On February 10, 2026, Union Pacific Corp announced its recognition as North America’s premier railroad for intermodal service, as highlighted in the latest Intermodal Service Scorecard published by the Journal of Commerce. This acknowledgment cements Union Pacific's reputation as a crucial player in the logistics sector, particularly in the rapidly evolving intermodal landscape.

1. A Testament to Customer Commitment

Kenny Rocker, Union Pacific's Executive Vice President of Marketing and Sales, emphasized the significance of this accolade, stating, “We put a high value on our customers and their feedback. It’s why this recognition is so meaningful, because it comes from the people and businesses we serve.” This statement underscores the company's commitment to customer satisfaction, a cornerstone of Union Pacific's operational philosophy.

The feedback from customers has been overwhelmingly positive, with 80% of respondents rating Union Pacific as “good” or “very good” in the second half of 2025. Notably, the railroad received high marks for its terminal gate processes for both inbound and outbound containers as well as for equipment availability—key factors that contribute to a seamless intermodal experience.

2. Expansion and Innovation

Union Pacific's dedication to enhancing its intermodal services is evident through several strategic initiatives launched in 2025. Among these was the inauguration of a new intermodal terminal in Kansas City, Kansas, which is expected to bolster service efficiency and capacity.

Rocker also noted the impending merger with Norfolk Southern, highlighting its potential to revolutionize intermodal service offerings. “Our intermodal service is the best in the industry, and it’s going to be even stronger through our merger with Norfolk Southern,” he stated. This merger is anticipated to streamline operations by providing customers with a single point of contact and a unified invoicing system, which could significantly enhance the customer experience while reducing logistical costs.

3. Comprehensive Network Reach

Union Pacific's intermodal network is unrivaled in North America, covering 32,000 miles of track and accessing intermodal ramps in key population centers across the western United States. The extensive reach of its network ensures that Union Pacific can serve a diverse clientele, enhancing the reliability and frequency of service.

In August 2025, the company introduced a new domestic intermodal service linking the City of Industry in Southern California to the Kansas City terminal. Additionally, a truck-competitive service connecting Southern California’s Inland Empire to Chicago was launched, which greatly increased intermodal capacity. These advancements further solidify Union Pacific's position as a leader in the intermodal freight sector.

4. Collaborative Efforts with Norfolk Southern

The strategic partnership with Norfolk Southern also led to the announcement of a new domestic intermodal service, which connects Union Pacific customers in western and southern markets to Norfolk Southern’s modernized intermodal facilities in the Louisville area. This collaboration not only expands service offerings but also enhances operational efficiency through shared resources and expertise.

5. Conclusion

Union Pacific's recognition as the top-performing railroad for intermodal service in 2025 is a testament to its unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction, innovative service offerings, and strategic expansion initiatives. With a robust intermodal network and collaborative efforts aimed at enhancing service reliability, Union Pacific is well-positioned to maintain its leadership in the industry for years to come. As it continues to evolve and adapt to market demands, the company is set to play a pivotal role in connecting businesses and communities to the global economy.

Original press release