Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table]
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table]
Debt Instrument [Axis]
Debt Instrument [Axis]
Debt Instrument, Name [Domain]
Debt Instrument, Name [Domain]
Capital Lease Obligations [Member]
Capital Lease Obligations [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Additions to capital leases
Capital leases entered into to finance maintenance of way and other vehicles and equipment
Capital leases entered into to finance maintenance of way and other vehicles and equipment
1. The Company [Abstract]
1. The Company [Abstract]
Nature Of Operations [Table]
Nature Of Operations [Table]
Nature Of Operations [Table]
Business Acquisition [Axis]
Business Acquisition [Axis]
Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain]
Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain]
Northern Sante Fe Corporation [Member]
Northern Sante Fe Corporation [Member]
Northern Sante Fe Corporation [Member]
Freight Revenue by Commodity Group [Axis]
Freight Revenue by Commodity Group [Axis]
Description of total freight revenues broken out between commodity groups.
Freight Revenue by Commodity Group [Domain]
Freight Revenue by Commodity Group [Domain]
[Domain] for Description of total freight revenues broken out between commodity groups.
Consumer Products [Member]
Consumer Products [Member]
Consumer Products commodity group portion of total freight revenues.
Industrial Products [Member]
Industrial Products [Member]
Industrial Products commodity group portion of total freight revenues.
Agricultural Products [Member]
Agricultural Products [Member]
Agricultural Products commodity group portion of total freight revenues.
Coal [Member]
Coal [Member]
Nature Of Operations [Line Items]
Nature Of Operations [Line Items]
[Line Items] for Nature Of Operations [Table]
Rail Route Network Distance in miles
Rail Route Network Distance
Approximate distance of railroad network
Number of States in which Entity Operates
Number of States in which Entity Operates
Number of Canadian Provinces In Which Entity Operates
Number of Canadian Provinces In Which Entity Operates
Number of Canadian Provinces In Which Entity Operates in as of the Balance Sheet Date
Percentage of Total Freight Revenues
Percentage of Total Freight Revenues
Percentage of Total Freight Revenues
Percentage of outstanding shares acquired by parent company
Business Combination, Step Acquisition, Remaining Equity Interest Acquired, Percentage
In a business combination achieved in stages, this element represents the percentage aquired of the remaining equity interest in the acquiree not already owned.
Holders of Membership Interests
Holders of Membership Interests
Holders of Membership Interests
Income Taxes [Abstract]
Income Taxes [Abstract]
Income Tax Contingency [Table]
Income Tax Contingency [Table]
Scenario [Axis]
Scenario [Axis]
Scenario, Unspecified [Domain]
Scenario, Unspecified [Domain]
Scenario, Forecast [Member]
Scenario, Forecast [Member]
Income Tax Contingency [Line Items]
Income Tax Contingency [Line Items]
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Enacted Tax Rate, Amount
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Enacted Tax Rate, Amount
Effective Income Tax Rate, Continuing Operations, Tax Rate Reconciliation [Abstract]
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent [Abstract]
U.S. Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent
State income taxes, net of federal tax benefit
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes, Percent
Tax law change
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Enacted Tax Rate, Percent
Other, net
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Adjustments, Percent
Effective Tax Rate
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent, Before Impacts from Tax Rate Change
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent, Before Impacts from Tax Rate Change
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent, Before Impacts from Tax Rate Change
Retirement Benefits [Abstract]
Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table]
Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table]
Retirement Plan Type [Axis]
Retirement Plan Type [Axis]
Retirement Plan Type [Domain]
Retirement Plan Type [Domain]
Pension Plan [Member]
Pension Plan [Member]
Retiree Health and Welfare Benefits [Member]
Other Postretirement Benefits Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost (Credit) [Abstract]
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost (Credit) [Abstract]
Service cost
Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost
Interest cost
Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost
Expected return on plan assets
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return (Loss) on Plan Assets
Amortization of prior service credits
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Prior Service Cost (Credit)
Amortization of net loss
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Gain (Loss)
Settlements
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost (Credit), Gain (Loss) Due to Settlement
Net (benefit) cost recognized
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost (Credit)
Property and Equipment [Abstract]
Property and Equipment [Abstract]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Maturity Schedule [Abstract]
Other Intangible Assets and Liabilities
Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets and Liabilities [Text Block]
Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets and Liabilities [Text Block]
Quaterly Financial Data Unaudited [Abstract]
Quaterly Financial Data Unaudited [Abstract]
Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block]
Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block]
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]
Related Party Transactions
Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block]
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns RollForward [Abstract]
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns RollForward [Abstract]
Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate
Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate
Reconciliation of Changes in Unrecognized Tax Benefits Liabilities / (Assets) [Table]
Reconciliation of Changes in Unrecognized Tax Benefits Liabilities / (Assets) [Table]
Reconciliation of Changes in Unrecognized Tax Benefits Liabilities / (Assets) [Table]
Reconciliation of Changes in Unrecognized Tax Benefits Liabilities / (Assets) [Line Items]
Reconciliation of Changes in Unrecognized Tax Benefits Liabilities / (Assets) [Line Items]
[Line Items] for Reconciliation of Changes in Unrecognized Tax Benefits Liabilities / (Assets) [Table]
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]
Beginning Balance
Unrecognized Tax Benefits
Additions for tax positions related to current year
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase Resulting from Current Period Tax Positions
Reductions for tax positions taken in prior years
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decrease Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions
Additions for tax positions as a result of settlements
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase Resulting from Settlements with Taxing Authorities
Reductions for tax positions as a result of lapse of statute of limitations
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Reduction Resulting from Lapse of Applicable Statute of Limitations
Ending Balance
Total accrued liabilities for interest and penalites
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Accrued
Total interest and penalties recognized as expense (benefit)
Increases (decreases) for interest and penalties
Increases (decreases) for interest and penalties
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Table]
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Table]
Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis]
Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis]
Type of Adoption [Domain]
Type of Adoption [Domain]
Accounting Standards Update 2017-07 [Member]
Accounting Standards Update 2017-07 [Member]
Accounting Standards Update 2017-07, Improving the Presentation of Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Member]
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Decrease in operating income
New Accounting Pronouncement or Change in Accounting Principle, Effect of Adoption, Quantification
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Statement [Table]
Statement [Table]
Statement [Line Items]
Statement [Line Items]
Net Income
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent
Other comprehensive income:
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract]
Change in Pension and Retiree Health and Welfare benefits, net of taxes of ($37 million), ($45 million), and ($31 million), respectively
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Defined Benefit Plan, Gain (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, after Tax
Change in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) of equity method investees
Change in Other Comprehensive Income of Equity Method Investees
Change in Other Comprehensive Income of Equity Method Investees
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax
Total comprehensive income
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Benefit Obligation [Roll Forward]
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Benefit Obligation [Roll Forward]
Projected benefit obligation at beginning of period
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation
Plan participants' contributions
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation, Contributions by Plan Participant
Actuarial loss (gain)
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation, Actuarial Gain (Loss)
Benefits Paid
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation, Benefits Paid
Settlements
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation, (Increase) Decrease for Settlement
Plan amendment
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation, Increase (Decrease) for Plan Amendment
Projected benefit obligation at end of period
Component representing future salary increases
Component representing future salary increases
Component representing future salary increases
Accumulated benefit obligation at end of period
Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Benefit Obligation
Schedule of Net Benefit Costs
Schedule of Net Benefit Costs [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Changes in Projected Benefit Obligations [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Changes in Projected Benefit Obligations [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Changes in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Changes in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Net Funded Status [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Net Funded Status [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Fair Value of Plan Assets [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Fair Value of Plan Assets [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Assumptions Used [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Assumptions Used [Table Text Block]
Sensitivity analysis of impact on future net benefit cost resulting from hypothetical change in assumptions [Text Block]
Sensitivity analysis of impact on future net benefit cost resulting from hypothetical change in assumptions [Table Text Block]
Sensitivity analysis of impact on future net benefit cost reulting from hypothetical change in assumptions [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Health Care Cost Trend Rates [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Health Care Cost Trend Rates [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Effect of One-Percentage-Point Change in Assumed Health Care Cost Trend Rates [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Effect of One-Percentage-Point Change in Assumed Health Care Cost Trend Rates [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Allocation of Plan Assets [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Allocation of Plan Assets [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Expected Benefit Payments Years 2018 - 2027 [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Expected Benefit Payments [Table Text Block]
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
ASSETS
Assets [Abstract]
Current assets:
Assets, Current [Abstract]
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value
Accounts receivable, net
Accounts Receivable, Net, Current
Materials and supplies
Materials, Supplies, and Other
Other current assets
Other Assets, Current
Total current assets
Assets, Current
Property and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $8,627 and $6,130, respectively
Property, Plant and Equipment, Net
Goodwill
Goodwill
Intangible assets, net
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net
Other assets
Other Assets, Noncurrent
Total assets
Assets
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
Liabilities and Equity [Abstract]
Current liabilities:
Liabilities, Current [Abstract]
Accounts payable and other current liabilities
Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities, Current
Long-term debt due within one year
Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Current
Total current liabilities
Liabilities, Current
Long-term debt
Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations
Deferred income taxes
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Noncurrent
Casualty and environmental liabilities
Casualty and environmental liabilities
Noncurrent portion of costs accrued as of the balance sheet date for casualty, environmental and other loss contingencies.
Intangible liabilities, net
Intangible liabilities, net
The aggregate sum of gross carrying value of a major finite-lived intangible liability class, less accumulated amortization and any impairment charges.
Pension and retiree health and welfare liability
Liability, Defined Benefit Plan, Noncurrent
Other liabilities
Other Liabilities, Noncurrent
Total liabilities
Liabilities
Commitments and contingencies (see Notes 11 and 12)
Commitments and Contingencies
Equity:
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract]
Member's Equity
Members' Equity
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax
Total equity
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent
Total liabilities and equity
Liabilities and Equity
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Future Minimum Lease Payments for Capital and Operating Leases [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Future Minimum Lease Payments for Capital and Operating Leases [Table Text Block]
[Table Text Block] for Tabular disclosure of future minimum lease payments as of the date of the latest balance sheet presented, in aggregate and for each of the five years succeeding fiscal years, with separate deductions from the total for the amount representing executor costs, including any profit thereon, included in the minimum lease payments and for the amount of the imputed interest necessary to reduce the net minimum lease payments to present value.
Schedule of Loss Contingencies by Contingency
Schedule of Loss Contingencies by Contingency [Table Text Block]
Accrued Obligations for Environmental Matters
Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies [Table Text Block]
Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies [Table Text Block]
Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block]
Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block]
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]
Minimum capital lease payments - 2018
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months
Minimum capital lease payments - 2019
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Two Years
Minimum capital lease payments - 2020
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Three Years
Minimum capital lease payments - 2021
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Four Years
Minimum capital lease payments - 2022
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Five Years
Minimum capital lease payments - Thereafter
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Thereafter
Total minimum capital leases payments
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due
Capital lease payments - amount representing interest
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Interest Included in Payments
Present value of minimum capital lease payments
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Present Value of Net Minimum Payments
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]
Minimum operating lease payments - 2018
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months
Minimum operating lease payments - 2019
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years
Minimum operating lease payments - 2020
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years
Minimum operating lease payments - 2021
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years
Minimum operating lease payments - 2022
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years
Minimum operating lease payments - Thereafter
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter
Total minimum operating lease payments
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due
Rent Expense for Operating Leases, excluding per diem leases
Rent Expense for Operating Leases
Rent expense for operating leases with terms exceeding one month. Excludes non-cancelable lease terms of less than one year and per diem leases.
Schedule of Operating Leased Assets [Table]
Schedule of Operating Leased Assets [Table]
Variable Interest Entities [Axis]
Variable Interest Entities [Axis]
Variable Interest Entity, Classification [Domain]
Variable Interest Entity, Classification [Domain]
Variable Interest Entity, Not Primary Beneficiary
Variable Interest Entity, Not Primary Beneficiary [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain]
Equipment
Equipment [Member]
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]
Future minimum lease payments
Entities [Table]
Legal Entity [Axis]
Legal Entity [Axis]
Entity [Domain]
Entity [Domain]
Entity Information [Line Items]
Entity Information [Line Items]
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
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Schedule of Variable Interest Entities
Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table Text Block]
Projected Benefit Obligation
Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plan with Accumulated Benefit Obligation in Excess of Plan Assets, Projected Benefit Obligation
Accumulated Benefit Obligation
Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plan with Accumulated Benefit Obligation in Excess of Plan Assets, Accumulated Benefit Obligation
Fair Value of Plan Assets
Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plan with Accumulated Benefit Obligation in Excess of Plan Assets, Fair Value of Plan Assets
Payables and Accruals [Abstract]
Accounts Payable and Other Current Liablities [Table]
Accounts Payable and Other Current Liablities [Table]
Accounts Payable and Other Current Liablities [Table]
Accounts Payable and Other Current Liablities [Line Items]
Accounts Payable and Other Current Liablities [Line Items]
[Line Items] for Accounts Payable and Other Current Liablities [Table]
Compensation and benefits payable
Accrued Employee Benefits, Current
Accounts payable
Accounts Payable, Current
Property and income tax liabilities
Accrued Property and Income Taxes, Current
Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of the unpaid sum of the known and estimated amounts payable to satisfy all currently due property, state and federal income tax obligations.
Accrued interest
Interest Payable, Current
Customer incentives
Customer Advances and Deposits, Current
Capital expenditure estimated liabilities
Capital expenditure estimated liabilities
Capital expenditure estimated liabilities
Casualty and environmental liabilities
Loss Contingency Accrual
Rents and leases
Accrued Rent, Current
Other
Other Accrued Liabilities, Current
Total
Income Statement [Abstract]
Revenues
Revenue, Net
Operating expenses:
Operating Expenses [Abstract]
Compensation and benefits
Labor and Related Expense
Fuel
Fuel Costs
Purchased services
Purchased services
The amount of expense for contract services provided to the Company.
Depreciation and amortization
Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization
Equipment rents
Equipment rents
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.
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 operating expenses
Operating Expenses
Operating income
Operating Income (Loss)
Interest expense
Interest and Debt Expense
Other expense, net
Other Nonoperating Income (Expense)
Income tax expense
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Net income
Schedule of Multiemployer Plans [Table]
Schedule of Multiemployer Plans [Table]
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]
Collective bargaining agreements description
Multiemployer Plans, Plan Benefits, Description
Multiemployer Plan, insurance premiums paid
Multiemployer Plan, Contributions by Employer
Average number of employees covered under multi-employer benefit plans
Average number of employees covered under multi-employer benefit plans
Average number of employees covered under multi-employer benefit plans
Defined Contribution Plan [Table]
Defined Contribution Plan [Table]
Defined Contribution Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Contribution Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Description of 401(k) plans and non-qualified defined contribution plan
Defined Contribution Plan, Description
401(k) matching expense
Defined Contribution Plan, Cost
Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block]
Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block]
Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment [Table]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Table]
Range [Axis]
Range [Axis]
Range [Domain]
Range [Domain]
Minimum [Member]
Minimum [Member]
Maximum [Member]
Maximum [Member]
Land [Member]
Land [Member]
Track Structure [Member]
Track Structure [Member]
Property and equipment, net, designated as track structure.
Other Roadway [Member]
Other Roadway [Member]
Property and equipment, net, designated as other roadway.
Locomotives [Member]
Locomotives [Member]
Property and equipment, net, designated as locomotives.
Freight Cars and Other Equipment [Member]
Freight Cars and Other Equipment [Member]
Property and equipment, net, designated as freight cars and other equipment.
Computer Hardware, Software and Other [Member]
Computer Equipment [Member]
Construction in Progress [Member]
Construction in Progress [Member]
Property and Equipment under Capital Lease [Member]
Property and Equipment under Capital Lease [Member]
Property and Equipment under Capital Lease [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross
Accumulated Depreciation and Amortization
Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment
Property and Equipment, Net
Capital Leased Asset, Net
Capital Leased Asset, Net
Property, plant or equipment held under lease agreements classified as an asset.
Interest Costs Capitalized
Interest Costs Capitalized
Maturities of Long-term Debt [Abstract]
Long-term Debt, Type [Axis]
Long-term Debt, Type [Axis]
Long-term Debt, Type [Domain]
Long-term Debt, Type [Domain]
Junior Subordinated Debt [Member]
Junior Subordinated Debt [Member]
Subordinated notes related to financial covenants
Debt Instrument, Covenant Debt
Certain issued and outstanding junior subordinated notes pertaining to certain financial covenants.
Debt Maturities [Abstract]
Debt Maturities [Abstract]
Debt Maturities [Abstract]
Debt maturities - 2018
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Next Twelve Months
Debt maturities - 2019
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two
Debt maturities - 2020
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three
Debt maturities - 2021
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four
Debt maturities - 2022
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five
Debt maturities - Thereafter
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five
Total Debt excluding capital leases
Long-term Debt
Total Debt excluding capital leases, Fair Value
Long-term Debt, Fair Value
Outstanding variable rate debt
Long-term Debt, Percentage Bearing Variable Interest, Amount
Weighted Average Interest Rate on Debt and Capital Lease Obligations [Abstract]
Weighted Average Interest Rate on Debt and Capital Lease Obligations [Abstract]
Weighted Average Interest Rate on Debt and Capital Lease Obligations [Abstract]
Weighted Average Interest Rate On Debt And Capital Lease Obligations - 2018
Weighted Average Interest Rate On Debt And Capital Lease Obligations In Next Twelve Months
Weighted average interest rate n debt and capital lease obligations maturing in the next fiscal year following the latest fiscal year.
Weighted Average Interest Rate On Debt And Capital Lease Obligations - 2019
Weighted Average Interest Rate On Debt And Capital Lease Obligations In Year Two
Weighted average interest rate on debt and capital lease obligations maturing in the second fiscal year following the latest fiscal year.
Weighted Average Interest Rate On Debt And Capital Lease Obligations - 2020
Weighted Average Interest Rate On Debt And Capital Lease Obligations In Year Three
Weighted average interest rate on debt and capital lease obligations maturing in the third fiscal year following the latest fiscal year.
Weighted Average Interest Rate On Debt And Capital Lease Obligations - 2021
Weighted Average Interest Rate On Debt And Capital Lease Obligations In Year Four
Weighted average interest rate on debt and capital lease obligations maturing in the fourth fiscal year following the latest fiscal year.
Weighted Average Interest Rate On Debt And Capital Lease Obligations - 2022
Weighted Average Interest Rate On Debt And Capital Lease Obligations In Year Five
Weighted average interest rate on debt and capital lease obligations maturing in the fifth fiscal year following the latest fiscal year.
Weighted Average Interest Rate On Debt And Capital Lease Obligations - Thereafter
Weighted Average Interest Rate On Debt And Capital Lease Obligations After Year Five
Weighted average interest rate on debt and capital lease obligations maturing after the fifth fiscal year following the latest fiscal year.
Total Debt, Weighted Average Effective Interest Rate
Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table]
Equity Components [Axis]
Equity Components [Axis]
Equity Component [Domain]
Equity Component [Domain]
Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment Attributable to Parent [Member]
Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment Attributable to Parent [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]
AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member]
Consolidated Entities [Axis]
Consolidated Entities [Axis]
Consolidated Entities [Domain]
Consolidated Entities [Domain]
Equity Method Investee [Member]
Equity Method Investee [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Net of Tax, Period Change [Abstract]
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Net of Tax, Period Change [Abstract]
Balance
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Reclassifications
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Reclassifications, Net of Tax
Amounts reclassified from AOCI
Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, Net of Tax
Balance
Equipment Trust Certificate [Member]
Equipment Trust Certificate [Member]
Three Point Four Four Two Percent 13-Year Equipment Obligation [Member]
Three Point Four Four Two Percent 13-Year Equipment Obligation [Member]
Three Point Four Four Two Percent 13-Year Equipment Obligation [Member]
Debt Instrument issued amount
Debt Instrument, Face Amount
Debt instrument interest rate
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage
Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block]
Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block]
Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Disclosure [Text Block]
Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Disclosure [Text Block]
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss [Roll Forward]
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss [Roll Forward]
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance
Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, before Tax
Amortization of net loss
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Defined Benefit Plan, Gain (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, before Tax
Amortization of prior service credits
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, Prior Service Cost (Credit), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, before Tax
Actuarial (loss) gain
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Defined Benefit Plan, Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, before Tax
Settlements
Other Comprehensive Income Defined Benefit Plans Settlements
Other Comprehensive Income Defined Benefit Plans Settlements
Prior Service credit
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, Prior Service Cost (Credit), before Tax
Ending balance
Expected Amortization of Prior Service Credit, Next Fiscal Year
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Amortization of Prior Service Cost (Credit), Next Fiscal Year
Expected Amortization of Loss, Next Fiscal Year
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Amortization of Gain (Loss), Next Fiscal Year
Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, before Tax [Abstract]
Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, before Tax [Abstract]
Net gain (loss)
Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Gain (Loss), before Tax
Prior Service Credits
Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Prior Service Cost (Credit), before Tax
Settlements
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Settlements Before Tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Settlements Before Tax
Pre-tax amount recognized in AOCI at December 31,
After-tax amount recognized in AOCI at December 31,
Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, after Tax
Principles of Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Accounts Receivable, Net, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Trade and Other Accounts Receivable, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Investments in Equity and Fixed Maturity Securities, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Investment, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Materials and Supplies, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets and Liabilities, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Goodwill And Intangible Assets And Intangible Liabilities Policy [Policy Text Block]
Disclosure of accounting policy for goodwill, intangible assets and intangible liabilities. This accounting policy also may address how an entity assesses and measures impairment of goodwill, intangible assets and intangible liabilities.
Property and Equipment, Net, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Planned Major Maintenance Activities, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Planned Major Maintenance Activities, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Rail Grinding Costs, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Rail Grinding Costs, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Disclosure of accounting policy for rail grinding costs.
Environmental Liabilities, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Environmental Liabilities, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Disclosure of accounting policy for environmental liabilities which may include cleanup costs when deemed both probable and reasonably estimable.
Personal Injury Claims, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Personal Injury Claims, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Disclosure of accounting policy for personal injury claims that allege that the Company was responsible for the individual's injury.
Income Taxes, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Employment Benefit Plans, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Pension and Other Postretirement Plans, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Fair Value Measurements, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Fair Value Measurement, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table]
Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table]
Tax Period [Axis]
Tax Period [Axis]
Tax Period [Domain]
Tax Period [Domain]
Earliest Tax Year [Member]
Earliest Tax Year [Member]
Related Party [Axis]
Related Party [Axis]
Related Party [Domain]
Related Party [Domain]
Parent Company
Parent Company [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Cash distributions declared and paid
Cash Distributions/ Dividends Paid
The cash outflow from the distribution of an entity's earnings in the form of dividends to common shareholders or distributions to the parent company.
Tax Refunds from Parent Company
Proceeds from Income Tax Refunds
Tax payments to parent company
Income Taxes Paid
Receivable from parent company
Accounts Receivable, Related Parties
Payable to parent company
Accounts Payable, Related Parties
Tax payable to parent by reporting entity
Tax payable to parent by reporting entity
Tax payable to parent by reporting entity
Revenues earned for services provided to related parties
Revenue from Related Parties
Expenditures to related parties
Related Party Transaction, Expenses from Transactions with Related Party
Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures [Abstract]
Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures [Abstract]
Ownership Percentage in TTX Company
Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage
Investments related to TTX
Equity Method Investments
Receivables [Abstract]
Accounts Receivable, Net
Loans, Notes, Trade and Other Receivables Disclosure [Text Block]
Retirement Plan Funding Status [Axis]
Retirement Plan Funding Status [Axis]
Retirement Plan Funding Status [Domain]
Retirement Plan Funding Status [Domain]
Funded Plan [Member]
Funded Plan [Member]
Participant Age [Axis]
Participant Age [Axis]
Age demographic of plan participants
Participant Age [Domain]
Participant Age [Domain]
[Domain] for Age demographic of plan participants
Over 65 [Member]
Over 65 [Member]
Plan participants over the age of 65
Under 65 [Member]
Under 65 [Member]
Participants under the age of 65
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Weighted Average Assumptions Used in Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract]
Defined Benefit Plan, Weighted Average Assumptions Used in Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract]
Discount Rate - net cost
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Discount Rate
Expected Long-term Rate of Return on Plan Assets - net cost
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Expected Long-term Rate of Return on Plan Assets
Rate of Compensation Increase - net cost
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Rate of Compensation Increase
Defined Benefit Plan, Weighted Average Assumptions Used in Calculating Benefit Obligation [Abstract]
Defined Benefit Plan, Weighted Average Assumptions Used in Calculating Benefit Obligation [Abstract]
Discount Rate - benefit obligations
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Discount Rate
Rate of Compensation Increase - benefit obligations
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Rate of Compensation Increase
Pre-funded amount towards the retiree health and welfare benefits
Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Contributions by Employer
Assumptions Sensitivity Analysis [Abstract]
Assumptions Sensitivity Analysis [Abstract]
Assumptions Sensitivity Analysis [Abstract]
Effect of 50 basis point decrease in discount rate
Effect of 50 basis point decrease in discount rate
Effect of 50 basis point decrease in the discount rate on future net benefit costs.
Effect of 50 basis point increase in discount rate
Effect of 50 basis point increase in discount rate
Effect of 50 basis point increase in the discount rate on future net benefit costs.
Effect of 50 basis point decrease in rate of return on plan assets
Effect of 50 basis point decrease in rate of return on plan assets
Effect of 50 basis point decrease in the rate of return on plan assets on future net benefit costs.
Effect of 50 basis point increase in rate of return on plan assets
Effect of 50 basis point increase in rate of return on plan assets
Effect of 50 basis point increase in the rate of return on plan assets on future net benefit costs.
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumed Health Care Cost Trend Rates [Abstract]
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumed Health Care Cost Trend Rates [Abstract]
Assumed health care cost trend rate for next year
Defined Benefit Plan, Health Care Cost Trend Rate Assumed, Next Fiscal Year
Rate to which health care cost trend rate for participants under 65 is expected to decline and remain
Defined Benefit Plan, Ultimate Health Care Cost Trend Rate
Year that the rate reaches the ultimate trend rate
Defined Benefit Plan, Year Health Care Cost Trend Rate Reaches Ultimate Trend Rate
Effect of One Percentage Point Increase on Service and Interest Cost Components
Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Increase on Service and Interest Cost Components
Effect of One Percentage Point Decrease on Service and Interest Cost Components
Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Decrease on Service and Interest Cost Components
Effect of One Percentage Point Increase on Postretirement Benefit Obligation
Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Increase on Accumulated Postretirement Benefit Obligation
Effect of One Percentage Point Decrease on Postretirement Benefit Obligation
Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Decrease on Accumulated Postretirement Benefit Obligation
New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Abstract]
New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Text Block]
New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Text Block]
Nature of Operations [Text Block]
Nature of Operations [Text Block]
Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block]
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table Text Block]
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table Text Block]
Accumulated depreciation
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]
Debt securities
Trading Securities, Debt
Equity securities
Trading Securities, Equity
Total
Trading Securities
Other Assets
Other Asset, Investment in Variable Interest Entity [Text Block]
Other Asset, Investment in Variable Interest Entity [Text Block]
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table]
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Intangible assets, gross carrying amount
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross
Intangible assets, accumulated amortization
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization
Intangible liabilities, gross carrying amount
Finite-Lived Intangible Liabilities, Gross
Amount before amortization of liabilities, excluding financial liabilities, lacking physical substance with a finite life.
Intangible liabilities, accumulated amortization
Finite-Lived Intangible Liabilities, Accumulated Amortization
Finite-Lived Intangible Liabilities, Accumulated Amortization
Amortization of Intangible Assets
Amortization of Intangible Assets
Amortization of intangible Liabilities
Amortization of Intangible Liabilities
Amortization of Intangible Liabilities
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net, Amortization Expense, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net, Amortization Expense, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]
Amortization of intangible assets, 2018
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months
Amortization of intangible liabilities, 2018
Finite-lived Intangible Liabilities, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months
Finite-lived Intangible Liabilities, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months
Amortization of intangible assets, 2019
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two
Amortization of intangible liabilities, 2019
Finite-Lived Intangible Liabilities, Amortization Expense, Year Two
Finite-Lived Intangible Liabilities, Amortization Expense, Year Two
Amortization of intangible assets, 2020
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three
Amortization of intangible liabilities, 2020
Finite-Lived Intangible Liabilities, Amortization Expense, Year Three
Finite-Lived Intangible Liabilities, Amortization Expense, Year Three
Amortization of intangible assets, 2021
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four
Amortization of intangible liabilities, 2021
Finite-Lived Intangible Liabilities, Amortization Expense, Year Four
Finite-Lived Intangible Liabilities, Amortization Expense, Year Four
Amortization of intangible assets, 2022
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five
Amortization of intangible liabilities, 2022
Finite-Lived Intangible Liabilities, Amortization Expense, Year Five
Finite-Lived Intangible Liabilities, Amortization Expense, Year Five
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Right to use fixed assets [Member]
Right to use fixed assets [Member]
Right to use fixed assets [Member]
Right to use fixed assets
Right to use fixed assets
Right to use fixed assets
OCI Parenthetical [Abstract]
OCI Parenthetical [Abstract]
Change in Pension and Retiree Health and Welfare benefits, taxes
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, after Reclassification Adjustment, Tax
Schedule of Guarantor Obligations [Table]
Schedule of Guarantor Obligations [Table]
Guarantee Entity Name [Axis]
Guarantee Entity Name [Axis]
Guarantee Entity Name [Axis]
Guarantee Entity Name [Domain]
Guarantee Entity Name [Domain]
Guarantee Entity Name [Domain]
Kinder Morgan Energy Partners, L.P.
Kinder Morgan Energy Partners, L.P. [Member]
Kinder Morgan Energy Partners, L.P. [Member]
Chevron Phillips Chemical Company, LP
Chevron Phillips Chemical Company, LP [Member]
Chevron Phillips Chemical Company, LP [Member]
Guarantor Obligations, Nature [Axis]
Guarantor Obligations, Nature [Axis]
Guarantor Obligations, Nature [Domain]
Guarantor Obligations, Nature [Domain]
Payment Guarantee
Payment Guarantee [Member]
Indemnification Agreement
Indemnification Agreement [Member]
Guarantor Obligations [Line Items]
Guarantor Obligations [Line Items]
BNSF Ownership Percentage
Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Parent
Remaining Term
Remaining Term
Remaining Term
Principal Amount Guaranteed
Principal Amount Guaranteed
Principal Amount Guaranteed
Maximum Future Payments
Guarantor Obligations, Maximum Exposure, Undiscounted
Maximum Recourse Amount
Maximum Recourse Amount
Maximum Recourse Amount
Capitalized Obligations
Guarantor Obligations, Current Carrying Value
Investments in Debt and Marketable Equity Securities (and Certain Trading Assets) Disclosure [Text Block]
Investments in Debt and Marketable Equity Securities (and Certain Trading Assets) Disclosure [Text Block]
Income Tax Examination, Penalties and Interest Expense [Abstract]
Income Tax Examination [Table]
Income Tax Examination [Table]
Income Tax Examination [Line Items]
Income Tax Examination [Line Items]
Income Tax Examination, Description
Income Tax Examination, Description
Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract]
OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract]
Net income
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Adjustments, Noncash Items, to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract]
Deferred income taxes, adjusted
Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Adjusted
Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Adjusted
Deferred income taxes
Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Long-term casualty and environmental liabilities, net
Long term casualty and environmental liabilities, net
The net change during the reporting period in the amount of noncurrent costs accrued for casualty, environmental and other loss contingencies.
Other, net
Other Operating Activities, Cash Flow Statement
Changes in current assets and liabilities:
Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract]
Accounts receivable, net
Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Receivable
Materials and supplies
Increase (Decrease) in Materials and Supplies
Other current assets
Increase (Decrease) in Other Current Assets
Accounts payable and other current liabilities
Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities
Net cash provided by operating activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities
INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract]
Capital expenditures excluding equipment
Capital Expenditures Excluding Equipment
The cash outflow associated with the acquisition of long-lived, physical assets, excluding equipment, that are used in the normal conduct of business to produce goods and services and not intended for resale; includes cash outflows to pay for construction of self-constructed assets.
Acquisition of equipment
Acquisition of equipment
The cash outflow associated with the acquisition of equipment which includes locomotive, freight cars and other equipment, some or all of which may be sold and leased back by the Company through either an operating or capital lease.
Purchases of Investments and investments in time deposits
Payments to Acquire Investments
Proceeds from sales of investments and maturities of time deposits
Proceeds from Sale of Trading Securities Held-for-investment
Partnership Investment
Payments for (Proceeds from) Limited Partnership
Other, net
Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities
Net cash used for investing activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities
FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract]
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt
Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt
Payments on long-term debt
Repayments of Long-term Debt
Cash distributions
Other, net
Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities
Net cash used for financing activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities
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]
Beginning of period
End of period
SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract]
Interest paid, net of amounts capitalized
Interest Paid, Net
Capital investments accrued but not yet paid
Capital Expenditures Incurred but Not yet Paid
Income taxes paid, net of refunds
Income Taxes Paid, Net
Debt
Debt Disclosure [Text Block]
Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis]
Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis]
Fair Value, Measurements, Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain]
Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan, Asset Categories [Axis]
Defined Benefit Plan, Asset Categories [Axis]
Plan Asset Categories [Domain]
Plan Asset Categories [Domain]
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member]
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member]
Expected Future Employer Contributions, Next Fiscal Year
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Employer Contributions, Next Fiscal Year
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of period
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets
Actual return on plan assets
Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Increase (Decrease) for Actual Return (Loss)
Employer contributions
Plan participants' contributions
Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Contributions by Plan Participant
Benefits paid
Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Benefits Paid
Settlements
Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Payment for Settlement
Fair value of plan assets at measurement date
Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts for Asset (Liability) Recognized in Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts for Asset (Liability) Recognized in Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Combined Pension and Health and Welfare Benefit Asset / (Liability)
Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts for Asset (Liability) Recognized in Statement of Financial Position
Pension and Health and Welfare Benefit Plans, Current Liabilities
Liability, Defined Benefit Plan, Current
Pension and Health and Welfare Benefit Plans, Other Assets
Assets for Plan Benefits, Defined Benefit Plan
Funded status (plan assets less projected benefit obligations)
Defined Benefit Plan, Funded (Unfunded) Status of Plan
Loss Contingencies [Table]
Loss Contingencies [Table]
Loss Contingency Nature [Axis]
Loss Contingency Nature [Axis]
Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain]
Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain]
Environmental Issue [Member]
Environmental Issue [Member]
Annual actuary study [Axis]
Annual actuary study [Axis]
Annual actuary study [Axis]
Annual actuary study [Domain]
Annual actuary study [Domain]
[Domain] for annual actuary study [Axis]
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Accrual for Loss Contingencies, Revision in Estimates
Accrual for Loss Contingencies, Revision in Estimates
Amount of expense (reversal of expense) which increases (decreases) the accrual for loss contingencies from revisions in estimates to existing obligations.
Number of alleged environmental contamination sites (in sites)
Administrative Judicial and Other Mandatory Cleanup Efforts Total Sites
Administrative, Judicial and Other Mandatory Cleanup Efforts, Total Sites
Number of environmental superfund sites (in sites)
Administrative Judicial and Other Mandatory Cleanup Efforts Superfund Sites
Administrative, Judicial and Other Mandatory Cleanup Efforts, Superfund Sites
Liability for third-party tort claims
Recorded Liability For Third Party Environmental Tort Claims
Recorded Liability For Third Party Environmental Tort Claims
Accrued obligations for environmental matters, current liabilities
Accrued Environmental Loss Contingencies, Current
Increase in environmental expense
Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies, Revision in Estimates
Estimated time frame for accrued cost distributions
Site Contingency, Estimated Time Frame for Accrued Cost Distributions
Site Contingency, Estimated Time Frame for Accrued Cost Distributions
Future costs to settle claims and associated liability
Loss Contingency, Estimate of Possible Loss
Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies [Roll Forward]
Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance
Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies
Accruals / changes in estimates
Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies, Provision and Changes in Estimates
Amount of expense for newly incurred environmental loss contingencies and revisions to previously reported estimates
Payments
Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies, Payments
Ending balance
Equity [Abstract]
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table]
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table]
Benefit cost component type [Axis]
Benefit cost component type [Axis]
Benefit cost component type [Axis]
Benefit cost component type [Domain]
Benefit cost component type [Domain]
[Domain] for Benefit cost component type [Axis]
Amortization of prior service costs/ credits [Member]
Amortization of prior service costs/ credits [Member]
Amortization of prior service costs/ credits [Member]
Amortization of Actuarial Gains/ Losses [Member]
Amortization of Actuarial Gains/ Losses [Member]
Amortization of Actuarial Gains/ Losses [Member]
Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment, Net Prior Service Attributable to Parent [Member]
Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment, Net Prior Service Attributable to Parent [Member]
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Total before Tax
Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, before Tax
Tax (expense) / benefit
Reclassification from AOCI, Current Period, Tax
Net of Tax
Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table]
Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table]
Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary
Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Company limited partner holding interest, percentage
Variable Interest Entity, Qualitative or Quantitative Information, Ownership Percentage
General partner holding interest, percentage
Limited Liability Company (LLC) or Limited Partnership (LP), Managing Member or General Partner, Ownership Interest
Tax Credits, reduction to income tax expense
Affordable Housing Tax Credits and Other Tax Benefits, Amount
Unamortized investment balance classified as Other Assets
Variable Interest Entity, Nonconsolidated, Unamortized Investment Balance
Variable Interest Entity, Nonconsolidated, Unamortized Investment Balance
Maximum exposure to loss
Variable Interest Entity, Reporting Entity Involvement, Maximum Loss Exposure, Amount
Pension Plan Type [Axis]
Pension Plan Type [Axis]
Pension Plan Type [Axis]
Pension Plan Type [Domain]
Pension Plan Type [Domain]
[Domain] for Pension Plan Type [Axis]
Funded Pension Plan [Member]
Funded Pension Plan [Member]
Funded Pension Plan [Member]
Unfunded Non-Qualified Pension Plan [Member]
Unfunded Non-Qualified Pension Plan [Member]
Unfunded Non-Qualified Pension Plan [Member] [Member]
Expected benefit payments, 2018
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payment, Next Twelve Months
Expected benefit payments, 2019
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payment, Year Two
Expected benefit payments, 2020
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payment, Year Three
Expected benefit payments, 2021
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payment, Year Four
Expected benefit payments, 2022
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payment, Year Five
Expected benefit payments, 2023 - 2027
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payment, Five Fiscal Years Thereafter
Expected contributions to unfunded non-qualified pension plan in next fiscal year
Equity Securities [Member]
Equity Securities [Member]
Government Obligations [Member]
US Government Agencies Debt Securities [Member]
Other fixed maturity securities [Member]
Other Debt Obligations [Member]
Investment funds and other [Member]
Investment funds and other [Member]
Investment funds and other [Member]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value of Plan Assets Excluding Accrued Dividend And Interest Receivable
Equity securities exceeding 10 percent of plan assets
Defined Benefit Plan, Significant Concentrations of Risk
Percent of total assets that equity securities exceeding 10 percent of plan assets represent
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations
Accrued dividend and interest receivable, Less than
Accrued Investment Income Receivable
Schedule of Related Party Transactions [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Related Party Transactions [Table Text Block]
Current Federal Tax Expense (Benefit)
Current Federal Tax Expense (Benefit)
Current State Tax Expense (Benefit)
Current State and Local Tax Expense (Benefit)
Total Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Deferred Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Deferred Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Deferred State Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Deferred State and Local Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Total Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Total Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets and Liabilities [Abstract]
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets and Liabilities [Abstract]
Schedule of Goodwill [Table]
Schedule of Goodwill [Table]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Incurred impairment losses related to Goodwill
Goodwill, Impairment Loss
Accumulated impairment losses related to Goodwill
Goodwill, Impaired, Accumulated Impairment Loss
Carrying value of goodwill
Additional Goodwill recognized
Goodwill, Acquired During Period
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Rolling Maturity [Abstract]
Accounting Standards Update 2016-02 [Member]
Accounting Standards Update 2016-02 [Member]
Schedule of Financing Receivables Past Due [Table]
Schedule of Financing Receivables Past Due [Table]
Financing Receivables, Period Past Due [Axis]
Financing Receivables, Period Past Due [Axis]
Financing Receivables, Period Past Due [Domain]
Financing Receivables, Period Past Due [Domain]
Financing Receivables, Equal to Greater than 90 Days Past Due [Member]
Financing Receivables, Equal to Greater than 90 Days Past Due [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due [Line Items]
Allowance for bill adjustments and uncollectible accounts
Allowance for Bill Adjustments and Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current
A valuation allowance for trade and other receivables due to an Entity within one year (or the normal operating cycle, whichever is longer) that have bill adjustments or are expected to be uncollectible.
Accounts receivable greater than 90 days old
Notes and Debentures, due 2018 to 2097 [Member]
Notes and Debentures [Member]
Notes and Debentures issued with the net proceeds from the sale of the debentures being used for general corporate purposes.
Equipment Obligations, due 2018 to 2028 [Member]
Equipment Obligations [Member]
Equipment obligations entered into to finance locomotives and railcars.
Capital Lease Obligations, due 2018 to 2029 [Member]
Mortgage Bonds, due 2020 to 2047 [Member]
Mortgage Bonds [Member]
Mortgage Bonds [Member]
Financing Obligations, due 2018 to 2029 [Member]
Financing Obligation [Member]
Sales leaseback transactions accounted for as financing obligations due to continuing involvement.
Unamortized Fair Value Adjustment Under Acquisition Method Accounting [Member]
Unamortized Fair Value Adjustment [Member]
Unamortized fair value adjustment under acquisition method acounting, discount and other, net.
Total Debt
Debt and Capital Lease Obligations
Current portion of long-term debt
Current portion of long-term debt, Weighted Average Effective Interest Rate
Short-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate, at Point in Time
Total long-term debt
Comprehensive Income
Comprehensive Income (Loss) Note [Text Block]
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity [Abstract]
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity [Abstract]
Members Equity
Members Equity [Member]
Member's equity.
Increase (Decrease) in Total Equity [Roll Forward]
Increase (Decrease) In Members Equity [Roll Forward] [Roll Forward]
Increase (Decrease) In Members Equity [Roll Forward] [Roll Forward]
Comprehensive income, net of tax
Cash distributions to Parent
Employment Benefit Plans
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block]
Corporate Debt Securities
Corporate Debt Securities [Member]
SEC Debt Shelf Registration
SEC Debt Shelf Registration [Member]
SEC Debt Shelf Registration [Member]
Three Point Two Five Zero Percent Debentures Due June 15, 2027 [Member] [Member]
Three Point Two Five Zero Percent Debentures Due June 15, 2027 [Member] [Member]
Three Point Two Five Zero Percent Debentures Due June 15, 2027 [Member] [Member]
Four Point One Two Five Percent Debentures Due June 15, 2047 [Member] [Member]
Four Point One Two Five Percent Debentures Due June 15, 2047 [Member] [Member]
Four Point One Two Five Percent Debentures Due June 15, 2047 [Member]
Three Point Nine Zero Zero Percent Debentures Due August 1, 2046 [Member]
Three Point Nine Zero Zero Percent Debentures Due August 1, 2046 [Member]
Three Point Nine Zero Zero Percent Debentures Due August 1, 2046 [Member]
Three Point Six Five Zero Percent Debentures Due September 1, 2025 [Member]
Three Point Six Five Zero Percent Debentures Due September 1, 2025 [Member]
Three Point Six Five Zero Percent Debentures Due September 1, 2025 [Member]
Four Point Seven Zero Zero Percent Debentures Due September 1, 2045 [Member]
Four Point Seven Zero Zero Percent Debentures Due September 1, 2045 [Member]
Four Point Seven Zero Zero Percent Debentures Due September 1, 2045 [Member]
Three Point Zero Zero Zero Percent Debentures Due April 1, 2025 [Member]
Three Point Zero Zero Zero Percent Debentures Due April 1, 2025 [Member]
Three Point Zero Zero Zero Percent Debentures Due April 1, 2025 [Member]
Four Point One Five Zero Percent Debentures Due April 1, 2045 [Member]
Four Point One Five Zero Percent Debentures Due April 1, 2045 [Member]
Four Point One Five Zero Percent Debentures Due April 1, 2045 [Member]
The board of managers authorized additional debt securities for issuance
The board of managers authorized additional debt securities for issuance
The board of managers authorized additional debt securities for issuance
Remaining amount of debt securities that may be issued
Remaining Debt Securities Authorized by the Board
Remaining Debt Securities Authorized by the Board
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets and Liabilities
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets and Liabilities Amortization Expense
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets and Liabilities Amortization Expense [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets and Liabilities Amortization Expense [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets and Liabilities, Future Amortization Expense
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets and Liabilities, Future Amortization Expense [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets and Liabilities, Future Amortization Expense [Table Text Block]
Asbestos, non-malignant [Member]
Asbestos, non-malignant [Member]
Asbestos, non-malignant [Member]
Unasserted Claim
Unasserted Claim [Member]
Personal Injury
Personal Injury [Member]
Personal Injury [Member]
Asbestos Issue [Member]
Asbestos Issue [Member]
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Axis]
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Axis]
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Domain]
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Domain]
Commercial Paper, Bank Time Deposits, and Money Market Funds [Member]
Commercial Paper, Bank Time Deposits, and Money Market Funds [Member]
Commercial Paper, Bank Time Deposits, and Money Market Funds [Member]
BNSF Insurance Company [Member]
BNSF Insurance Company [Member]
BNSF Insurance Company [Member]
Asbestos and Personal Injury [Abstract]
Loss Contingency, Estimate [Abstract]
Percent of total number of future asbestos claims
Percent of total number of future asbestos claims
Percent of total number of future asbestos claims
Percent of total cost of future asbestos claims
Percent of total cost of future asbestos claims
Percent of total cost of future asbestos claims
Increase (decrease) in asbestos liability
Percent of future unasserted asbestos claims to be filed within the next ten years
Percent of Future Unasserted Asbestos Claims To be Filed Within the Next Ten Years
Percent of Future Unasserted Asbestos Claims To be Filed Within the Next Ten Years
Percent of future unasserted asbestos claims to be filed within the next fifteen years
Percent of Future Unasserted Asbestos Claims to be Filed Within the Next Fifteen Years
Percent of Future Unasserted Asbestos Claims to be Filed Within the Next Fifteen Years
Percent of future unasserted asbestos claims to be filed within the next twenty-five years
Percent of Future Unasserted Asbestos Claims to be Filed Within the Next Twenty-five Years
Percent of Future Unasserted Asbestos Claims to be Filed Within the Next Twenty-five Years
Length in Years for 65 Percent of Future Unasserted Asbestos Claims to be Filed
Length in Years for 60 Percent of Future Unasserted Asbestos Claims to be Filed
Length in Years for 60% of Future Unasserted Asbestos Claims to be Filed
Length in Years for 80 Percent of Future Unasserted Asbestos Claims to be Filed
Length in Years for 80 Percent of Future Unasserted Asbestos Claims to be Filed
Length in Years for 80 Percent of Future Unasserted Asbestos Claims to be Filed
Length in Years for 95 Percent of Future Unasserted Claims to be Filed
Length in Years for 95 Percent of Future Unasserted Claims to be Filed
Length in Years for 95 Percent of Future Unasserted Claims to be Filed
Accrued obligations for asbestos and other personal injury matters, current liabilities
Loss Contingency, Accrual, Current
Loss Contingency Accrual [Roll Forward]
Loss Contingency Accrual [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance
Accruals / changes in estimates
Loss Contingency, Provision and Changes in Estimates
Amount of expense for newly incurred loss contingencies and revisions to previously reported estimates
Payments
Loss Contingency Accrual, Payments
Ending balance
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Abstract]
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Abstract]
Cash and cash equivalents related to third party investments
Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Unrecognized Tax Benefits Roll Forward [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Unrecognized Tax Benefits Roll Forward [Table Text Block]
Components of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Abstract]
Components of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table]
Components of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table]
Components of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table]
Components of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Line Items]
Components of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Line Items]
[Line Items] for Components of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table]
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Property and Equipment
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Property, Plant and Equipment
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Other
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Other
Total Deferred Tax Liabilities
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross
Deferred Tax Assets, Casualty and environmental
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals
Deferred Tax Assets, Compensation and Benefits
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits
Deferred Tax Assets, Long-term Debt Fair Value Adjustment Under Acquisition Method Accounting
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Long-term Debt Fair Value Adjustment
Amount before allocation of valuation allowances of deferred tax asset attributable to deductible temporary differences from long-term debt fair value adjustment under acquisition method accounting.
Deferred Tax Asset, Intangible Assets and Liabilities
Deferred Tax Asset, Tax Deferred Expense, Intangible Assets and Liabilities
Amount before allocation of valuation allowances of deferred tax asset attributable to deductible temporary differences from intangible assets and liabilities.
Deferred Tax Asset, Pension and Retiree Health and Welfare Benefits
Deferred Tax Asset, Deferred Tax Expense, Pension and Retiree Health and Welfare Benefits
Deferred Tax Asset, Deferred Tax Expense, Pension and Retiree Health and Welfare Benefits
Deferred Tax Assets, Other
Deferred Tax Assets, Other
Total Deferred Tax Assets
Deferred Tax Assets, Gross
Net Deferred Tax Liability
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net
Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information Unaudited [Table]
schedule of quarterly financial information Unaudited [Table]
Tabular disclosure of the quarterly financial data in the annual financial statements. The disclosure includes financial information for each fiscal quarter for the current and previous year, including revenues, operating income and net income.
schedule of quarterly financial information Unaudited [Line Items]
schedule of quarterly financial information Unaudited [Line Items]
[Line Items] for Tabular disclosure of the quarterly financial data in the annual financial statements. The disclosure includes financial information for each fiscal quarter for the current and previous year, including revenues, operating income and net income.
Revenues
Operating Income (Loss)
Schedule of Debt [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Debt [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Guarantor Obligations
Schedule of Guarantor Obligations [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities [Table Text Block]
Trading Securities [Table Text Block]
Trading Securities [Table Text Block]
Commitments and Contingencies
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block]
Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block]
Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block]