BNSF and CSX launch Phoenix to Atlanta service ‘aiming to convert OTR freight to rail’

Railroad giants BNSF and CSX announced new intermodal service products in an effort to compete with trucking for freight.

On August 22, 2025, the BNSF and CSX announced the following new services:

• The introduction of new, coast-to-coast, direct domestic intermodal services between Southern California and Charlotte, North Carolina and Jacksonville, Florida
• In addition, a new service will also be launched between Phoenix, Arizona, and Atlanta, Georgia, aiming to convert over-the-road (OTR) freight to rail through a seamless product between the two railroads.
• The introduction of new direct international intermodal services between the Port of New York and New Jersey, and Norfolk, Virginia, and Kansas City. 

“These new, customer-focused service products will offer immediate value for customers by increasing flexibility and optionality, while delivering integrated service for freight moving across the U.S,” the companies said in a joint news release.

The companies say that more details about the new services will be released soon.

“This collaboration between BNSF and CSX demonstrates the power of partnership, delivering greater flexibility, efficiency and value for our customers,” said BNSF Group Vice President of Consumer Products Jon Gabriel. 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,” said Drew Johnson, Vice President, Intermodal Sales and Marketing at CSX. “Together, we’re opening access to key markets and strengthening options for our mutual customers. ”