CSX Service Woes Draw Scrutiny Ahead of STB Hearing

CSX Service Woes Draw Scrutiny Ahead of STB Hearing

CSX Transportation released service improvement data ahead of an STB hearing, but customer experiences remain mixed. This article analyzes the truth behind the data, real customer feedback, and the controversy surrounding the PSR strategy. It emphasizes that CSX needs to strike a balance between efficiency and service, and rebuilding customer trust is its long-term task. The article delves into the challenges CSX faces in maintaining operational efficiency while addressing persistent concerns about service reliability and responsiveness to customer needs.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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STB Extends Deadline for Rail Switching Rule Amid Industry Debate

STB Extends Deadline for Rail Switching Rule Amid Industry Debate

The U.S. Surface Transportation Board (STB) has extended the deadline for comments on its reciprocal switching rule, intended to provide shippers underserved by freight railroads access to other rail carriers. The proposed rule introduces three performance metrics to quantify service quality, sparking industry debate about breaking up monopolies versus disrupting the market. Whether the rule can be effectively implemented to improve transportation efficiency and reduce costs remains a challenge and requires further observation. The rule aims to address issues faced by rail freight shippers and potentially improve competition within the industry.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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STB Proposes US Rail Freight Reforms to Cut Shipper Costs

STB Proposes US Rail Freight Reforms to Cut Shipper Costs

The U.S. Surface Transportation Board (STB) has introduced two proposals aimed at helping rail freight users reduce costs and break the rail freight monopoly by reforming rate dispute resolution mechanisms and promoting inter-railroad competition. The proposals simplify the rate challenge process, lower the threshold for shippers to protect their rights, and consider adopting NITL's competitive switching proposal to secure more rights for shippers. These changes intend to make rate challenges more accessible and potentially increase competition among rail carriers, ultimately benefiting shippers.

01/22/2026 Logistics
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STB Implements Reciprocal Switching Rule to Reduce Rail Freight Delays

STB Implements Reciprocal Switching Rule to Reduce Rail Freight Delays

The U.S. Surface Transportation Board (STB) proposes a reciprocal switching rule to address rail service challenges faced by shippers. The new rule would allow shippers to choose alternative rail carriers when existing carriers fail to meet service standards. It defines service evaluation metrics, simplifies the application process, and aims to break rail monopolies, improve service levels, and ultimately enhance freight efficiency. This initiative seeks to provide shippers with greater options and ensure reliable rail service by promoting competition within the rail industry.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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STB to Rule on CNCP Rail Battle for KCS Supremacy

STB to Rule on CNCP Rail Battle for KCS Supremacy

The U.S. Surface Transportation Board (STB) is reviewing the proposed merger between Canadian National Railway (CN) and Kansas City Southern (KCS), focusing on the voting trust agreement. This merger is a competition between CN and Canadian Pacific Railway (CP). The STB's decision will determine who ultimately controls the railway network connecting the three largest economies in North America, impacting regional trade and the competitive landscape of the industry.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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STB Scrutinizes Union Pacifics Rail Reforms to Safeguard Supply Chains

STB Scrutinizes Union Pacifics Rail Reforms to Safeguard Supply Chains

Union Pacific's ongoing transformation to Precision Scheduled Railroading (PSR) has garnered significant attention. To prevent service disruptions, the STB and Union Pacific have agreed to hold weekly meetings. Union Pacific has committed to transparent communication and phased implementation, while the STB will actively monitor the process. This collaboration aims to ensure the stability and reliability of rail transport services, ultimately improving supply chain efficiency and promoting regional economic development. The focus is on a smooth transition to PSR while maintaining service levels.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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Unions React to Union Pacificnorfolk Southern Merger Proposal

Unions React to Union Pacificnorfolk Southern Merger Proposal

The proposed $85 billion merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern is under scrutiny, with labor unions expressing concerns about job security and fair treatment. The Surface Transportation Board (STB) will conduct a comprehensive review, balancing the interests of all stakeholders. The merger aims to enhance efficiency and improve service, with the anticipation of collaborative success and a new chapter in rail freight. The unions' perspective on job protection and equitable conditions will be a key factor in the STB's decision.

01/15/2026 Logistics
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Stbs New Rules Aim to Ease Rail Freight Rate Disputes

Stbs New Rules Aim to Ease Rail Freight Rate Disputes

The US Surface Transportation Board (STB) has introduced two new rules to streamline railway freight rate dispute resolution, including a voluntary arbitration program and Final Offer Rate Review (FORR). However, the Association of American Railroads (AAR) strongly opposes these rules, citing “fatal flaws” in FORR and arguing the arbitration rules are “backwards.” Whether these new regulations will bring relief to shippers remains challenging, and shippers need to carefully assess the implications. The future impact of these regulations is uncertain amidst ongoing debate and potential legal challenges.

01/16/2026 Logistics
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Regulators Probe Union Pacificnorfolk Southern Merger After Shareholder Vote

Regulators Probe Union Pacificnorfolk Southern Merger After Shareholder Vote

The proposed merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern has been approved by shareholders with a high vote. However, the merger's future is uncertain due to regulatory scrutiny, opposition from competitors, and concerns from shippers. While the merger could potentially improve efficiency and reduce costs, it also raises concerns about increased market concentration. The Surface Transportation Board's (STB) review will be crucial in determining the merger's fate and will have a profound impact on the US freight landscape. The STB's decision will weigh the potential benefits against the risks of reduced competition.

01/17/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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