Rail

By Daryl Delano -- Logistics Management, 6/1/1998

Rail linehaul prices increased by 0.4% between March and April. Rail-freight prices now have risen for three consecutive months following a six-month period of virtually no change. Average rail-freight prices during April 1998 were 2.2% higher than in April 1997--the largest same-month-year-ago increase in rail prices recorded since July 1991. The Association of American Railroads reports continued demand for rail services--in fact, its adjusted tonnage index hit an all-time high this spring.

% CHANGE VS.: 1 month ago 6 mos. ago 1 yr. ago

Coal NA NA NA

Chemicals 0.0 +0.2 +0.6

Farm products 0.0 +2.6 +4.4

Motor vehicles 0.0 +0.5 +0.5

Metallic ores +0.3 +2.7 +2.1