BNSF, CSX Intermodal Expansion- US Rail Connectivity

BNSF and CSX launch new intermodal rail services, connecting key US markets. Expansion addresses Union Pacific/Norfolk Southern merger.

BNSF, CSX Intermodal Expansion- US Rail Connectivity
September 7, 2025 10:00 pm

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Introduction

BNSF Railway and CSX Transportation have introduced new intermodal service offerings, including direct connections between Southern California and Charlotte, North Carolina, and Jacksonville, Florida, as a response to the Union Pacific (UP) and Norfolk Southern (NS) merger.

New Intermodal Service Launches

The new services feature direct domestic intermodal connections. These include routes between Southern California and Charlotte, North Carolina, and Jacksonville, Florida. Additionally, a service connecting Phoenix, Arizona, and Atlanta, Georgia, is designed to shift over-the-road (OTR) freight to rail through a joint product.

International Intermodal Service Expansion

BNSF and CSX are also planning new direct international intermodal services. These services will link the Port of New York and New Jersey, and Norfolk, Virginia, with Kansas City. This expansion aims to provide shippers with more options for moving freight between inland hubs and key seaports.

Infrastructure Investment

To support the expanding market, two new 10,000-foot sidings will be constructed between Phoenix and Flagstaff, Arizona. This infrastructure investment is intended to improve operational efficiency on the corridor that connects to BNSF’s Southern Transcon.

Executive Statements

Jon Gabriel, BNSF Group Vice President of Consumer Products, stated that the collaboration “demonstrates the power of partnership, delivering greater flexibility, efficiency, and value for our customers.” He added, “We are looking forward to providing immediate, streamlined service to the supply chain across key markets nationwide.”

Drew Johnson, Vice President of Intermodal Sales and Marketing at CSX, commented that the new connectivity enables CSX and BNSF to connect Western and Eastern U.S. markets, creating faster, more reliable service. He noted, “Together, we’re opening access to key markets and strengthening options for our mutual customers.”

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Conclusion

The announcements follow the regulatory approval of the UP and NS merger, which has resulted in one of North America’s largest coast-to-coast rail freight networks. In response, BNSF and CSX are deepening their partnership and accelerating their integrated intermodal offerings.

Company Summary

BNSF Railway: A major freight railroad in North America.

CSX Transportation: A Class I freight railroad operating in the eastern United States.

Union Pacific (UP): One of the largest freight railroads in the United States.

Norfolk Southern (NS): A Class I freight railroad operating in the eastern United States.

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