US Rail Traffic Rises 0.9% – August 2024 Update

Introduction

U.S. freight-rail traffic rose 0.9% to 521,502 carloads and intermodal units in the week ending August 30, compared with the same week in 2024, according to data from the Association of American Railroads (AAR).

U.S. Rail Traffic Overview

U.S. railroads transported 234,740 carloads, reflecting a 0.6% increase, and 286,762 containers and trailers, marking a 1.2% increase.

Commodity Performance in the U.S.

Out of the ten carload commodities monitored weekly, five experienced gains. Chemicals increased by 4.9% to 34,960 carloads. Metallic ores and metals rose by 3.5% to 22,362 carloads, and nonmetallic minerals increased by 1.4% to 32,602 carloads.

Conversely, some commodity groups saw declines. Petroleum and petroleum products decreased by 7.7% to 10,559 carloads. Grain fell by 3.6% to 19,766 carloads, and forest products decreased by 3.4% to 8,236 carloads.

Canadian Rail Traffic

Canadian railroads reported 90,367 carloads, a decrease of 3.9%, and 71,949 intermodal units, an increase of 23.1%.

Mexican Rail Traffic

Mexican railroads reported 13,749 carloads, a 28% decrease, and 15,901 intermodal units, a 12.1% increase.

Conclusion

In the week ending August 30, 2024, U.S. freight-rail traffic saw a 0.9% increase, while Canadian and Mexican railroads reported varied results in carloads and intermodal units.

Company Summary

Association of American Railroads (AAR): The AAR is a trade association representing the major freight railroads of North America.