed by dimensional weight pricing and promotes a more streamlined and cost-effective supply chain.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Mercurygate CSX Partner to Digitize Intermodal Transport

Mercurygate CSX Partner to Digitize Intermodal Transport

MercuryGate partnered with CSX to integrate RailPlus into its TMS, streamlining multimodal booking processes and enhancing transportation visibility. This integration optimizes transportation decisions, automates reporting and notifications, and ultimately improves profitability. The collaboration aims to drive digital transformation in multimodal transportation, providing shippers with more efficient and convenient solutions. By simplifying the complexities of intermodal shipping, MercuryGate and CSX are empowering shippers to make smarter choices and improve their overall supply chain performance.

01/20/2026 Logistics
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