U.S. Rail Volumes Rise: Carloads Up 3.4%, Intermodal Up 10.4%

Oct 16, 2026

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The signal

The Association of American Railroads reported that U.S. rail carloads and intermodal volumes both achieved annual gains for the week ending October 10.

Carloads rose 3.4% year-over-year to 232,004 units, while intermodal containers and trailers increased 10.4% to 302,252 units.

Eight of ten tracked commodity categories saw annual gains, led by metallic ores and metals, though coal volumes declined.

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What This Means for Your Supply Chain

Simulation Suggestion

strategic

What if intermodal volume growth accelerates beyond the current 10.4% annual rate?

Model the impact of sustained or accelerating intermodal volume growth rates on rail network capacity utilization, dwell times at intermodal terminals, and equipment availability (containers and trailers) across major U.S. corridors.

Run this scenario

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Supply Chain Simulation: How It Works and How to Choose Software

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