# Norfolk Southern and Schneider agree new eastern US intermodal partnership

- **Source:** https://pelavox.com/norfolk-southern-and-schneider-agree-new-eastern-us-intermodal-partnership/
- **Publisher:** pelavox. (The voice of shipping)
- **Author:** Helena Pierce
- **Published:** 2026-11-01T10:00:00+00:00
- **Updated:** 2026-10-30T14:14:50+00:00
- **Section:** Business / Partnerships
- **Type:** News
- **Topics:** Container Transport, Domestic Intermodal, Drayage, Freight Transportation, Intermodal Transport, Norfolk Southern, Rail Freight, Rail Infrastructure, Rail Logistics, Schneider, Schneider National, Supply Chain, United States

Norfolk Southern and Schneider National have announced a strategic agreement to expand domestic intermodal transport capacity across the eastern United States, with Schneider transitioning its primary eastern rail provider to Norfolk Southern.

The partnership, announced on 29 October 2026, combines Norfolk Southern’s rail network and terminal infrastructure with Schneider’s container equipment, drayage operations and intermodal logistics services.

The arrangement is intended to provide shippers with broader network access and greater capacity for freight movements combining rail and road transportation. The companies did not disclose the financial terms of the agreement or a timetable for completing Schneider’s transition to Norfolk Southern.

Schneider operates an asset-based intermodal business supported by approximately 26,800 containers and 23,900 chassis, along with company-owned tractors and professional drivers. Its network includes more than 60 intermodal rail hubs across North America, while company drivers undertake more than 90% of its domestic drayage movements.

Michael Baumgardt, Executive Vice President of Intermodal and Logistics at Schneider, said the change in the company’s primary eastern rail provider is intended to expand access to key markets and increase network flexibility.

### Norfolk Southern expands intermodal infrastructure

Norfolk Southern operates an intermodal network across 22 US states and has been investing in terminal capacity, rail connections and operating infrastructure to support future freight growth.

The railway reported a 3% increase in intermodal volumes during the third quarter of 2026, supported by consumer demand, developments in the trucking market and network improvements.

Its ongoing investment programme includes a new rail service between Cincinnati and Atlanta, double-stack clearance improvements along the East Edge route connecting the Midwest and New England, and intermodal terminal expansions in Ohio, Michigan, North Carolina and Illinois.

Additional improvements are underway at facilities serving Atlanta, Louisville, Harrisburg, Croxton, Chesapeake, Charlotte, Chicago and St. Louis. These projects include upgrades to storage areas, pavement, truck access, maintenance facilities, lighting and security systems.

Ed Elkins, Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer at Norfolk Southern, said the agreement combines the railway’s network and terminal capacity with Schneider’s transport equipment, logistics operations and customer relationships.

The companies expect the partnership to support growth in domestic intermodal services and provide additional opportunities to shift suitable long-distance freight movements from road-only transportation to combined rail and road operations.

The announcement does not specify which existing Schneider routes will be transferred first or identify any new dedicated services resulting directly from the agreement.

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Cite as: "Norfolk Southern and Schneider agree new eastern US intermodal partnership", pelavox., 1 November 2026, https://pelavox.com/norfolk-southern-and-schneider-agree-new-eastern-us-intermodal-partnership/