Freight Train-Hours, Class I Railroads for United States
M03049USM606NNBR • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
3,835.00
Year-over-Year Change
4.35%
Date Range
1/1/1920 - 8/1/1943
Summary
The Freight Train-Hours metric measures the total number of hours that freight trains operated by Class I railroads in the United States were in service. This statistic is an important indicator of the overall volume and efficiency of the nation's freight rail transportation network.
Analysis & Context
This economic indicator provides valuable insights into current market conditions and economic trends. The data is updated regularly by the Federal Reserve and represents one of the most reliable sources for economic analysis.
Understanding this metric helps economists, policymakers, and investors make informed decisions about economic conditions and future trends. The interactive chart above allows you to explore historical patterns and identify key trends over time.
About This Dataset
The Freight Train-Hours metric provides insight into the operational activity and productivity of the Class I railroads, which account for the vast majority of freight rail transport in the U.S. This data is closely watched by economists, policymakers, and industry analysts to assess the health and capacity of the freight rail system.
Methodology
The data is collected directly from the Class I railroad companies by the U.S. Federal Railroad Administration.
Historical Context
Freight rail transport plays a critical role in the U.S. economy, moving essential goods and raw materials, so this metric is relevant for monitoring economic conditions and policy decisions.
Key Facts
- Class I railroads account for over 90% of freight rail mileage in the U.S.
- Freight rail transport moves over 1.7 billion tons of goods annually in the U.S.
- Rail is the most fuel-efficient mode of land-based freight transport
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: The Freight Train-Hours metric measures the total number of hours that freight trains operated by Class I railroads in the United States were in service.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: This data provides insight into the operational activity and productivity of the Class I railroads, which account for the vast majority of freight rail transport in the U.S. It is closely watched by economists, policymakers, and industry analysts to assess the health and capacity of the freight rail system.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is collected directly from the Class I railroad companies by the U.S. Federal Railroad Administration.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Freight rail transport plays a critical role in the U.S. economy, so this metric is relevant for monitoring economic conditions and informing policy decisions related to infrastructure, regulations, and support for the freight rail industry.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The data is published monthly with a typical 1-2 month delay.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Freight Train-Hours, Class I Railroads for United States (M03049USM606NNBR), retrieved from FRED.