CSX Corporation offers an in-kind donation program that supports eligible organizations through two major initiatives: Intermodal Transportation Services and Railroad Equipment and Materials. These programs are designed to reduce transportation and operational costs for nonprofit and public-serving organizations by leveraging CSX’s expansive rail infrastructure and surplus assets.
The Intermodal Transportation Services program provides eligible organizations with access to CSX’s intermodal equipment and rail service across its network. This service is especially suitable for freight movements over 500 miles, but CSX’s in-kind program requires only that the freight's origin and destination are within 250 miles of a CSX intermodal facility. Utilizing CSX’s door-to-door logistics network, the program facilitates pickup from the point of origin, rail transport between terminals, and delivery to the final destination. CSX offers assistance in identifying the most appropriate equipment, drawing from its extensive container fleet and partner network.
Eligibility for in-kind intermodal transportation requires applicants to be either a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization listed in the IRS Master File, a state or local government entity such as law enforcement or fire departments, or an accredited educational institution from pre-K to the university level. The program excludes organizations that operate outside of CSX’s service area, discriminate in service or hiring, or have political, religious (unless IRS registered), or controversial affiliations.
In addition to transportation, CSX offers in-kind donations of railroad-related materials and equipment, including retired rail cars when available. These donations are distributed based on inventory and applicant eligibility. Items such as rail, ties, and spikes are not available. Once an item becomes available, CSX coordinates directly with the applicant to arrange its transfer, provided the request was submitted within the past 90 days.
Organizations can apply online for either type of in-kind support. CSX will contact applicants if and when their requested equipment or material becomes available. All applications are reviewed for alignment with CSX’s mission to serve community-wide needs through responsible and impactful resource allocation.
