Fewer Crosstowns, Faster Freight

Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern want to fix a major inefficiency in intermodal freight: the costly truck transfers across Chicago. Their $85 billion merger could create a coast-to-coast rail line that reduces crosstowns by routing lower-volume shipments directly between East and West Coast destinations. Today, up to 3,000 shipments per day are drayed between Chicago terminals, adding time and friction.

By eliminating some of those moves, the merged railroad could shave two to three days off transit times. It would also reduce complexity for intermodal marketing companies and shrink the need for coordination across multiple systems. That’s a big win for shippers moving smaller volumes between less-trafficked regions.

The merger won’t solve every bottleneck. It may even create new ones in lanes where partnerships shift or dissolve. Still, industry leaders expect improved network fluidity and broader access to intermodal options. Fewer handoffs and more direct service could help rail compete harder with long-haul trucking.

TLC is staying ahead of these changes and stands ready to navigate any shifts in routing or capacity to keep your freight moving without disruption.