U.S., Canada, Mexico Rail Traffic: AAR Report Insights

U.S. rail traffic experienced a 1% rise, with gains in carloads and intermodal units, as reported by the **Association of American Railroads**. Explore the detailed **rail** trends.

U.S., Canada, Mexico Rail Traffic: AAR Report Insights
October 3, 2025 4:54 am
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Introduction

U.S. freight-rail traffic increased by 1% to 512,642 carloads and intermodal units in the week ending Sept. 27 compared to the same week in 2024, according to data from the Association of American Railroads (AAR).

U.S. Rail Traffic Overview

U.S. railroads transported 228,903 carloads, reflecting a 0.9% increase, and 283,739 containers and trailers, which represents a 1.1% increase.

Commodity Performance in Detail

Five of the ten carload commodities monitored weekly by the AAR showed growth. Nonmetallic minerals rose by 7.4% to 32,825 carloads, while grain increased by 8.2% to 22,609 carloads. Motor vehicles and parts saw a 3% increase, reaching 17,205 carloads.

Conversely, declines were observed in several commodity groups. Coal decreased by 2.2% to 59,499 carloads, and petroleum and petroleum products fell by 4.1% to 10,343 carloads. Metallic ores and metals decreased by 1.7%, totaling 20,853 carloads.

Canadian Rail Traffic Analysis

Canadian railroads reported 93,860 carloads for the week, marking a 3.2% decrease. However, intermodal units saw a 3.2% increase, reaching 72,540 units.

Mexican Rail Traffic Analysis

Mexican railroads reported 13,540 carloads, a 7.6% decrease, but intermodal units increased by 21.2% to 15,709 units.

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Conclusion

In the week ending Sept. 27, the Association of American Railroads reported varying trends in North American rail traffic, with the U.S. showing overall growth while Canada and Mexico experienced mixed results in carloads and intermodal units.

Company Summary

Association of American Railroads (AAR): The Association of American Railroads is a trade association representing freight railroads in North America. It collects and publishes data on rail traffic, among other industry activities.

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