
Class I railroads
Class I Railroads are the largest freight railroads in the United States, classified by the Surface Transportation Board based on their operating revenue. They play a crucial role in the national economy, transporting goods across long distances efficiently. Class I Railroads typically include major companies like Union Pacific, BNSF Railway, and CSX. These railroads own and operate extensive track networks, and they are vital for moving bulk commodities like coal, agricultural products, and manufactured goods, contributing to both domestic trade and global supply chains. Their size and operational scale distinguish them from smaller regional and local railroads.