HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Union Pacific posted a strong fourth quarter despite the challenges brought on by the pandemic. A more streamlined operation and lower fuel prices enabled the nation’s largest railroad to post adjusted fourth quarter earnings of $1.6 billion, compared with $1.4 billion in 2019.
Operating revenue of $5.1 billion was down 1% in fourth quarter 2020 compared to fourth quarter 2019. Fourth quarter business volumes, as measured by total revenue carloads, increased 3% compared to 2019. Premium volumes increased compared to 2019, while bulk was flat and industrial declined.
For the full year 2020, Union Pacific reported net income of $5.3 billion or $7.88 per diluted share.
UP is the fourth highest valued company in Reno County at $7.2 million and operates about 25 trains per day through the area.