Rail Freight Shipping

Rail Freight vs. Intermodal Shipping – Which is Right for You?

Not sure whether rail freight or intermodal shipping is the better choice for your business? At FreightCenter, we help shippers make the smartest decision based on freight type, delivery needs, and budget. Here’s how the two options compare.

Rail Freight Shipping is an excellent fit if you’re moving bulk freight or heavy raw materials over long distances. Your goods travel exclusively by train, making it a highly efficient and cost-effective solution for shipments that aren’t time-sensitive and can be delivered to rail-served locations.

On the other hand, Intermodal Shipping combines the strengths of rail and truck transport, giving you more flexibility. It’s ideal for consumer goods, retail inventory, and freight that requires door-to-door delivery. With the convenience of trucks for first and last-mile transport, intermodal is often faster while still maintaining cost efficiency over long hauls.

Quick Comparison of Rail vs Intermodal Shipping

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Who Are the Major Rail Freight Providers?

FreightCenter partners with the most trusted and established rail carriers in the U.S. to provide businesses with reliable, cost-effective rail freight shipping solutions. These industry-leading providers operate massive rail networks that move goods efficiently across North America—serving nearly every major industry sector.

Here’s a closer look at the top five rail freight carriers in the U.S. that help power our national shipping network:

1. Union Pacific Railroad (UP)

As the largest freight rail company in the U.S., Union Pacific operates over 32,000 miles of track across 23 states in the western two-thirds of the country. With annual revenues topping $21.7 billion, UP plays a vital role in transporting agricultural products, automotive parts, chemicals, energy, and intermodal freight.

2. BNSF Railway

A close second in size, BNSF Railway maintains a vast network covering 32,500+ miles in 28 states. BNSF specializes in moving bulk freight, consumer goods, and industrial materials and is a top choice for intermodal shipping, making it a key player in FreightCenter’s rail logistics capabilities.

3. CSX Transportation

Covering over 21,000 miles in the eastern U.S., CSX Transportation connects major markets from the Midwest to the Atlantic coast. With $10.6 billion in annual revenue, CSX serves industries such as automotive, minerals, chemicals, and consumer goods—making it a dependable partner for shippers using FreightCenter.

4. Norfolk Southern Railway (NS)

Operating across 19,500+ miles in 22 eastern states, Norfolk Southern is known for its reliability and reach. With a strong emphasis on intermodal and bulk cargo, NS is a preferred rail provider for FreightCenter customers moving freight throughout the Southeast, Mid-Atlantic, and Midwest regions.

5. Kansas City Southern (KCS)

Focused on central and southern U.S. markets, KCS operates more than 6,600 miles of track and provides vital cross-border access to Mexico. With $2.8 billion in revenue, KCS is an essential part of North American trade routes and an asset in FreightCenter’s network for international and intermodal shipments.

FreightCenter makes it easy to tap into these industry giants. Our platform compares carriers, routes, and rates so you can book the most efficient and cost-effective rail freight solution—without needing direct contracts or complicated logistics.