Top 5 Railroad Companies in the World

In this article, we will have a look at the top 5 railroad companies in the world. If you want to see our detailed analysis of railroad companies and their revival, simply head straight to the Top 15 Railroad Companies in the World.

5. CSX Corporation (NASDAQGS:CSX)

2022 Revenue: $14.85 billion  

CSX Corporation (NASDAQGS:CSX) is an American railway company that provides rail, intermodal, and rail-to-truck transload services. The company operates approximately 21,000 miles of track in 23 eastern states, including the major metropolitan areas of Baltimore, Boston, New York, Philadelphia, and Washington D.C.  

CSX’s primary business is transporting goods such as coal, chemicals, automobiles, and agricultural products. The company has been investing in technology and infrastructure to improve its efficiency and reliability, including implementing a precision railroading system that has helped reduce transit times and improve customer service. In terms of financial performance, CSX Corporation (NASDAQGS:CSX) has seen steady revenue growth over the past few years, with total revenue of $15 billion in 2022, an 18.62% increase from 2021, which was $12.522 billion.

4. East Japan Railway 

2022 Revenue: $16.68 billion  

East Japan Railway Corporation (JR East) is a major transportation company in Japan, operating an extensive network of railway lines in the eastern region of the country. The company’s flagship service is the Tohoku Shinkansen, which runs from Tokyo to Aomori and connects with other high-speed rail lines to provide fast and convenient transportation for passengers across Japan.  

In addition to its rail operations, JR East also operates bus and hotel businesses. The company is known for its focus on customer service, with a commitment to punctuality and convenience for passengers. The recent financial reports from East Japan Railway indicate that the company’s revenue in 2022 was $16.68B. The company’s revenue in 2021 was $17.30 billion, down from $18.72 billion in 2020.

3. BNSF Railway

2021 Revenue: $23.2 billion (estimated)  

BNSF Railway is a major freight railroad network in North America, with operations throughout the United States and Canada. The company operates over 32,000 miles of track, serving key markets and connecting to major ports and transportation hubs, and is known for its commitment to safety, efficiency, and innovation, using advanced technologies and data analytics to optimize its operations and provide top-quality service to customers. BNSF transports a wide range of goods, including agricultural products, consumer goods, industrial materials, and energy resources. Statista reports the company’s operating revenue for the fiscal year of 2021 exceeded $23.2 billion.

2. Union Pacific Corporation (NYSE:UNP)

2022 Revenue: $24.87 Billion  

Union Pacific Corporation (NYSE:UNP) is one of the largest freight transportation companies in North America, with a history dating back to 1862. The company operates an extensive network of railroad tracks spanning 32,000 miles across 23 states in the western two-thirds of the United States. Union Pacific Corporation (NYSE:UNP) provides transportation services for a diverse range of commodities, including chemicals, coal, agricultural products, and consumer goods.

1. Deutsche Bahn AG

2021 Revenue: $55 billion (estimated) 

Deutsche Bahn AG is a German railway company that provides passenger and freight transport services across Germany and several other European countries. It is one of the largest railway operators in Europe, with over 300,000 employees, and a vast network of railways, stations, and trains, and offers various services, including regional, intercity, and high-speed trains, as well as bus services, bike rentals, and travel planning.  

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