Story perspectives

US Rail Freight Mixed: Coal Rises, Intermodal Falls

7/8/2025

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Summary

Story summary

In June 2025, US rail freight experienced mixed results; conventional carloads increased for the fourth consecutive month.
Intermodal traffic declined by 2.9%, marking its first drop in nearly two years.
Coal and grain shipments rose significantly, with coal up 6.4% year-to-date and grain up 11.3% year-on-year.
The AAR highlighted economic uncertainty affecting consumer spending and freight demand.
The rail sector shows cautious optimism amid these fluctuating economic conditions.

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Story summary

In June 2025, US rail freight experienced mixed results; conventional carloads increased for the fourth consecutive month.
Intermodal traffic declined by 2.9%, marking its first drop in nearly two years.
Coal and grain shipments rose significantly, with coal up 6.4% year-to-date and grain up 11.3% year-on-year.
The AAR highlighted economic uncertainty affecting consumer spending and freight demand.
The rail sector shows cautious optimism amid these fluctuating economic conditions.