BTS: Transborder freight by rail fell in January

The value of freight moved by rail in January between the United States, Mexico and Canada declined 2.7% to $15.2 billion compared with the same month in 2024, according to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS). 

The total value of transborder freight moved by all modes in January was $134.4 billion, up 8.2%, according to a BTS press release. Railroads moved the second-highest value of transborder freight. The trucking industry came in first, hauling $87.6 billion worth of goods in January, a 10.2% increase.

In January, railroads moved $7.8 billion worth of goods between the United States and Canada, and $7.4 million between the United States and Canada. Detroit, Port Huron, and International Falls are the top rail connection ports for U.S. freight flows with Canada, while Laredo, Eagle Pass and El Paso are the top rail connection ports with Mexico.

The top three commodities moved by rail between the United States and Canada in January were vehicles and parts, valued at $4.6 billion; mineral fuel, $800 million; and plastics, $600 million.

The top three commodities hauled by rail between the United States and Mexico in January were vehicles and parts, valued at $3.6 billion; beverages and spirits, $700 million; and computer machinery, $500 million.