Despite concerns about profitability, leading executives from railway corporations BNSF and UP endorse the intermodal business. They criticize a narrow focus on profit margins that could jeopardize future prospects, pointing out that this sector shows different earnings trends than other freight transportation sectors.
XPO, the US’s third-largest Less Than Truckload (LTL) service, is following in the footsteps of its competitors. It is renewing and opening new terminals previously owned by Yellow, with these projects expected to be completed by 2025. The rise in LTL shipping volumes drives companies towards infrastructural refurbishment and expansion.
Significant developments in the maritime freight industry, including the planned launch of Ocean Network Express’s (ONE) West India-North America Express service and the International Maritime Organization’s sulfur cap rule, will likely impact freight costs and regional trade regulations.
Endorsing expansion: railway and maritime perspective
There may also be shifts in regional maritime trade routes due to the evolving geopolitical climate.
The recent launch of ONE’s service in India has already seen a decrease in spot rates for India-US routes, generating a significant increase in bookings. Despite the cost reduction, the competitive market is expected to sustain this effect on spot rates as suppliers vie for price optimization.
Changes in spot rates have raised questions about how this could affect global freight costs and regional maritime trade policies. Introducing ONE’s new route could potentially shift import/export costs and the balance of supply chains, influencing international relations and economies of the countries involved. The shipping industry and international traders will closely monitor the developments and potential implications for their operations.
