Canada Faces Rail Strike Threat Trucking Industry May Mitigate Impact

Canada Faces Rail Strike Threat Trucking Industry May Mitigate Impact

Canadian railways are facing a potential shutdown, with the Canadian Trucking Alliance president stating that trucking capacity cannot compensate for the rail transport shortfall. A railway shutdown would severely impact the Canadian supply chain, disrupting cargo transport, causing shortages at distribution centers, and leading to consumer goods shortages. This event highlights the fragility of the supply chain and serves as a warning for businesses to strengthen risk management and build diversified transportation channels. The potential strike underscores the need for resilient supply chain strategies.

01/07/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Stbs New Rules Aim to Ease Rail Freight Rate Disputes

Stbs New Rules Aim to Ease Rail Freight Rate Disputes

The US Surface Transportation Board (STB) has introduced two new rules to streamline railway freight rate dispute resolution, including a voluntary arbitration program and Final Offer Rate Review (FORR). However, the Association of American Railroads (AAR) strongly opposes these rules, citing “fatal flaws” in FORR and arguing the arbitration rules are “backwards.” Whether these new regulations will bring relief to shippers remains challenging, and shippers need to carefully assess the implications. The future impact of these regulations is uncertain amidst ongoing debate and potential legal challenges.

01/16/2026 Logistics
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Biden Pushes Congress to Prevent Rail Strike As Economy Falters

Biden Pushes Congress to Prevent Rail Strike As Economy Falters

U.S. railroad labor negotiations have reached an impasse, raising the imminent threat of a strike. President Biden has called on Congress to intervene to avert a potential rail shutdown that could devastate the economy. Various industry organizations have emphasized the necessity of reaching an agreement. This article provides an in-depth analysis of the background, the positions of all parties involved, and the potential consequences, aiming to provide readers with comprehensive and insightful information about the ongoing situation.

01/16/2026 Logistics
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Rail Union Rejects Deal Renewed Talks Risk Supply Chain Delays

Rail Union Rejects Deal Renewed Talks Risk Supply Chain Delays

Railroad union rejects the agreement, adding uncertainty to labor negotiations. Paid leave becomes a key point of contention, threatening supply chain stability. Congressional intervention may be required. The union's rejection highlights ongoing disagreements despite previous tentative agreements. This setback raises concerns about potential disruptions to freight rail service and the broader economy. The situation underscores the complexities of balancing worker demands with the need for a reliable transportation network. The possibility of a strike looms large if a resolution isn't reached soon, potentially necessitating intervention from Congress to prevent widespread economic consequences.

01/16/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Dips in Container Volumes

US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Dips in Container Volumes

Data from the Association of American Railroads indicates mixed performance for U.S. rail freight for the week ending December 6th. Carload traffic increased year-over-year, driven by demand for commodities like coal and grain. However, container traffic declined compared to the previous year, reflecting challenges in global trade. Cumulative data for the first 49 weeks of 2025 shows overall freight volume growth. However, caution is advised regarding the potential impact of future economic uncertainties on rail freight performance. The container decline warrants attention as a potential leading indicator.

01/17/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Mixed As Carload Rises Offset Intermodal Slump

US Rail Freight Mixed As Carload Rises Offset Intermodal Slump

Recent US rail freight data shows carload traffic increased year-over-year, driven by strong demand for coal and grain. However, container traffic declined, potentially signaling a slowdown in consumer demand. While full-year data indicates overall growth, recent structural shifts warrant caution. The rail freight industry faces both opportunities and challenges, with technological innovation being crucial for future success. The decrease in container traffic may be an early indicator of a broader economic downturn, requiring careful monitoring of future trends and adjustments to strategies.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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North American Rail Freight Gains Carloads but Loses Intermodal Traffic

North American Rail Freight Gains Carloads but Loses Intermodal Traffic

Recent data reveals a mixed picture for the US rail freight market. Carload traffic shows a slight increase, but performance varies across commodity groups. Intermodal volume, however, has declined. Year-to-date figures indicate overall growth, but the industry faces challenges including economic downturn and increased competition. Rail companies need to actively transform and upgrade their operations to navigate these headwinds and maintain competitiveness.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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North American Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Loses in Intermodal

North American Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Loses in Intermodal

Recent data shows a slight increase in U.S. railcar loadings, but a significant decline in intermodal traffic. Changes in commodity shipment volumes reflect economic restructuring, while supply chain bottlenecks and labor shortages remain challenges. Although year-to-date figures show growth, the risk of a future economic recession warrants caution. Businesses should be flexible, and government and industry associations need to strengthen cooperation to promote the sustainable development of the rail freight market. Monitoring these indicators is crucial for understanding the broader economic landscape and adapting to evolving market conditions.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Declines Over Labor Day Longterm Growth Expected

US Rail Freight Declines Over Labor Day Longterm Growth Expected

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight and intermodal volumes decreased year-over-year in the first week of September, potentially due to Labor Day. However, year-to-date figures still indicate growth, with varying performance across different market segments. Rail freight faces challenges such as economic uncertainty and infrastructure bottlenecks, but also opportunities from e-commerce growth and manufacturing reshoring. Long-term, it's crucial to monitor trends and structural changes impacting the industry.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Dips Over Labor Day Longterm Growth Strong

US Rail Freight Dips Over Labor Day Longterm Growth Strong

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows that U.S. rail freight and intermodal volume declined year-over-year in the first week of September, influenced by Labor Day. The performance of specific commodity types varied, reflecting economic structural changes. Year-to-date cumulative data still shows growth, indicating a positive long-term outlook. Railroad companies need to address supply chain challenges and competition to seize development opportunities.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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