Math, Not Myth: The Numbers Don't Support the Narrative - Creating America’s First Transcontinental Railroad

Math, Not Myth: The Numbers Don’t Support the Narrative

Math, Not Myth: The Numbers Don’t Support the Narrative

Author: Union Pacific | September 28, 2026
Math, Not Myth: Combined Union Pacific–Norfolk Southern share of U.S. freight is approximately 40% of ton-miles and 43% of carloadings, based on 2025 data.

Math, not myth. The “50% market share” claim doesn’t hold up when you look at the actual data. Using standard industry measurements and removing duplicate Union Pacific-Norfolk Southern traffic, a combined railroad will account for approximately 40% of U.S. ton-miles and 43% of U.S. carloadings. The numbers aren’t in dispute. The narrative is. That’s why we’re showing our work and sharing the calculations behind the facts.

Please review Union Pacific’s cautionary note regarding forward-looking statements.

Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern locomotives pulling an intermodal train through grassy hills.

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