Defined Contribution Pension and Other Postretirement Plans Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table]
Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table]
Defined Benefit Plan, Asset Categories [Axis]
Defined Benefit Plan, Asset Categories [Axis]
Plan Asset Categories [Domain]
Plan Asset Categories [Domain]
Equity Securities
Equity Securities [Member]
Debt Securities
Debt Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis]
Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis]
Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain]
Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain]
Fair Value Inputs Level 2
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Axis]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Axis]
Defined Benefit Plans [Domain]
Defined Benefit Plan and Other Postretirement Benefit Plan [Domain]
Pension Benefits
Pension Plan, Defined Benefit [Member]
OPEB
Other Postretirement Benefit Plan, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Discount rate - assumption
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Discount Rate
Defined benefit plan's accumulated benefit obligation
Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Benefit Obligation
Unfunded pension plans projected benefit obligation
Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plans with Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets, Aggregate Projected Benefit Obligation
Unfunded pension plans accumulated benefit obligations
Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plans with Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets, Aggregate Accumulated Benefit Obligation
Estimated net loss for defined pension plans amortized from AOCI into net periodic cost
Defined Benefit Plan, Amount to be Amortized from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Next Fiscal Year
Assumed increases in per capita cost of covered health care benefits
Defined Benefit Plan, Health Care Cost Trend Rate Assumed for Next Fiscal Year
Ultimate health care cost trend rate
Defined Benefit Plan, Ultimate Health Care Cost Trend Rate
Pension plan assets target allocation for equity
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations
Postretirement benefit plan target asset allocation for equity, minimum
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Range Minimum
Postretirement benefit plan target asset allocation for equity, maximum
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Range Maximum
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Expected Long-term Return on Assets Recognition Period
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Expected Long-term Return on Assets Recognition Period
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Expected Long-term Return on Assets Recognition Period
Assumed rate of return on pension plan assets
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Expected Long-term Return on Assets
One-percentage point change to rate of return change to net pension (benefit) cost
Defined Benefit Plan Effect Of One Percentage Point Change In Assumed Rate Of Return On Plan Assets
Effect of a one-percentage-point change in the assumed rate of return on pension plan assets.
Trust-owned life insurance fair value
Trust Owned Life Insurance Fair Value
The fair value of trust-owned life insurance related to postretirement benefit plan assets as of the reporting period.
Expected contribution for the next fiscal year
Defined Benefit Plans, Estimated Future Employer Contributions in Next Fiscal Year
Multi-employer benefit plan premiums
Multiemployer Plan, Period Contributions
Section 401 (k) savings plans matching contributions
Section 4 0 1 K Savings Plans Matching Contributions
Amount as of the reporting period of employee contributions under Section 401(K) savings plans that the company matches.
Other Income and Expenses [Abstract]
Royalties from coal
Royalty Revenue from Coal
Nonoperating depletion and depreciation
Nonoperating Depletion And Depreciation
Amount of depletion and depreciation associated with nonopertaing assets recorded in "Other income".
Subtotal
Royalty Income, Nonoperating
Rental income
Rental Income, Nonoperating
Corporate-owned life insurance – net
Life Insurance, Corporate or Bank Owned, Change in Value
Gains and losses from sale of properties
Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Property Plant Equipment, Excluding Oil and Gas Property and Timber Property
Interest income
Investment Income, Interest
Equity in earnings of Conrail Inc.
Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments
Taxes on nonoperating property
Taxes, Other
Charitable contributions
Charitable Contributions
Value of contributions made to charitable organizations
Other interest expense – net
Interest Expense, Other
Other
Other Income (Expense), Net
Other Income (Expense), Net
Total
Other Nonoperating Income (Expense)
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table]
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table]
Long-term Debt, Type [Axis]
Long-term Debt, Type [Axis]
Long-term Debt, Type [Domain]
Long-term Debt, Type [Domain]
6.21% maturing to 2019
Debt Maturing To Two Thousand Nineteen [Member]
Debt Maturing To Two Thousand Nineteen [Member]
6.27% maturing 2020 to 2021
Debt Maturing Two Thousand Twenty To Two Thousand Twenty One [Member]
Debt Maturing Two Thousand Twenty And Two Thousand Twenty One [Member]
3.22% maturing 2022 to 2024
Debt Maturing Two Thousand Twenty Two To Two Thousand Twenty Four [Member]
Debt Maturing Two Thousand Twenty Two To Two Thousand Twenty Four [Member]
6.92% maturing 2025 to 2037
Debt Maturing Two Thousand Twenty Five To Two Thousand Thirty Seven [Member]
Debt Maturing Two Thousand Twenty Five To Two Thousand Thirty One [Member]
4.81% maturing 2041 to 2043
Debt Maturing Two Thousand Forty One To Two Thousand Forty Three [Member]
Debt Maturing Two Thousand Thirty Seven To Two Thousand Forty Three [Member]
6.39% maturing 2097 to 2111
Debt Maturing Two Thousand Ninety Seven To Twenty One Thousand Eleven [Member]
Debt Maturing Two Thousand Ninety Seven To Twenty One Thousand Eleven [Member]
Securitization borrowings, 1.28%
Securitization Borrowings [Member]
Securitization Borrowings [Member]
Other debt, 8.14% maturing to 2024
Other Debt [Member]
Other Debt [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate
Long-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate
Debt maturing
Debt Maturing Value
Amount of debt maturing.
Securitization borrowings, 1.28%
Accounts Receivable Securitization Balance
The balance as of the reporting period of the amount owed by the reporting entity to counterparties in securitized loan transactions.
Other debt, 8.14% maturing to 2024
Other Long-term Debt
Discounts and premiums, net
Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount (Premium), Net
Total debt
Debt, Long-term and Short-term, Combined Amount
Less current maturities and short-term debt
Long-Term Debt Capital Lease Obligations And Short-Term Debt, Current
Obligation related to long-term debt (excluding convertible debt), capital leases and short-term debt, the portion which is due in one year or less in the future.
2016
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two
2017
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three
2018
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four
2019
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five
2020 and subsequent years
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five
Long-term debt
Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations
Equity [Abstract]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block]
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Of Equity Investees
Schedule Of Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block]
Schedule Of Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block]
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Prepaid Taxes
Prepaid Taxes
Change in valuation allowance
Valuation Allowance, Deferred Tax Asset, Change in Amount
Unrecognized tax benefits that would impact effective tax rate
Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate
Unrecognized tax benefits, period decrease
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Period Increase (Decrease)
Interest expense (income) related to unrecognized tax benefits
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Interest on Income Taxes Expense
Interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Interest on Income Taxes Accrued
One-percentage point increase change in total service and interest cost components
Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Increase on Service and Interest Cost Components
One-percentage point decrease change total service and interest cost components
Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Decrease on Service and Interest Cost Components
One-percentage point increase change in postretirement benefit obligations
Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Increase on Accumulated Postretirement Benefit Obligation
One-percentage point decrease change in postretirement benefit obligations
Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Decrease on Accumulated Postretirement Benefit Obligation
Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract]
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract]
Net income
Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Reconciliation of net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract]
Depreciation
Depreciation
Deferred income taxes
Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Gains and losses on properties and investments
Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Assets
Changes in assets and liabilities affecting operations:
Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract]
Accounts receivable
Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Receivable
Materials and supplies
Increase (Decrease) in Materials and Supplies
Other current assets
Increase (Decrease) in Other Current Assets
Current liabilities other than debt
Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Liabilities
Other – net
Other Operating Activities, Cash Flow Statement
Net cash provided by operating activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities
Cash flows from investing activities:
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract]
Property additions
Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment
Property sales and other transactions
Proceeds from Sale of Property, Plant, and Equipment
Investments, including short-term
Payments to Acquire Investments
Investment sales and other transactions
Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities
Net cash used in investing activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities
Cash flows from financing activities:
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract]
Dividends
Payments of Ordinary Dividends, Common Stock
Common Stock issued
Proceeds From Stock Options Exercised Including Tax Benefit
Proceeds From Stock Options Exercised, Including Tax Benefit.
Purchase and retirement of Common Stock
Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock
Proceeds from borrowings – net
Proceeds from Debt, Net of Issuance Costs
Debt repayments
Repayments of Debt and Capital Lease Obligations
Net cash used in financing activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease)
Cash and cash equivalents:
Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value [Abstract]
At beginning of year
Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value
At end of year
Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information:
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract]
Interest (net of amounts capitalized)
Interest Paid, Net
Income taxes (net of refunds)
Income Taxes Paid, Net
Payables and Accruals [Abstract]
Current Liabilities
Schedule of Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities [Table Text Block]
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Table]
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Table]
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Table]
Class of Stock [Axis]
Class of Stock [Axis]
Class of Stock [Domain]
Class of Stock [Domain]
Earnings Per Share, Basic
E P S Basic [Member]
The amount of earnings for the period available to each share of common stock outstanding during the reporting period.
Earnings Per Share, Diluted
E P S Diluted [Member]
Earnings (net income) per diluted share.
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items]
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items]
[Line Items] for Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Table]
Net income
Dividend equivalent payments, Basic & Diluted
Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), Dividends Paid to ESOP
Income available to common stockholder's, Basic
Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic
Income available to common stockholder's, Diluted
Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Diluted
Weighted-average shares outstanding, Basic
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic
Dilutive effect of outstanding options and share-settled awards
Weighted Average Number Diluted Shares Outstanding Adjustment
Adjusted weighted-average shares outstanding, Diluted
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted
Earnings Per Share, Basic
Earnings Per Share, Basic
Earnings Per Share, Diluted
Earnings Per Share, Diluted
Options With Exercise Prices Above Average Market Price
Options With Exercise Prices Above Average Market Price
Number of options having exercise prices exceeding the average market price of Common Stock.
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Pensions and other postretirement liabilities, beginning of the year
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net of Tax
Pensions and other post retirement liabilities, net gain (loss)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Unamortized Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, Net of Tax
Pensions and other postretirement liabilities, reclassification adjustments
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, for Net (Gain) Loss, Net of Tax
Pensions and other postretirement liabilities, end of year
Other comprehensive gain (loss) of equity investments, beginning of period
Other Comprehensive Income Loss Of Equity Investees Net Of Tax
Other Comprehensive Income Loss Of Equity Investees Net Of Tax
Other comprehensive gain (loss) of equity investments, net gain (loss)
Other Comprehensive Income Loss Of Equity Investees Net Gain Loss
Other Comprehensive Income Loss Of Equity Investees Net Gain Loss
Other comprehensive gain (loss) of equity investments, end of period
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, beginning of period
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net gain (loss)
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Net Gain Loss
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Net Gain Loss
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, reclassification adjustments
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Reclassification Adjustments
Accumulated other comprehensive gain (loss) reclassifications adjustments.
Accumulated other comprehensive loss period end, end of period
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Description of Business
Basis of Accounting, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Use of Estimates
Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Revenue Recognition
Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Cash Equivalents
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Allowance For Doubtful Accounts
Receivables, Trade and Other Accounts Receivable, Allowance for Doubtful Accounts, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Materials And Supplies
Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Investments
Investment, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Properties
Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Required Accounting Changes
New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Stock Repurchase Program [Abstract]
Stock Repurchase Program
Treasury Stock [Text Block]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Table]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Table]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain]
Land
Land [Member]
Rail and other track material
Railroad Transportation Equipment [Member]
Ties
Ties [Member]
Value of ties held for productive use.
Ballast
Ballast [Member]
Amount represents ballast held for productive use.
Construction in process
Construction In Process Roadway [Member]
Construction in Process Roadway [Member]
Other roadway
Other Roadway [Member]
Value of other roadway assets held for productive use
Total roadway
Total Roadway [Member]
Value of total roadway assets held for productive use.
Locomotives
Locomotives [Member]
Value of locomotives held for productive use.
Freight cars
Freight Cars [Member]
Value of freight cars held for productive use.
Computers and software
Technology Equipment [Member]
Construction in process
Construction In Process Equipment [Member]
This element is used to disclose construction in process related to equipment held for productive use.
Other equipment
Other Machinery and Equipment [Member]
Total equipment
Equipment [Member]
Other property
Other Property [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Cost
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross
Accumulated Depreciation
Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment
Net Book Value
Property, Plant and Equipment, Net
Depreciation Rate
Depreciation Rate
Represents the rate of depreciation applied to a particular asset class
Stockholders' Equity
Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block]
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Railway operating revenues
Revenues
Income from railway operations
Operating Income (Loss)
Earnings Per Share, Basic
Earnings Per Share, Diluted
2015
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Next Twelve Months
2016
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Two
2017
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Three
2018
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Four
2019
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Five
Years 2020 - 2024
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Five Fiscal Years Thereafter
Current:
Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract]
Federal
Current Federal Tax Expense (Benefit)
State
Current State and Local Tax Expense (Benefit)
Total current taxes
Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Deferred:
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense [Abstract]
Federal
Deferred Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
State
Deferred State and Local Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Total deferred taxes
Provision for income taxes
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Investments [Abstract]
Schedule of Investments [Table]
Schedule of Investments [Table]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, by Type [Axis]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, by Type [Axis]
Summary of Investments, by Type [Domain]
Summary of Investments, by Type [Domain]
Commercial paper, 2 months
Commercial Paper [Member]
Federal government bonds, held-to-maturity, 3 months
US Treasury Bond Securities [Member]
Eligible Item or Group for Fair Value Option [Axis]
Eligible Item or Group for Fair Value Option [Axis]
Fair Value, Option, Eligible Item or Group [Domain]
Fair Value, Option, Eligible Item or Group [Domain]
Conrail Inc.
Conrail Inc [Member]
Jointly owned LLC between NS and CSX that is treated by NS as an equity method investee
TTX Company
T T X Company [Member]
TTX Company [Member]
Meridian Speedway LLC
Meridian Speedway Llc [Member]
Meridian Speedway LLC [Member]
Pan Am Southern LLC
Pan Am Southern Llc [Member]
Pan Am Southern LLC [Member]
Other
Other Long-term Investments [Member]
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Held-to-maturity securities
Held-to-maturity Securities
Total short-term investments
Short-term Investments
Equity Method Investments
Equity Method Investments
Company-owned life insurance at net cash surrender value
Cash Surrender Value of Life Insurance
Other investments
Other Investments
Total long-term investments
Long-term Investments
Held To Maturity Commercial Paper Maturity Date
Held To Maturity Commercial Paper Maturity Date
The average maturity date in months of held to maturity commercial paper.
Average federal government bonds held-to-maturity, months
Held To Maturity Federal Government Bond Maturity Date
The average maturity date in months of held-to-maturity federal government bonds.
Quarterly Financial Data
Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block]
Investments
Investment [Table Text Block]
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Properties, accumulated depreciation
Common stock, par or stated value per share
Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share
Common stock, shares authorized
Common Stock, Shares Authorized
Common stock, shares outstanding, net of treasury shares
Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding
Funded Status
Funded Status [Member]
Status of the company's defined pension benefits
Other Postretirement Benefits Funded Status
Other Postretirement Benefits Funded Status [Member]
Other Postretirement Benefits Funded Status
Return on assets in plans - assumption
Future salary increases - assumption
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Rate of Compensation Increase
Health care trend rate
Defined Benefit Plan Assumed Health Care Cost Trend Rate
Defined Benefit Plan Assumed Health Care Cost Trend Rate
Domestic equity securities
Pension Plan Asset Allocation Domestic Equity Securities
This element is used to disclose the percentage of allocation of pension plan assets to domestic equity securities.
Debt securities
Pension Plan Asset Allocation Debt Securities
This element is used to disclose the percentage of allocation of pension plan assets to debt securities.
International equity securities
Pension Plan Asset Allocation International Equity Securities
This element is used to disclose the percentage of allocation of pension plan assets to international equity securities.
Cash and cash equivalents
Pension Plan Asset Allocation Cash And Cash Equivalents
This element is used to disclose the percentage allocation of pension plan assets to cash and cash equivalents.
Total
Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract]
Statement [Table]
Statement [Table]
Equity Components [Axis]
Equity Components [Axis]
Equity Component [Domain]
Equity Component [Domain]
Common Stock
Common Stock [Member]
Additional Paid-In Capital
Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]
Retained Income
Retained Earnings [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Statement [Line Items]
Beginning Balance
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Other comprehensive income
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax
Total comprehensive income
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Dividends on Common Stock ($1.94, $2.04 and $2.22 for years ended 2012, 2013 and 2014, respectively)
Dividends, Common Stock, Cash
Share repurchases
Stock Repurchased and Retired During Period, Value
Stock-based compensation, including tax benefit ($42, $38 and $37 for years ended 2012, 2013 and 2014, respectively)
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures
Other
Stockholders' Equity, Other
Ending Balance
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments And Contingencies
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block]
Other Liabilities Disclosure [Abstract]
Other Liabilities
Other Liabilities [Table Text Block]
Provisions For Income Taxes
Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block]
Reconciliation Of Statutory Rate To Effective Rate
Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block]
Schedule Of Deferred Tax Assets And Liabilities
Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block]
Reconciliation Of Unrecognized Tax Benefits
Summary of Income Tax Contingencies [Table Text Block]
Service cost
Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost
Interest cost
Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost
Expected return on plan assets
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return on Plan Assets
Amortization of net losses
Defined Benefit Plan, Future Amortization of Gain (Loss)
Amortization of prior service cost
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Prior Service Cost (Credit)
Net cost
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table]
Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table]
Plan Name [Axis]
Plan Name [Axis]
Plan Name [Domain]
Plan Name [Domain]
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs)
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]
Performance Share Units (PSUs)
Performance Shares [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Schedule Of Assumptions Used For LTIP And TSOP Grants
Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Stock Options, Valuation Assumptions [Table Text Block]
Schedule Of Stock Option Activity
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity [Table Text Block]
Summary Of Stock Options Exercised
Schedule of Cash Proceeds Received from Share-based Payment Awards [Table Text Block]
Schedule Of Other Share Activity
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Activity [Table Text Block]
Schedule Of Stock Available For Future Grants
Disclosure of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table Text Block]
Ltip
Employee Stock Option [Member]
TSOP
Tsop [Member]
Norfolk Southern Corporation Thoroughbred Stock Option Plan [Member].
LTIP And TSOP
Ltip And Tsop [Member]
Incentive award plans for employees (Long-term Incentive Plan and Thoroughbred Stock Option Plan)
Expected volatility rate, minimum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate, Minimum
Expected volatility rate, maximum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate, Maximum
Average expected volatility rate
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Weighted Average Volatility Rate
Average risk-free interest rate
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate
Average expected option term, in years
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term
Option per share grant-date fair value
Share-Based Compensation Arrangement By Share-Based Payment Award, Options, Grants In Period Grant Date Fair Value
The grant-date fair value of options granted during the reporting period as calculated by applying the disclosed option pricing methodology.
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Net of Forfeitures
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Net of Forfeitures
Income Taxes
Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block]
Receivables securitization facility - total to be borrowed
Accounts Receivable Securitization Total Facility
Total amount available under the Accounts Receivable Securitization Facility.
Proceeds from Short-term Debt
Proceeds from Short-term Debt
Repayments of short-term debt
Repayments of Short-term Debt
Accounts receivable securitization balance
Average variable interest rate
Short-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate
Intent to refinance
Intent To Refinance
The amount the company intends to refinance under the accounts receivable securitization program.
Credit agreement
Credit Agreement
Amount as of the balance sheet date that the company has the ability to borrow at prevailing rates through a credit agreement.
Short-term Debt
Short-term Debt
Account Receivable Securitization Facility Term Years
Account Receivable Securitization Facility Term Years
The term, in years, of the Accounts Receivable Securitization Facility.
Collateral for securitization borrowings
Transfers Accounted for as Secured Borrowings, Assets, Carrying Amount
Authority to issue debt/equity securities
Authority To Issue Debt Equity Securities
The authority the Company has from the Board of Directors to issue additional debt or equity securities through public or private sale.
Credit agreement term, years
Credit Agreement Term Years
The term of the credit agreement the company has in place.
Credit agreement due date, year
Credit Agreement, Due Date Year
Credit Agreement, Due Date Year
Performance Share Units (PSUs)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward]
Balance at December 31, 2013
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number
Granted
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period
Performance share units earned - paid in Common Stock
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other Than Options, Earned And Paid In Common Stock
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other Than Options, Earned And Paid In Common Stock
Vested
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period
Unearned
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other Than Options, Unearned
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other Than Options, Unearned
Forfeited
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period
Balance at December 31, 2014
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value [Abstract]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value [Abstract]
Weighted-average grant-date fair value at December 31, 2013
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Weighted-average grant-date fair value of shares granted
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Weighted-average grant-date fair value of shares vested
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Weighted-average grant-date fair value of shares earned - paid in Common Stock
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other Than Options, Earned And Paid In Common Stock, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other Than Options, Earned And Paid In Common Stock, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Weighted-average grant-date fair value of shares unearned
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other Than Options, Unearned, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other Than Options, Unearned, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Weighted-average grant-date fair value of shares forfeited
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeitures, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Weighted-average grant-date fair value at December 31, 2014
Debt With Interest Rates And Maturities
Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward]
Stock options outstanding at December 31, 2013
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number
Stock options granted
Stock options exercised
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period
Stock options forfeited
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures and Expirations in Period
Stock options outstanding at December 31, 2014
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price [Abstract]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price [Abstract]
Weighted average exercise price of stock options outstanding at December 31, 2013
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Weighted average exercise price of stock options granted
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Weighted average exercise price of stock options exercised
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Weighted average exercise price of stock options forfeited
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures and Expirations in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Weighted average exercise price of stock options outstanding at December 31, 2014
Stock-Based Compensation
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block]
Properties
Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block]
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value
Fair Value, Measurement Inputs, Disclosure [Text Block]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table]
Fair Value Inputs Level 1
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Long-term investments, fair value
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Fair Value
Long-term debt, including current maturities, fair value
Debt Instrument, Fair Value Disclosure
Treasury Stock, Number of Shares Held
Treasury Stock, Number of Shares Held
Treasury Stock, Value
Treasury Stock, Value
Assets
Assets [Abstract]
Cash and cash equivalents
Short-term investments
Accounts receivable – net
Accounts Receivable, Net, Current
Materials and supplies
Materials and supplies
Aggregate carrying amount, as of the balance sheet date, of unapplied materials and supplies to be used in the performance or support of carrier operations.
Deferred income taxes
Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance, Current
Other current assets
Other Assets, Current
Total current assets
Assets, Current
Investments
Properties less accumulated depreciation of $10,814 and $10,387 respectively
Other assets
Other Assets, Noncurrent
Total assets
Assets
Liabilities and stockholdersʼ equity
Liabilities and Equity [Abstract]
Accounts payable
Accounts Payable, Current
Short-term debt
Income and other taxes
Taxes Payable, Current
Other current liabilities
Other Liabilities, Current
Current maturities of long-term debt
Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Current
Total current liabilities
Liabilities, Current
Long-term debt
Other liabilities
Other Liabilities, Noncurrent
Deferred income taxes
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Noncurrent
Total liabilities
Liabilities
Stockholdersʼ equity:
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]
Common stock $1.00 per share par value, 1,350,000,000 shares authorized; outstanding 308,240,130 and 308,878,402 shares, respectively, net of treasury shares
Common Stock, Value, Outstanding
Additional paid-in capital
Additional Paid in Capital
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
Retained income
Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit)
Total stockholdersʼ equity
Total liabilities and stockholdersʼ equity
Liabilities and Equity
Income Statement [Abstract]
Railway operating revenues
Railway operating expenses:
Operating Expenses [Abstract]
Compensation and benefits
Labor and Related Expense
Purchased services and rents
Purchased services and rents
The amount of expense for contract services provided to the Company and rent paid for freight cars owned by other railroads or private companies net of rents received, including lease expenses, primarily for locomotives, railcars, containers, and trailers.
Fuel
Fuel Costs
Depreciation
Cost of Services, Depreciation
Materials and other
Materials and other
Materials and other operating expenses not separately disclosed. This element is used when other, more specific, elements are not appropriate.
Total railway operating expenses
Operating Expenses
Income from railway operations
Other income – net
Interest expense on debt
Interest Expense
Provision for income taxes
Net income
Per share amounts:
Properties
Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block]
Quarterly Financial Data
Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block]
Accounts and wages payable
Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities, Current
Casualty and other claims (Note 16)
Casualty And Other Claims Current
Amount of obligations incurred and payable related to casualty and other claims.
Vacation liability
Accrued Vacation, Current
Due to Conrail (Note 5)
Due To Conrail
Amount recorded in accounts payable due to Conrail for the operation of the Shared Assets Area.
Other
Accounts Payable, Other, Current
Total
Interest payable
Interest Payable, Current
Postretirement and pension benefit obligations (Note 11)
Retiree Benefit Obligations
Amount recorded as of the balance sheet date associated with retiree benefit obligations.
Other
Other Accrued Liabilities, Current
Total
Deferred tax assets:
Deferred Tax Assets, Net [Abstract]
Compensation and benefits, including postretirement
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits
Accruals, including casualty and other claims
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals
Other
Deferred Tax Assets, Other
Total gross deferred tax assets
Deferred Tax Assets, Gross
Less valuation allowance
Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance
Net deferred tax asset
Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance, Noncurrent
Deferred tax liabilities:
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net [Abstract]
Property
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Property, Plant and Equipment
Other
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Other
Total gross deferred tax liabilities
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net
Net deferred tax liability
Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Noncurrent
Net current deferred tax asset
Net long-term deferred tax liability
Other Liabilities
Other Liabilities Disclosure [Text Block]
Federal income tax at statutory rate
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Amount
State income taxes, net of federal tax effect
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes, Amount
Internal Revenue Service (IRS) audit, settlement
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Settlement, Domestic, Amount
State tax law changes, net of federal tax effect
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Settlement, State and Local, Amount
Other, net
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Reconciling Items, Amount
Federal income tax at statutory rate
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent
State income taxes, net of Federal tax effect
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes, Percent
Internal Revenue Service audit, settlement
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Settlement, Domestic, Percent
State tax law changes, net of federal tax effect
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Settlement, State and Local, Percent
Other, net
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Adjustments, Percent
Provision for income taxes
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent
Railway Property Recorded Pursuant To Capital Leases
Railway Property Recorded Pursuant To Capital Leases
Amount as of the balance sheet date of railway property assets recorded pursuant to capital leases.
Accumulated Depreciation Associated With Railway Property Recorded Pursuant To Capital Leases
Accumulated Depreciation Associated With Railway Property Recorded Pursuant To Capital Leases
Amount of accumulated depreciation as of the balance sheet date associated with railway property assets recorded pursuant to capital leases.
Costs Of Obtaining Rights To Natural Resources
Costs Of Obtaining Rights To Natural Resources
Amount as of the balance sheet date included in "other property" related to the costs of obtaining rights to natural resources.
Accumulated Depreciation Associated With Costs Of Obtaining Rights To Natural Resources
Accumulated Depreciation Associated With Costs Of Obtaining Rights To Natural Resources
The amount of accumulated depreciation as of the balance sheet date associated with costs of obtaining rights to natural resources.
Interest Costs Incurred
Interest Costs Incurred
Interest Costs Capitalized
Interest Costs Capitalized
Environmental liability
Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies
Current environmental liability
Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies, Undiscounted, Due in Next Twelve Months
Known cleanup and remediation locations and projects
Environmental Cleanup Locations
Number of known locations and projects of environmental loss contingencies.
Number of sites - representative sample
Environmental Locations Representative Sample
A representative sample of the total number of environmental locations and projects.
Liability associated with those sites
Environmental Locations Representative Sample Liability
Liability associated with the representative sample of environmental locations and projects.
Environmental locations representative sample liability payout period, in years
Environmental Locations Representative Sample Liability Period
Number of years over which environmental liabilities are expected to be paid out.
Responsible locations with another party
Environmental Responsible Party In Conjunction With Other Parties
Number of locations the company or its subsidiaries in conjunction with other parties have been identified as potentially responsible parties by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Self-insured injury/damage to third party - up to
Self Insured For Bodily Injury And Property Damage To Third Parties Up To
Amount up to which the company is self-insured per occurrence for bodily injury and property damage to third parties.
Self-insured injury/damage to third parties - and above, per occurrence
Self Insured For Bodily Injury And Property Damage To Third Parties Above
Amount above which the company is self-insured per occurrence for bodily injury and property damage to third parties.
Self-insured NS owned property - up to
Self-Insured For Property Owned Up To
Amount up to which the company is self-insured, per occurrence, for property owned or in the care, custody or control of the company.
Self-insured NS owned property - and above, per occurrence
Self-Insured For Property Owned Above
Amount above which the company is self-insured, per occurrence, for property owned or in the care, custody or control of the company.
Purchase commitments, long-term service contracts
Long-term Purchase Commitment, Amount
Liable Guarantors Of Indebtedness
Liable Guarantors Of Indebtedness
Amount as of the balance sheet date in which certain of the company's subsidiaries are contingently liable as guarantors with respect to indebtedness due in 2019 of the Terminal Railroad Association of St. Louis. Four other railroads are jointly and severally liable as guarantors.
Long-term investments, carrying value
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Carrying Amount
Long-term debt, including current maturities, carrying value
Long-term Debt
Investments
Investment Holdings [Text Block]
Leases [Abstract]
2015 - Operating Leases
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months
2016 - Operating Leases
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years
2017 - Operating Leases
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years
2018 - Operating Leases
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years
2019 - Operating Leases
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years
2020 and subsequent years
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter
Total - Operating Leases
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due
2015 - Capital Leases
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months
2016 - Capital Leases
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Two Years
2017 - Capital Leases
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Three Years
2018 - Capital Leases
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Four Years
2019 - Capital Leases
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Five Years
2020 and subsequent years - Capital Leases
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Thereafter
Total - Capital Leases
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due
Imputed interest on capital leases
Imputed Interest On Capital Leases
This element is used to disclose the imputed interest on capital lease at a calculated average rate.
Present value of minimum lease payments - capital leases
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Present Value of Net Minimum Payments
Average rate of imputed interest on capital leases
Average Rate Of Imputed Interest On Capital Leases
The average rate by which imputed interest is calculated on capital leases.
Operating lease expense - minimum rents
Operating Leases, Rent Expense, Minimum Rentals
Operating lease expense - contingent rents
Contingent Rents
This element represents the payments that result from changes occurring after the inception of the lease in the factors (other than passage of time) on which lease payments are based. Primarily comprised of usage-based rent paid to other railroads for joint facility operations.
Total operating lease expense
Operating Leases, Rent Expense
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts [Abstract]
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Table]
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Table]
Valuation Allowances and Reserves Type [Axis]
Valuation Allowances and Reserves Type [Axis]
Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Domain]
Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Domain]
Valuation Allowance (Included Net In Deferred Tax Liability) For Deferred Tax Assets
Valuation Allowance of Deferred Tax Assets [Member]
Casualty And Other Claims Included In Other Liabilities
Other Liabilities Casualty And Other Claims [Member]
Other Liabilities Casualty And Other Claims
Current Portion Of Casualty And Other Claims Included In Accounts Payable
Accounts Payable Casualty And Other Claims Current [Member]
Accounts Payable Casualty And Other Claims Current
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items]
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items]
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Balance
Expenses
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Charged to Cost and Expense
Other Accounts
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Charged to Other Accounts
Deductions
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Deductions
Ending Balance
Schedule Of Earnings Per Share Calculation
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block]
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies
Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block]
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward]
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward]
Balance at beginning of year
Unrecognized Tax Benefits
Additions based on tax positions related to the current year
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase Resulting from Current Period Tax Positions
Additions for tax positions of prior years
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions
Reductions for tax positions of prior years
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decrease Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions
Settlements with taxing authorities
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decrease Resulting from Settlements with Taxing Authorities
Lapse of statutes of limitations
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Reduction Resulting from Lapse of Applicable Statute of Limitations
Balance at end of year
Future Minimum Lease Payments
Future Minimum Lease Payments Table [Text Block]
Total amount of future contractually required payments on leases defined as operating and capital.
Operating Lease Expense
Schedule of Rent Expense [Table Text Block]
Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared
Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared
Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Income Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation
Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Income Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation
Performance
Performance [Member]
Performance [Member]
Market Condition
Market Condition [Member]
The grant date fair value of performance share units based on a market condition: achievement of a total shareholder return target measured using a Monte Carlo simulation model.
Maximum number of shares available for grant
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized
Amended LTIP plan-award granted as an option or stock appreciation right
Amended LTIP Plan Award Granted As Option Or Stock Appreciation Right
Amended LTIP Plan Award Granted As Option Or Stock Appreciation Right
Amended LTIP plan - award granted in a form other than option or stock appreciation right
Amended LTIP Plan Award Granted As Other Than Option Or Stock Appreciation Right
Amended LTIP Plan Award Granted As Other Than Option Or Stock Appreciation Right
Compensation costs
Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense
Tax benefits associated with compensation costs
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Tax Benefit from Compensation Expense
Excess tax benefits recognized for share-based awards
Excess Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation, Financing Activities
Grant price of options granted
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
LTIP dividend equivalent payment, in years
LTIP Dividend Equivalent Payment Years
Number of years holders of LTIP options who remain actively employed, are eligible for dividend equivalent payments on a particular stock option grant.
Dividend yield for period dividend equivalents paid
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Fair Value Assumptions Expected Dividend Rate When Dividend Equivalents Are Paid
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Fair Value Assumptions Expected Dividend Rate When Dividend Equivalents Are Paid.
Dividend yield for period dividend equivalents not paid
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Fair Value Assumptions Expected Dividend Rate When Dividend Equivalents Are Not Paid
The estimated dividend rate (a percentage of the share price) to be paid (expected dividends) to holders of the underlying shares over the option's term where no dividend equivalent payments are made.
Aggregate intrinsic value of options outstanding
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value
Weighted average remaining contractual term of options outstanding
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term
Number of shares exercisable
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number
Aggregate intrinsic value of options exercisable
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Intrinsic Value
Exercisable weighted average exercise price
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Weighted average remaining contractual term of options exercisable
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Exercisable Options, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term
Unrecognized compensation related to stock options granted
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized
Unrecognized compensation, weighted average period of recognition
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition
Units other than stock options granted
Grant-date fair value of units granted
Restriction period, in years
Restricted Stock Unit Restriction Period
Period of time over which an employee's restricted stock unit award is earned.
Restricted Stock Units Paid In Stock
Restricted Stock Units Paid In Stock
The number of restricted stock units paid out in stock during the period related to Restricted Stock Unit awards, net of any forfeits.
Shares issued net of withholding taxes
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Shares Issued Net Of Withholding Taxes
Documents the compensation other than options issued net of withholding taxes.
Excess tax benefit/expense realized
Excess Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Amount Realized
Excess Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Amount Realized
Vesting Period
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period
Performance Share Units Paid
Performance Share Units Paid
The number of PSUs paid out in Common Stock, net of any forfeits and unearned awards.
Current Liabilities
Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Disclosure [Text Block]
Operating Activities
Operating Activities [Axis]
Segment, Operating Activities [Domain]
Operating Activities [Domain]
Intermodal
Railway Operating Revenues Market Group Intermodal [Member]
Railway Operating Revenues, Market Group, Intermodal
Coal
Railway Operating Revenues Market Group Coal [Member]
Railway Operating Revenues, Market Group, Coal
Chemicals
Railway Operating Revenues Market Group Chemicals [Member]
Railway Operating Revenues, Market Group, Chemicals
Metals/Construction
Railway Operating Revenues Market Group Metals Construction [Member]
Railway Operating Revenues, Market Group, Metals/Construction
Agriculture/Consumer Products/Government
Railway Operating Revenues Market Group Agriculture Consumer Products Government [Member]
Railway Operating Revenues, Market Group, Agriculture/Consumer Products/Government
Automotive
Railway Operating Revenues Market Group Automotive [Member]
Railway Operating Revenues, Market Group, Automotive
Paper/Clay/Forest Products
Railway Operating Revenues Market Group Paper Clay Forest Products [Member]
Railway Operating Revenues, Market Group, Paper/Clay/Forest Products
Roadway
Roadway [Member]
Disclosures over those assets included in our Roadway asset class. Examples include rail, track material, ties, ballast, etc.
Equipment
Number Of Depreciable Asset Classes Used Range Low End
Number Of Depreciable Asset Classes Used Range Low End
Number Of Depreciable Asset Classes Used Range Low End
Depreciation Studies, Period
Depreciation Studies, Period
Depreciation Studies, Period
Operating route miles
Operating Route Miles
Approximate number of route miles operated by the company in the East and Midwest.
Market groups percent of total railway operating revenues
Market Groups Percent Of Total Railway Operating Revenues
Percent of total railway operating revenues by market group.
Employees covered by collective bargaining agreements
Employees Covered By Collective Bargaining Agreements
Percent of the company's employees covered by collective bargaining agreements with various labor unions.
Allowance for doubtful accounts
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable
Depreciation studies description
Depreciation Studies Description
Explanation of how often depreciation studies are conducted
Depreciation rate range minimum
Depreciation Rate Range Minimum
Depreciation Rate Range Minimum
Depreciation rate range maximum
Depreciation Rate Range Maximum
Depreciation Rate Range Maximum
Options exercised
Total intrinsic value
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Intrinsic Value
Cash received upon exercise
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Cash Received from Exercise of Stock Options
Related tax benefits realized
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Tax Benefit Realized from Exercise of Stock Options
Stock repurchased and retired during period, shares
Stock Repurchased and Retired During Period, Shares
Stock repurchased and retired during period, cost
New stock repurchase program
New stock repurchase program
Additional number of shares authorized under the new stock repurchase program.
Stock repurchased and retired since beginning of stock repurchase program in 2006, shares
Stock repurchased and retired since inception shares
Stock repurchased and retired since inception of stock repurchase program, shares.
Stock repurchased and retired since beginning of stock repurchase program in 2006, cost
Stock repurchased and retired since inception, value
Stock repurchased and retired since inception, value.
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Table Text Block]
Schedule Of Carrying Amounts And Estimated Fair Values
Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table Text Block]
Schedule Of Fair Value Of Long-term Assets And Liabilities
Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block]
Other Income - Net
Schedule of Other Nonoperating Income, by Component [Table Text Block]
Lease Commitments
Leases of Lessee Disclosure [Text Block]
Pensions And Other Postretirement Benefits
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block]
Earnings Per Share
Earnings Per Share [Text Block]
Other Income - Net
Other Income and Other Expense Disclosure [Text Block]
Document And Entity Information [Abstract]
Entity Registrant Name
Entity Registrant Name
Entity Central Index Key
Entity Central Index Key
Current Fiscal Year End Date
Current Fiscal Year End Date
Entity Filer Category
Entity Filer Category
Document Type
Document Type
Document Period End Date
Document Period End Date
Document Fiscal Year Focus
Document Fiscal Year Focus
Document Fiscal Period Focus
Document Fiscal Period Focus
Amendment Flag
Amendment Flag
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer
Entity Voluntary Filers
Entity Voluntary Filers
Entity Current Reporting Status
Entity Current Reporting Status
Entity Public Float
Entity Public Float
Debt
Debt Disclosure [Text Block]
Balance Sheet Location [Axis]
Balance Sheet Location [Axis]
Balance Sheet Location [Domain]
Balance Sheet Location [Domain]
Other Liabilities
Other Liabilities [Member]
Income Statement Location [Axis]
Income Statement Location [Axis]
Income Statement Location [Domain]
Income Statement Location [Domain]
Purchased Services and Rent
Purchased Services and Rent [Member]
Purchased Services and Rent [Member]
Conrail Equity
Equity Method Investee [Member]
Conrail Voting
Affiliate Voting [Member]
Voting interest in affiliate.
Shared Assets Areas CRC Lease
Fixed Maturities [Member]
Equity method investment, ownership percentage
Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage
Pension plan status change in investment, affiliate
Pension Plan Status, Change In Investment, Affiliate
Pension Plan Status, Change In Investment, Affiliate
Portion of pension plan change attributable to other comprehensive income (loss), affiliate
Pension Plan Status Change Attributable To Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Affiliate
Pension Plan Status Change Attributable To Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Affiliate
Portion of pension plan change attributable to deferred taxes, affiliate
Pension Plan Status Change Attributable To Deferred Taxes Affiliate
Pension Plan Status Change Attributable To Deferred Taxes, Affiliate
Difference between investment in Conrail and share of Conrail's underlying net equity
Equity Method Investment, Difference Between Carrying Amount and Underlying Equity
Expenses for the use of the Shared Assets Area
Expenses For Use Of Shared Assets Area
"Purchased services and rents" and "fuel" expenses for the use of the Shared Assets Area.
Future annual minimum payments, due next five years
Future Annual Minimum Payments, Due Next Five Years
Future annual minimum payments due to Consolidated Rail Corporation for operation of the shared asset areas in the next five years.
2020 and subsequent years - Operating Leases
General and administrative support to Conrail
Accounts Receivable, Net
Due to affiliate, current
Due to Affiliate, Current
Due to affiliate, noncurrent
Due to Affiliate, Noncurrent
Due to affiliate, noncurrent, maturity date
Long Term Advances Due To Affiliate Maturity Date
Maturity date of long-term advances due to an affiliate.
Due to affiliate, average interest rate
Due to affiliate, average interest rate
The average interest rate associated with long-term advances from an affiliate.
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Other comprehensive income (loss), before tax:
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax [Abstract]
Pension and other postretirement benefits
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, before Tax
Other comprehensive income (loss) of equity investees
Other Comprehensive Income Loss Of Equity Investees
Amount of other comprehensive income or loss associated with equity investees for the reporting period.
Other comprehensive income (loss), before tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax
Income tax benefit (expense) related to items of other comprehensive income (loss)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax
Net loss arising during the year
Defined Benefit Plan Net Gain Loss During Year
Net gain or loss arising during the year for defined benefit plans recognized in other comprehensive income/loss for the reporting period.
Prior service effect of plan amendment
Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Prior Service Cost (Credit), before Tax
Amortization of net losses
Amortization Of Net Losses Recognized In Other Comprehensive Income Loss
Amortization of net losses associated with defined benefit plans recognized in other comprehensive income/loss for the reporting period.
Amortization of prior service benefit (cost)
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Amortization Adjustment from AOCI, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, for Net Prior Service Cost (Credit), before Tax
Total recognized in other comprehensive loss
Other Defined Benefit Plan Amounts Recognized In Other Comprehensive Income Net Gain Loss Before Tax
Other Defined Benefit Plan Amounts Recognized In Other Comprehensive Income Net Gain Loss Before Tax
Total recognized in net periodic cost and other comprehensive loss
Pension And Other Postretirement Benefit Obligations And Plan Assets
Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table Text Block]
Pension And Other Postretirement Benefit Cost Components
Schedule of Net Benefit Costs [Table Text Block]
Other Changes In Plan Assets And Benefit Obligations Recognized In Other Comprehensive Loss
Schedule of Defined Benefit Plan Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block]
Pension And Other Postretirement Benefit Assumptions
Schedule of Assumptions Used [Table Text Block]
Health Care Cost Trend Assumptions
Schedule of Effect of One-Percentage-Point Change in Assumed Health Care Cost Trend Rates [Table Text Block]
Pension Plan Weighted-Average Asset Allocations, By Asset Category
Pension Plan Weighted-Average Asset Allocations [Table Text Block]
The weighted-average asset allocations by asset category for the reporting period associated with the pension plan.
Fair Value Of Plan Assets
Schedule of Allocation of Plan Assets [Table Text Block]
Estimated Future Benefit Payments
Schedule of Expected Benefit Payments [Table Text Block]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table]
Pretax Amount
Pretax Amount [Member]
Pretax amount of other comprehensive income (loss) components.
Tax Expense Benefit
Tax Expense Benefit [Member]
Tax (expense) benefit of other comprehensive income (loss) components.
Net Of Tax Amount
Net Of Tax Amount [Member]
Net-of-tax amount of other comprehensive income (loss) components.
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Pensions and other postretirement benefits
Pension And Other Postretirement Benefits Amortization
Effect of amortization of pension and other postretirement benefits on other comprehensive income (loss) for the period.
Reclassification adjustments for costs included in net income
Reclassification Adjustments For Costs Included In Net Income
Amount of reclassification adjustments related to pension and other post retirement benefits included in net income during the reporting period.
Subtotal
Total Pension And Other Postretirement Other Comprehensive Income Loss
Amount of the total pension and other postretirement benefits effect on other comprehensive income (loss) for the period.
Other comprehensive income loss of equity investees
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax
Net retiree other postretirement benefit obligations (Note 11)
Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Liabilities, Noncurrent
Long-term advances from Conrail (Note 5)
Due to Affiliate
Net pension benefit obligations (Note 11)
Net pension obligations
This element is used to disclose the amount as of the balance sheet date of noncurrent liabilities related to net pension obligations.
Casualty and other claims (Note 16)
Casualty And Other Claims
Total amount of obligations incurred and payable related to casualty and other claims.
Deferred compensation
Deferred Compensation Liability, Classified, Noncurrent
Other
Other Accrued Liabilities, Noncurrent
Total
Schedule II - Valuation And Qualifying Accounts
Schedule of Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Text Block]
Available for future grants
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant
Shares of Common Stock issued
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Shares Issued in Period
Change in benefit obligations:
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Benefit Obligation [Roll Forward]
Benefit obligation at beginning of year
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation
Actuarial losses (gains)
Defined Benefit Plan, Actuarial Gain (Loss)
Plan amendments
Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Amendments
Benefits paid
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefits Paid
Benefit obligation at end of year
Change in plan assets:
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets
Actual return on plan assets
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Return on Plan Assets
Employer contribution
Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Employer
Benefits paid
Fair value of plan assets at end of year
Funded status at end of year
Defined Benefit Plan, Funded Status of Plan
Noncurrent assets
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets for Plan Benefits, Noncurrent
Current liabilities
Defined Benefit Pension Plan Liabilities, Current
Noncurrent liabilities
Defined Benefit Pension Plan, Liabilities, Noncurrent
Net amount recognized
Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Balance Sheet
Net loss (gain)
Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Actuarial Gain (Loss), before Tax
Prior service cost (benefit)
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Prior Service Cost (Credit), before Tax
International Equity Securities
Common Stock
Pension Plan Assets Common Stock
This element is used to disclose the value of common stock related to total pension plan assets.
Common collective trusts
Pension Plan Assets Common Collective Trusts
This element is used to disclose the value of common collective trusts related to total pension plan assets.
Commingled funds
Pension Plan Assets Commingled Funds
This element is used to disclose the value of commingled funds related to total pension plan assets.
Interest bearing cash
Pension Plan Assets Interest Bearing Cash
This element is used to disclose the value of interest bearing cash related to total pension plan assets.
U.S. government and agencies securities
Pension Plan Assets US Government And Agencies Securities
This element is used to disclose the value of U.S. Government and agencies securities related to total pension plan assets.
Preferred stock
Pension Plan Assets Preferred Stock
Pension Plan Assets Preferred Stock
Total pension plan assets
Pension Plan Assets Total
This element is used to disclose the total value of pension plan assets.