US Service Sector Grows Modestly Amid Employment Worries

US Service Sector Grows Modestly Amid Employment Worries

The July ISM Non-Manufacturing Index edged up to 52.6, signaling continued expansion in the service sector. However, the Employment Index sharply declined to 49.3, raising concerns about the economic outlook. The report indicated robust business activity, but challenges persist due to weak business confidence and rising prices. Overall, the non-manufacturing sector faces multiple pressures including technological changes, globalization, and labor shortages, requiring careful navigation.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Rail Freight Dips Over Labor Day YTD Growth Holds

US Rail Freight Dips Over Labor Day YTD Growth Holds

According to the Association of American Railroads data, U.S. rail freight traffic declined in the week ending September 6, influenced by Labor Day. Carload and intermodal volumes both decreased year-over-year. Despite the weak single-week performance, cumulative volumes for the year remain positive. Future development is subject to multiple factors, including economic conditions, policy changes, and internal reforms within the rail industry.

01/17/2026 Logistics
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Cass Freight Index Shows October Demand Slump Amid Labor Strikes

Cass Freight Index Shows October Demand Slump Amid Labor Strikes

The Cass Freight Index reveals declines in both freight volume and expenditures in October, year-over-year and month-over-month, primarily due to weak demand and the UAW strike. Analysts suggest that private fleets' internal sourcing may lead to overall freight volume outperforming road transport. Looking ahead, economic conditions, geopolitical risks, and technological changes will continue to impact the freight market, requiring proactive responses from businesses.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Cass Freight Index Drop Signals Economic Slowdown

Cass Freight Index Drop Signals Economic Slowdown

The Cass Freight Index indicates a year-over-year decline in both freight volumes and expenditures for December, reflecting weak market demand and excess capacity. Companies should address these challenges through supply chain optimization, lean inventory management, and digital transformation. Despite the current market headwinds, factors such as economic recovery and infrastructure development hold the potential to drive a turnaround in the freight market.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Trucking Rates Climb Despite Falling Freight Volume

US Trucking Rates Climb Despite Falling Freight Volume

A peculiar phenomenon emerged in the US freight market in September: freight volumes declined while freight rates slightly increased. This wasn't driven by demand but rather by freight imbalances and changes in capacity. Small fleets might benefit from rising rates on return routes. However, the overall market still faces challenges. A weak traditional peak season is anticipated, potentially leading to more trucking company bankruptcies.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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September Trucking Spot Rates Climb As Volumes Fluctuate

September Trucking Spot Rates Climb As Volumes Fluctuate

The US trucking freight market in September presented a complex picture: capacity declined while rates saw a slight increase. This wasn't driven by demand but rather by freight imbalances and capacity shifts. Analysts are pessimistic about the upcoming peak season, anticipating weak volumes. Some carriers may benefit from marginal rate increases. Market participants need to closely monitor market dynamics and adjust strategies to navigate the challenges.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Q1 2025 Freight Index Shows Diverging Multimodal Pricing Trends

Q1 2025 Freight Index Shows Diverging Multimodal Pricing Trends

The TD Cowen-AFS Freight Index reveals a mixed bag for different transportation modes despite overall weak freight demand. Truckload spot rates are slightly up, but contract rates remain under pressure. Parcel carriers are adapting to market competition through flexible pricing strategies. LTL pricing remains stable, but there are signs of weakening pricing discipline. The index provides valuable market insights and decision-making support for freight companies.

12/31/2025 Logistics Industry Insights
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CH Robinson Execs Discuss Shifting Trucking Brokerage Trends

CH Robinson Execs Discuss Shifting Trucking Brokerage Trends

C.H. Robinson VP Kevin Abbott provides an in-depth analysis of the current trucking brokerage market: weak demand, ample capacity, and intensifying competition necessitating service upgrades. He believes the impact of ELDs is limited, while technology is driving efficiency improvements. Abbott also suggests that the "Uberization" of trucking is still immature. Looking ahead, continuous innovation and adaptation to change are crucial for success in the evolving landscape.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Yearend Trucking Market Shows Cooling Demand Trends

Yearend Trucking Market Shows Cooling Demand Trends

DAT reports indicate that the US truckload freight market is facing challenges due to weak demand and excess capacity. While spot rates have seen some increases, the overall trend remains sluggish. Experts believe seasonal rate hikes will squeeze broker margins, potentially leading to more bankruptcies. Logistics companies are advised to refine operations, diversify services, strengthen risk management, and embrace technological innovation to navigate the market downturn.

01/22/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Trucking Market Slump Continues Amid Modest Rate Increases DAT

Trucking Market Slump Continues Amid Modest Rate Increases DAT

DAT reports that the US truckload freight market remained weak in October, with decreased freight volumes. Spot rates saw a slight increase but were still lower than the same period last year. Experts predict continued challenges in 2025, with an increased risk of broker bankruptcies. Industry participants are advised to closely monitor market dynamics, optimize operations, flexibly adjust strategies, and strengthen risk management practices.

01/22/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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