New to Rail Shipping? Start Here.

Rail shipping may feel complex at first—but it doesn’t have to be. This guide explains the basics of how freight rail works, what information you’ll need to get started, and what to expect throughout the process.

Learn how rail shipping works

The BNSF Rail Advantage

Nationwide reach

With 32,500 route-miles of track across North America, BNSF connects businesses to key markets and helps customers access the efficiency benefits of our rail network.

Explore our network and tools

Cost efficiency

BNSF offers cost-efficient shipping options for businesses of all sizes, from individual railcars to dedicated trains and intermodal solutions.

Explore cost efficiency

Reliable capacity

Moving freight requires reliability you can count on. With BNSF, multiple truckloads can move in a single railcar and multiple containers can move on a single train - delivering consistent, efficient and flexible shipping.

Discover reliable rail shipping

Sustainable shipping

Rail moves more freight with less fuel. In 2025, BNSF customers avoided 24.3 million metric tons of CO2e, equal to removing more than 5.7 million vehicles from the road.

Explore sustainability

Tracey Sanders

Cesar Ortiz

Grace Morrison

Meet your rail shipping experts

Our rail sales team helps you understand your options, evaluate transportation solutions and build a plan that supports your business goals.

Connect with a rail shipping expert

How it works

Moving your freight by rail

Shipping by rail involves several steps, but you do not have to manage them alone. BNSF works with you from planning through delivery so you understand what to expect at every stage.

Our industry solutions

How it works

Moving your freight by rail

Shipping by rail involves several steps, but you do not have to manage them alone. BNSF works with you from planning through delivery so you understand what to expect at every stage.

Our industry solutions

Every shipment starts with the basics:

What you're shipping
Where it needs to go
When it needs to arrive
Your commodity type, volume, and timing needs
Any special handling requirements

These details help us develop a transportation plan that fits your business needs.

Every shipment starts with the basics:

What you're shipping
Where it needs to go
When it needs to arrive
Your commodity type, volume, and timing needs
Any special handling requirements

These details help us develop a transportation plan that fits your business needs.

Working with BNSF

How we get you shipping

Getting started with rail shipping is easier than you may expect. We'll help you understand requirements, evaluate options and connect with the right tools and support.