NS Intermodal and Automotive Boosts Throughput, Strengthens Terminal Performance

We’re making strategic moves to bring more business to our railroad while helping to reduce the highway congestion and carbon emissions of trucks. Investing in our infrastructure is a big part of that.

Here’s a look at some of our terminals undergoing upgrades that support capacity, efficiency, and customer demand.

Melvindale: Automotive ramp expansion unlocks new capacity

We repurposed terminal space at Melvindale to expand automotive operations.

• Phase one completed in Q1 2025, adding over 300 VIN parking spaces.
• We partnered with our Commercial and Government Relations teams to leverage a multi-million-dollar grant secured through Michigan state support.
• A second phase is underway to add ~1,000 more VIN spaces.

“OEMs (original equipment manufacturers) have a strong need to ship to this market area,” said Janea Parr, Sr. Director Terminal Operations. “This expansion allows our Commercial team to pursue new business and meet growing demand.”

Harrisburg: efficiency gains through track realignment

At Harrisburg, Engineering and Transportation teams completed a track realignment project that has significantly improved switching operations.

• Redesigned layout reducing congestion and improving train flow, allowing for faster turnarounds and better service reliability.
• Close collaboration delivering measurable improvements already being seen in dwell time and throughput.

Toledo: doubling down on automotive throughput

Toledo has also seen a doubling of automotive throughput thanks to targeted infrastructure upgrades. These include:

• Expanded loading and unloading zones, improved lighting and signage, and better coordination with local drayage partners.
• The enhancements have positioned Toledo as a more competitive option for OEMs looking to move volume through the Midwest.

Livernois: intermodal optimization in action

Here we’ve implemented layout and process changes that streamline intermodal operations. These include:

• Gate flow adjustments, container stacking improvements, and better integration with yard management systems.
• The results include faster processing times and a more seamless experience for customers and drivers alike.

Collaboration at the core

Each of these efforts reflects our strong cross-functional collaboration—from Commercial identifying market needs to Operations executing solutions, to Government Relations securing funding. Together, we’re delivering results and positioning NS for continued intermodal growth.