This exceeded the company’s prior record, set in the first quarter of 2001, by 1.9%, and is a 3.9% increase over last year and Norfolk Southern’s highest level of product handled since it merged with Conrail in 1999.

The rail company also announced this week that its second-quarter profit nearly doubled, reporting earnings of $US424 million compared to $US213 million during the same period last year. Operating revenue also increased 19% to $US2.15 billion, up from $US1.81 billion, and reported coal revenue of $US578 million, a 36% jump.

“Norfolk Southern’s exceptional second-quarter and first-half performance were driven by strong revenue improvement, a better operating ratio and sound rail operations,” said company chief David Goode.

Norfolk Southern president Wick Moorman attributed the increased volume to demand, and its ability to meet it. “If you don't offer the service the customers need, you're not going to get the business,” he said.

A leader in the transportation sector, the company operates about 21,300 route miles in 22 eastern US states, the District of Columbia, and Ontario, Canada.