Freight Market Shifts Under Tariffs and Demand TD Cowenafs Index

Freight Market Shifts Under Tariffs and Demand TD Cowenafs Index

The TD Cowen/AFS Freight Index report indicates that tariff policies, declining consumer confidence, and changes in carrier pricing strategies are impacting the freight market. In trucking, front-loading of inventory is driving up rates, but increased short-haul shipments are lowering overall costs. For parcel, carriers are adjusting prices more frequently, and fuel surcharges are rising, but sales growth faces challenges. In LTL, pricing remains strong despite economic headwinds. The report highlights the complex interplay of factors influencing freight costs and volumes across different transportation modes.

01/15/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Rail Freight and Intermodal Volumes Increase Despite Economic Challenges

US Rail Freight and Intermodal Volumes Increase Despite Economic Challenges

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight and intermodal volume increased year-over-year for the week ending March 20, but growth slowed. Freight volume performance varied across commodities, while intermodal was constrained by port congestion. Cumulative data presents a mixed picture, and the full-year trend remains to be seen. The rail transport industry faces challenges such as aging infrastructure and labor shortages, but also opportunities from economic recovery and environmental policies. Overall performance needs further observation.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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Cargo Plane Demand Rises Despite Trade Tariffs

Cargo Plane Demand Rises Despite Trade Tariffs

Despite tariff pressures, aviation consultancy Cirium forecasts continued growth in freighter demand. Looking back at the US-China trade war, freighter demand bucked the trend and increased, indicating that domestic consumption growth supports the air cargo market. Going forward, freighter operators need to be vigilant about risks such as insufficient cargo volume while seizing structural growth opportunities. The resilience of the air cargo market suggests ongoing demand for dedicated freighters, even amidst global economic uncertainties.

11/03/2025 Logistics Industry Insights
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NYNJ Port Cargo Volumes Drop Amid Retail Inventory Surplus

NYNJ Port Cargo Volumes Drop Amid Retail Inventory Surplus

The Port of New York and New Jersey experienced a 21% year-over-year decrease in cargo volume in August, primarily attributed to retailers working through existing inventory and shifting consumer spending patterns. Despite this decline, the cumulative cargo volume for the first eight months of the year remains higher than the same period in 2019. The port is actively addressing these challenges by upgrading infrastructure, optimizing operational processes, and expanding its range of services. These efforts aim to maintain competitiveness and prepare for future growth.

01/16/2026 Logistics
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Flatbed Freight Market Struggles Amid Industry Shifts

Flatbed Freight Market Struggles Amid Industry Shifts

The flatbed freight market experienced a decline in both volume and price, influenced by seasonal factors and the economic environment. August data presented a mixed picture, while refrigerated truckload volume bucked the trend with growth in July. Daseke Inc.'s acquisition of Builders Transportation Co. highlights ongoing industry consolidation. The sector faces technological innovation and market changes. To navigate these challenges, companies must optimize operations, expand services, strengthen customer relationships, embrace technology, and closely monitor market trends. Strategic adaptation is crucial for success in this evolving landscape.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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UPS Q2 Revenue Falls 27 Amid Economic Uncertainty

UPS Q2 Revenue Falls 27 Amid Economic Uncertainty

In its Q2 2025 earnings report, UPS reported a 2.7% decline in revenue, citing external economic uncertainties affecting performance. While some business segments showed growth, overall operating profit decreased. The CEO emphasized that the company will accelerate collaboration with Amazon to reduce package volume and enhance competitiveness.

07/29/2025 Logistics Industry Insights
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Alashankou Customs Reforms Boost Crossborder Trade Efficiency

Alashankou Customs Reforms Boost Crossborder Trade Efficiency

Alashankou Customs has significantly improved port clearance efficiency, reduced corporate operating costs, and promoted rapid growth in import and export trade by implementing customs clearance facilitation measures such as 'self-declaration and self-payment' and 'aggregate tax payment'. Data shows that the port's cargo volume and total value both achieved significant growth in January and February this year, demonstrating the remarkable effectiveness of customs clearance facilitation reforms.

09/26/2025 Logistics
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Wechat Simplifies Package Shipping in China

Wechat Simplifies Package Shipping in China

This article outlines the steps for efficiently sending packages using WeChat, including gathering recipient information, preparing packaging, making payments through WeChat, submitting a delivery request, and confirming receipt. The aim is to enhance the user experience for parcel delivery.

06/22/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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US Rail Freight Declines Middecember Raising Economic Worries

US Rail Freight Declines Middecember Raising Economic Worries

US rail freight volume is declining, putting pressure on logistics at the end of the year. Commodity performance is diverging, and overall growth is slowing. Affected by multiple factors, companies should actively respond to challenges and seize opportunities. The decrease in freight volume impacts various sectors and highlights the need for businesses to adapt their strategies. Understanding the underlying causes and exploring multimodal transportation options are crucial for maintaining efficiency and mitigating potential losses in this evolving landscape. Strategic planning and proactive measures are essential for success in the face of these challenges.

01/15/2026 Logistics
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