U.S. Rail Traffic Rises 0.5%-0.7% in August 2025

US freight rail traffic saw intermodal and carload gains in August, reaching record highs since 2021.

U.S. Rail Traffic Rises 0.5%-0.7% in August 2025
September 16, 2025 11:55 pm
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Introduction

U.S. freight railroads experienced a modest increase in intermodal and carload traffic during August. Intermodal shipments reached an average weekly volume of 284,316 containers and trailers, a 0.5% increase compared to August 2024. Carload volume also rose by 0.7% in August compared to last year.

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Intermodal Traffic Performance

Intermodal shipments saw a 0.5% rise in August compared to August 2024, with an average weekly volume of 284,316 containers and trailers. This volume is the highest since May 2021 and the highest for August since 2018. For the first eight months of 2025, intermodal shipments totaled 9.47 million units, representing a 4.1% year-over-year increase. Despite steady volume in the past two years, the sector faces potential impacts from consumer spending, global trade, and policy changes.

Carload Volume Analysis

Carload volume increased by 0.7% in August compared to the previous year. The average number of carloads in August was 230,184, the highest since October 2022.

Commodity Performance in August

Of the 20 carload commodities monitored, 11 showed year-over-year growth in August. Noteworthy increases were observed in grain (up 1.7%), coal (up 0.9%), chemicals (up 1.1%), and primary metal products (up 8.3%).

Conclusion

In August, U.S. freight railroads saw growth in both intermodal and carload traffic. Intermodal shipments increased by 0.5%, reaching the highest volume since May 2021. Carload volume rose by 0.7%, with several commodities experiencing year-over-year growth.

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