Norfolk Southern’s intermodal business is growing, and we are investing to make sure our network is ready for what comes next. In the second quarter of 2026, NS intermodal volumes grew 5%, supported by steady consumer demand, favorable truck-market dynamics, and a consistent service product. At the same time, U.S. rail intermodal volume was up 5.7% year over year for the week ending Aug. 29, underscoring broader market momentum.
This article explores infrastructure investments shaping the future of our intermodal franchise.
Investing ahead of customer growth
NS’ intermodal strategy starts with a simple idea: Customers are taking a broader view of intermodal than ever before, weighing how it can strengthen their entire supply chain from gateway strategy and inland distribution to capacity planning, sustainability and resilience. Our job is to anticipate when and where growth is coming and invest ahead of it.
That approach is working. Our domestic intermodal team recently delivered its highest monthly EMP volume since November 2018, moving more freight through a faster, better-coordinated network. In fact, we’ve improved asset utilization by about 15% since 2023.
We are putting those gains back into the network. For example, NS is adding locomotive power, focusing on the mechanical workforce that keeps that power moving, expanding our equipment fleet with chassis and hybrid cranes, and improving automated gate capabilities. The infrastructure investments in this article are part of what allows us to keep saying yes to growth.
Opening new gateways
Gainesville Inland Port
Georgia
The Georgia Ports Authority’s Gainesville Inland Port, exclusively served by NS, is now onboarding customers and capable of handling 200,000 container lifts at full ramp-up.
South Carolina
NS is helping advance projects such as a new Southern Connector, which will provide unhindered access to the Navy Base Intermodal Facility in Charleston.
New England
We recently completed a major double-stack clearance project, connecting the Midwest and New England with what we call the East Edge route. Freight can now move up to 10 hours faster. The route also doubles capacity in a historically constrained lane and underserved freight market.
Expanding capacity in hot markets
As demand evolves, NS is expanding capacity at key intermodal hubs where customers need more room to grow. Across Ohio, North Carolina, Michigan and Illinois, projects at terminals in Rickenbacker, Sharonville, Toledo, Charlotte, Livernois and Chicago are increasing terminal readiness and supporting long-term demand.
Strengthening reliability and everyday terminal performance
Austell Intermodal Facility
Beyond major expansions, NS is also investing in the reliable terminal performance customers depend on every day. In Atlanta; Louisville, Kentucky; Harrisburg, Pennsylvania; Croxton, New Jersey; Chesapeake, Virginia; Charlotte, North Carolina; Chicago; and St. Louis, upgrades to pavement, lighting, storage areas, maintenance facilities and truck access routes help improve safety, reduce friction and create a more predictable experience.
Protecting the integrity of customer shipments
We are also enhancing security across our network to better protect customer shipments, especially high-value freight. At key terminals, these investments include strengthened perimeter fencing, T-bar guardrails, crash-rated gate systems and actively monitored cameras that provide greater visibility across terminal operations. Together, these measures help deter unauthorized access, improve situational awareness, protect employees and safeguard our customers’ freight as it moves through our network.
A customer-first mindset
From Georgia to Michigan and from key port gateways to critical inland hubs, NS is building the infrastructure that will support the next era of intermodal growth, and we are constantly evaluating and responding to market conditions with customer-centric offerings. For example, this year we’ve launched bidirectional service between Cincinnati <> Atlanta (Domestic) as well as North Alabama <> Charleston (International). Ship with us today to take advantage of the most extensive intermodal network on the East Coast.
Key points
Norfolk Southern’s Q2 2026 intermodal volumes grew 5%, supported by consumer demand, favorable truck-market conditions and a consistent service product.
Domestic intermodal recently delivered its highest monthly EMP volume since November 2018, and NS has improved asset utilization by about 15% since 2023.
NS is investing across its 22-state intermodal network to increase capacity, improve reliability and driver turn times, strengthen port access and protect customer freight.
Major projects span Georgia to Michigan, including a new inland port in Gainesville, and expansions at Rickenbacker (Columbus), Charlotte, Sharonville, Toledo, Livernois (Detroit) and Chicago.
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@2026 Norfolk Southern Corp.
650 W. Peachtree Street NW
Atlanta, Georgia 30308
@2026 Norfolk Southern Corp.
650 W. Peachtree Street NW
Atlanta, Georgia 30308
