Auburn is a city located in King County, Washington, and is part of the Seattle metropolitan area. The city was originally settled in 1891 and was named after Auburn, New York, by a group of settlers from that area. Auburn's early economy was driven by agriculture, with hops being a major crop in the region. However, the city's proximity to major transportation routes, such as the Northern Pacific Railway and later the Interstate 5, played a significant role in its growth and development.

Freight transportation has been an important aspect of Auburn's history and continues to be a vital part of its economy. The city is strategically located near major transportation hubs, including the Port of Seattle and the Port of Tacoma, making it a prime location for businesses involved in logistics and distribution. Additionally, Auburn is home to several rail lines, including the BNSF Railway and the Union Pacific Railroad, which further contribute to its status as a transportation hub.

Raleigh is the capital city of North Carolina and is known as the "City of Oaks" due to its abundance of oak trees. The city was founded in 1792 as the new capital of the state, and its central location made it an ideal hub for transportation and trade. Raleigh's proximity to major highways and interstates, such as I-40 and I-85, has made it a key transportation hub for freight in the region.

In addition to its transportation infrastructure, Raleigh is home to several major freight transportation companies. One such company is XPO Logistics, a global provider of transportation and logistics services. XPO Logistics operates a large facility in Raleigh, which serves as a distribution center for a variety of industries. The company's presence in the city has helped to further establish Raleigh as a major player in the freight transportation industry.