FORT WORTH, TEXAS and JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA – BNSF and CSX have announced the launch of several new intermodal service offerings, designed to create seamless coast-to-coast rail connections between major U.S. markets. The new services aim to provide shippers with faster, more flexible options for moving freight across the country.
Expanding Coast-to-Coast Rail Connectivity
The two rail operators will introduce direct domestic intermodal services linking Southern California to Charlotte, North Carolina, and Jacksonville, Florida. This connection is expected to improve rail’s competitiveness against long-haul trucking by reducing transit times and offering shippers a more predictable schedule.
Additionally, a new domestic intermodal service will connect Phoenix, Arizona, with Atlanta, Georgia. This corridor is particularly focused on converting freight that currently moves by truck to rail, an effort that both companies emphasize as critical to strengthening supply chain resilience and supporting more sustainable freight transport.
Strengthening International Intermodal Links
Alongside domestic services, BNSF and CSX will also introduce new international intermodal routes. Direct service will now be available from the Port of New York and New Jersey, and Norfolk, Virginia, to Kansas City. This expansion opens new inland options for importers and exporters who rely on East Coast gateways, offering them extended reach into the U.S. heartland.
These services will enhance access to Midwest markets, where demand for reliable inland distribution continues to rise. For global shippers moving cargo through East Coast ports, the ability to connect seamlessly to Kansas City by rail offers a valuable alternative to trucking.
Supporting Infrastructure Investments
Between Phoenix and Flagstaff, two new 10,000-foot sidings will be added to support growing volumes. The sidings are designed to enable more efficient meet/pass operations on the Southern Transcon, one of BNSF’s busiest routes for moving intermodal freight between West Coast ports and inland hubs.
By expanding capacity and improving fluidity on this corridor, BNSF is laying the groundwork for future demand while ensuring current traffic can move more efficiently.
Voices from the Industry
“This collaboration between BNSF and CSX demonstrates the power of partnership, delivering greater flexibility, efficiency and value for our customers,” said Jon Gabriel, BNSF Group Vice President of Consumer Products. “We are looking forward to these offerings providing immediate, streamlined service to the supply chain across key markets nationwide.”
“Through this new connectivity, CSX and BNSF are connecting Western and Eastern U.S. markets, creating faster, more reliable service,” added Drew Johnson, Vice President of Intermodal Sales and Marketing at CSX. “Together, we’re opening access to key markets and strengthening options for our mutual customers.”
Delivering Options for Shippers
The new services are intended to provide shippers with greater flexibility and multiple routing options across the U.S. For cargo owners weighing choices between road and rail, the ability to move freight directly between Southern California and Southeast destinations, or from East Coast ports to Midwest hubs, provides an immediate alternative.
Further details on schedules and availability will be announced by both railroads in the coming weeks.
