- This is an example of the alert banner that we can use to highlight breaking developments.
- Learn More
The 2025 national bargaining round concluded on July 6, 2026, with all 12 unions and approximately 30 railroads reaching and ratifying agreements covering more than 100,000 employees through December 31, 2029.
The 18.8% wage increase in the most recent pattern bargaining agreements builds on the historic 24% wage increase from the 2022 bargaining round. Taken together, these wage increases represent a nearly 50% (compounded) wage increase for covered employees between 2020 and 2029.
Enhancements to the health and welfare plan are paired with no increase to the employee contribution rate. Employees’ 2026 health care premiums are about $308/month, well below the national average of more than $500/month for employer-provided family coverage.
The pattern agreements provide for more paid vacation time for employees earlier in their careers.
Learn more about the results of the most recent bargaining round.
Last updated July 6, 2026
A collaborative process delivers a strong, efficient outcome for railroads, unions, and employees Arlington,...
Link to Content
Once ratified, NCCC-BRS deal will close out the current national bargaining round Arlington, Va. (June...
Link to Content
In the one year since national bargaining opened, eleven unions have ratified twelve national agreements...
Link to Content
2025 bargaining round has seen historic collaboration between freight rail carriers and the unions Arlington,...
Link to Content
Find answers to your questions about the freight rail industry and our collective bargaining process.
When did national negotiations start?
The national collective bargaining agreements between freight rail carriers and rail unions reopened for negotiation starting on November 1, 2024. At that time, Section 6 notices were exchanged and bargaining began. Bargaining closed when the final remaining union announced its ratification on July 6, 2026.
Who are the parties involved in national railroad bargaining?
The 2025 round of national bargaining included more than 30 railroads represented by the National Carriers’ Conference Committee and 12 rail unions:
How long did the bargaining process take?
The 2025 round of national handling was the fastest in decades, closing in only 18 months. The prior four rounds averaged more than three years.
