Property and Equipment [Abstract] Property and Equipment [Abstract] Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block] Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Scenario [Axis] Scenario [Axis] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Axis] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Axis] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Domain] Defined Benefit Plan and Other Postretirement Benefit Plan [Domain] Pension Benefits Pension Plan [Member] Defined Benefit Plan, Asset Categories [Axis] Defined Benefit Plan, Asset Categories [Axis] Plan Asset Categories [Domain] Plan Asset Categories [Domain] Real Estate [Member] Real Estate [Member] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Measurements, Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] Beginning balance Defined Benefit Plans, Fair Value of Plan Assets Excluding Accrued Dividend And Interest Receivable Defined benefit plans, fair value of plan assets excluding accrued dividend and interest receivable. Purchases, Sales, and Settlements Defined Benefit Plan, Purchases, Sales, and Settlements Ending balance Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity [Abstract] Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Members Equity Members Equity [Member] Member's equity. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Increase (Decrease) in Member's Equity [Roll Forward] Increase (Decrease) In Members Equity [Roll Forward] [Roll Forward] Increase (Decrease) In Members Equity [Roll Forward] [Roll Forward] Balance Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Total Comprehensive income, net of tax Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Cash distributions to Parent 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. Balance Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract] Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract] 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] Trade and Other Accounts Receivable, 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] Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block] Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block] Goodwill And Intangible Assets And Intangible 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, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment, 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 Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block] Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block] Pension and Other Postretirement Plans, Policy [Policy Text Block] Pension and Other Postretirement Plans, Policy [Policy Text Block] Fair Value Measurement, Policy [Policy Text Block] Fair Value Measurement, Policy [Policy Text Block] Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward] Number of options outstanding, Beginning of period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number Options, Exercised in the period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period Options, Cancelled in the period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures and Expirations in Period Number of options outstanding, End of period Options, Exercisable Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Exercisable, Number Weighted Average Exercise Price, Beginning of period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price Options, Exercises in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Options, Cancelled in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures and Expirations in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Weighted Average Exercise Price, End of period Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Aggregate intrinsic value, Beginning of period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value Aggregate intrinsic value, End of period Options, Exercisable, Aggregate Intrinsic Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Intrinsic Value Total intrinsic value of options exercised Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Intrinsic Value Debt Disclosure [Abstract] 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 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 Remaining Term (in years) Remaining Term Remaining Term Capitalized Obligations Guarantor Obligations, Current Carrying Value 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] Notes and Debentures [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 [Member] Equipment Obligations [Member] Equipment obligations entered into to finance locomotives and railcars. Capital Lease Obligations [Member] Capital Lease Obligations [Member] Mortgage Bonds [Member] Mortgage Bonds [Member] Mortgage Bonds [Member] Financing Obligation [Member] Financing Obligation [Member] Sales leaseback transactions accounted for as financing obligations due to continuing involvement. Unamortized Fair Value Adjustment [Member] Unamortized Fair Value Adjustment [Member] Unamortized fair value adjustment under acquisition method acounting, discount and other, net. Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Total Debt Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Total Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate Total long-term debt Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Current portion of debt Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Current Short-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate Short-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate Quaterly Financial Data Unaudited [Abstract] Quaterly Financial Data Unaudited [Abstract] 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. Revenue, Net Revenue, Net Operating Income (Loss) Operating Income (Loss) Net income Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Equity [Abstract] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table] Pension and Retiree Health and Welfare Benefit Items [Member] Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment [Member] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Axis] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Axis] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Domain] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Domain] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items] Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items] Actuarial losses Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, for Net Gain (Loss), before Tax Prior service credits Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Amortization Adjustment from AOCI, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, for Net Prior Service Cost (Credit), before Tax Total before tax Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest Income Tax (expense) / benefit Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Net of tax Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Axis] Segment, Geographical [Domain] Geographical [Domain] UNITED STATES UNITED STATES International [Member] International [Member] International [Member] Equity Securities [Member] Equity Securities [Member] Corporate Debt Securities [Member] Corporate Debt Securities [Member] Registered investment companies [Member] Registered investment companies [Member] Registered investment companies [Member] US Government Agencies Debt Securities [Member] US Government Agencies Debt Securities [Member] Collateralized Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] Collateralized Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Accrued dividend and interest receivable Accrued Investment Income Receivable Fair Value of Plan Assets Excluding Accrued Dividend And Interest Receivable Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block] Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table] Equity Method Investments [Member] Equity Method Investments [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward] Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), Beginning Balance Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Other comprehensive income before reclassifications Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Reclassifications, Net of Tax Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, before Tax Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), Ending Balance Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Loss Contingencies [Table] Loss Contingencies [Table] Loss Contingency Nature [Axis] Loss Contingency Nature [Axis] Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] Litigation Status [Axis] Litigation Status [Axis] Litigation Status [Domain] Litigation Status [Domain] Litigation Case [Axis] Litigation Case [Axis] Litigation Case Type [Domain] Litigation Case [Domain] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] 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] Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Net of Tax Other comprehensive income: Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Change in Pension and Retiree Health and Welfare benefits, net of tax benefit of $156 million, tax expense of $305 million and tax benefit of $16 million, respectively Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, for Net Gain (Loss), Net of Tax Change in fuel hedge mark-to-market, net of tax benefit of $0 million, $0 million and $7 million, respectively Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, Net of 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 Payables and Accruals [Abstract] Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Disclosure [Text Block] Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Disclosure [Text Block] 1. The Company [Abstract] 1. The Company [Abstract] Nature of Operations [Text Block] Nature of Operations [Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity [Table Text Block] Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity [Table Text Block] Minimum [Member] Minimum [Member] Maximum [Member] Maximum [Member] Property and Equipment under Capital Lease [Member] Property and Equipment under Capital Lease [Member] Property and Equipment under Capital Lease [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 Equipment [Member] Computer Equipment [Member] Construction in Progress [Member] Construction in Progress [Member] Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Property, Plant 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 Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) in Statement of Financial Performance Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table Text Block] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] 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 Capital leases entered into to finance maintenance of way and other vehicles and equipment Income Taxes [Abstract] Income Taxes [Abstract] Income Tax Contingency [Table] Income Tax Contingency [Table] Income Tax Contingency [Line Items] Income Tax Contingency [Line Items] Current Federal Tax Expense (Benefit) Current Federal Tax Expense (Benefit) Current State and Local Tax Expense (Benefit) Current State and Local Tax Expense (Benefit) Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred State and Local Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred State and Local Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] Schedule of Variable Interest Entities Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table Text Block] Debt Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Derivative [Table] Derivative [Table] Concentration Risk Type [Axis] Concentration Risk Type [Axis] Concentration Risk Type [Domain] Concentration Risk Type [Domain] Cost of Fuel [Member] Cost of Fuel [Member] Cost of Fuel [Member] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Axis] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Axis] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain] Operating Expense [Member] Operating Expense [Member] Derivative Instrument Risk [Axis] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Contract Type [Domain] Derivative Contract [Domain] Fuel Contracts Fuel Contracts [Member] Fuel Contracts [Member] Derivative [Line Items] Derivative [Line Items] Fuel cost percent of total operating costs Concentration Risk, Percentage Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] Related Party Transactions [Abstract] Related Party Transactions Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block] 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 Maturities of Long-term Debt [Abstract] Debt Maturities [Abstract] Debt Maturities [Abstract] Debt Maturities [Abstract] Debt maturities - 2015 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Next Twelve Months Debt maturities - 2016 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two Debt maturities - 2017 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three Debt maturities - 2018 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four Debt maturities - 2019 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 Total Debt excluding capital leases Long-term Debt Total Debt excluding capital leases, Fair Value Long-term Debt, Fair Value 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 - 2015 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 - 2016 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 - 2017 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 - 2018 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 - 2019 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. Retiree Health and Welfare Benefits Other Postretirement Benefit Plan [Member] Beginning balance Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets Actual return on plan assets Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Return on Plan Assets Employer contributions Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Employer Plan participants' contributions Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Plan Participants Benefits paid Defined Benefit Plan, Benefits Paid Administrative expenses Defined Benefit Plan, Administration Expenses Settlements Defined Benefit Plan, Settlements, Plan Assets Ending balance Funded status (plan assets less projected benefit obligations) Defined Benefit Plan, Funded Status of Plan Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Balance Sheet [Abstract] Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Balance Sheet [Abstract] Pension and Health and Welfare Benefit Plans, Current Liabilities Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Current Liabilities Pension and Health and Welfare Benefit Plans, Liabilities Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Balance Sheet Pension and Health and Welfare Benefit Plans, Other Assets Defined Benefit Plan, Assets for Plan Benefits, Noncurrent Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table] Comprehensive Income Comprehensive Income (Loss) Note [Text Block] Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract] Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost [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 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 Gains (Losses) Settlements Settlements recognized in net benefit cost Settlements recognized in net benefit cost Net (benefit) cost recognized Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost 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] Goodwill Goodwill Goodwill, Impaired, Accumulated Impairment Loss Goodwill, Impaired, Accumulated Impairment Loss Goodwill, Acquired During Period Goodwill, Acquired During Period 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] 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 Additions for tax positions taken in prior years Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions Reductions for tax positions taken in prior years Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decrease Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions Reductions for tax positions as a result of settlements Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decrease Resulting from Settlements with Taxing Authorities 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 Unrecognized Tax Benefits Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate 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] 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 Current portion of deferred income taxes Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance, Current Other current assets Other Assets, Current Total current assets Assets, Current Property and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $3,550 and $2,232, respectively 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 Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current Long-term debt Deferred income taxes Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Noncurrent 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. 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. Pension and retiree health and welfare liability Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Liabilities, 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) Total equity Total liabilities and equity Liabilities and Equity Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) 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] Expected benefit payments, 2015 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Next Twelve Months Expected benefit payments, 2016 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Two Expected benefit payments, 2017 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Three Expected benefit payments, 2018 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Four Expected benefit payments, 2019 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Five Expected benefit payments, 2020 - 2024 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Five Fiscal Years Thereafter Schedule of Related Party Transactions [Table Text Block] Schedule of Related Party Transactions [Table Text Block] Schedule of Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities [Table Text Block] Schedule of Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities [Table Text Block] Future amortization of actuarial losses Defined Benefit Plan, Future Amortization of Gain (Loss) Future amortization of prior service credits Defined Benefit Plan, Future Amortization of Prior Service Cost (Credit) Future amortization of actuarial losses and prior service credits Defined Benefit Plan Future Amortization of Gains Losses and Prior Service Credits Cost Amount included in accumulated other comprehensive income (AOCI) related to gain (loss) and prior service credits (costs) expected to be recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost for the fiscal year that follows the most recent annual statement of financial position. 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 Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax Amortization of net loss Amortization of prior service credits Plan amendment Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Prior Service Cost (Credit) Arising During Period, before Tax Actuarial (loss) gain Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Unamortized Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, before Tax Settlements Other Comprehensive Income Defined Benefit Plans Settlements Other Comprehensive Income Defined Benefit Plans Settlements Prior service credits Prior Service Credits Amount before tax of cost (credit) of benefit changes attributable to plan participants' prior service resulting from a plan design change that has not been recognized in net periodic benefit cost (credit). Ending balance Pre-tax amount recognized in AOCL at December 31, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net of Tax [Abstract] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net of Tax [Abstract] After-tax amount recognized in AOCL at December 31, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net of Tax Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax [Abstract] Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax [Abstract] Net gain (loss) Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Gains (Losses), before Tax Plan amendment Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Prior Service Cost (Credit), before Tax Prior Service Costs Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Prior Service Credits (Cost), before Tax Prior Service Costs, before tax, that resulted from Plan design change, which has not yet been recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost. Settlements Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Settlements Before Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Settlements Before Tax Income Statement [Abstract] Revenues 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 Interest expense Interest and Debt Expense Other expense, net Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Income before income taxes Income tax expense Net income Receivables [Abstract] Allowance for Bill Adjustments and Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current 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, Current, Greater than 90 Days Past Due Accounts Receivable, Current, Greater than 90 Days Past Due Accounts Receivable, Current, Greater than 90 Days Past Due Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] 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 Tax refund from parent company Tax Refund From Parent Tax Refund From Parent Tax payments to parent company Income Tax Payments, To Parent By Reporting Entity Income Tax Payments, To Parent By Reporting Entity Revenues from related parties Revenue from Related Parties Related Party Transaction Expenditures with Affiliates Related Party Transaction Expenditures From Transactions with Affiliates Expenditures recognized resulting from transactions (excluding transactions that are eliminated in consolidated or combined financial statements) with related party. Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table] Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [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] 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 Unconsolidated Partnership, assets Variable Interest Entity, Assets Variable Interest Entity, Assets Unamortized investment balance classified as Other Assets Variable Interest Entity, Nonconsolidated, Unamortized Investment Balance Variable Interest Entity, Nonconsolidated, Unamortized Investment Balance Remaining commitments classified as Other Liabilities Other Commitment Maximum exposure to loss Variable Interest Entity, Reporting Entity Involvement, Maximum Loss Exposure, Amount 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] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Maturity Schedule [Abstract] 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, 2015 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months Amortization of intangible liabilities, 2015 Finite-lived Intangible Liabilities, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months Finite-lived Intangible Liabilities, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months Amortization of intangible assets, 2016 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two Amortization of intangible liabilities, 2016 Finite-Lived Intangible Liabilities, Amortization Expense, Year Two Finite-Lived Intangible Liabilities, Amortization Expense, Year Two Amortization of intangible assets, 2017 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three Amortization of intangible liabilities, 2017 Finite-Lived Intangible Liabilities, Amortization Expense, Year Three Finite-Lived Intangible Liabilities, Amortization Expense, Year Three Amortization of intangible assets, 2018 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four Amortization of intangible liabilities, 2018 Finite-Lived Intangible Liabilities, Amortization Expense, Year Four Finite-Lived Intangible Liabilities, Amortization Expense, Year Four Amortization of intangible assets, 2019 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five Amortization of intangible liabilities, 2019 Finite-Lived Intangible Liabilities, Amortization Expense, Year Five Finite-Lived Intangible Liabilities, Amortization Expense, Year Five Schedule of Net Benefit Costs Schedule of Net Benefit Costs [Table Text Block] Schedule of Net Funded Status [Table Text Block] Schedule of Net Funded Status [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 2015 - 2024 [Table Text Block] Schedule of Expected Benefit Payments [Table Text Block] 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. Coal [Member] Coal [Member] Agricultural Products [Member] Agricultural Products [Member] Agricultural Products commodity group portion of total freight revenues. Nature Of Operations [Line Items] Nature Of Operations [Line Items] [Line Items] for Nature Of Operations [Table] Rail Route Network Distance 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 Business Combination, Step Acquisition, Remaining Equity Interest Acquired, Percentage 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. Other Intangible Assets and Liabilities Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets and Liabilities [Text Block] Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets and Liabilities [Text Block] Junior Subordinated Debt [Member] Junior Subordinated Debt [Member] Corporate Debt Securities SEC Debt Shelf Registration SEC Debt Shelf Registration [Member] SEC Debt Shelf Registration [Member] Three Point Four Zero Zero Percent Debentures Due September 1, 2024 [Member] [Member] Three Point Four Zero Zero Percent Debentures Due September 1, 2024 [Member] [Member] Three Point Four Zero Zero Percent Debentures Due September 1, 2024 [Member] Four Point Five Five Zero Percent Debentures Due September 1, 2044 [Member] Four Point Five Five Zero Percent Debentures Due September 1, 2044 [Member] Four Point Five Five Zero Percent Debentures Due September 1, 2044 [Member] Three Point Seven Five Zero Percent Debentures Due April 1, 2024 [Member] [Member] Three Point Seven Five Zero Percent Debentures Due April 1, 2024 [Member] [Member] Three Point Seven Five Zero Percent Debentures Due April 1, 2024 [Member] [Member] Four Point Nine Zero Zero Percent Debentures Due April 1, 2044 [Member] [Member] Four Point Nine Zero Zero Percent Debentures Due April 1, 2044 [Member] [Member] Four Point Nine Zero Zero Percent Debentures Due April 1, 2044 [Member] Three Point Eight Five Zero Percent Debentures Due September 1, 2023 [Member] Three Point Zero Five Percent Debentures Due September 1, 2022 [Member] Three Point Zero Five Percent Debentures Due September 1, 2022 [Member] Five Point One Five Zero Percent Debentures Due September 1, 2043 [Member] Four Point Nine Zero Zero Percent Debentures Due April 1, 2044 [Member] Four Point Nine Zero Zero Percent Debentures Due April 1, 2044 [Member] Three Point Zero Zero Zero Percent Debentures Due March 15, 2023 Three Point Zero Five Percent Debentures Due March 15, 2022 [Member] Three Point Zero Five Percent Debentures Due March 15, 2022 [Member] Four Point Four Five Zero Percent Debentures Due March 15, 2043 [Member] Four Point Four Zero Percent Debentures Due March 15, 2042 [Member] Four Point Four Zero Percent Debentures Due March 15, 2042 [Member] Three Point Zero Five Zero Percent Debentures Due September 1, 2022 [Member] Three Point Four Five Percent Debentures Due September 15, 2021 [Member] Three Point Four Five Percent Debentures Due September 15, 2021 [Member] Four Point Three Seven Five Percent Debentures Due September 1, 2042 [Member] Four Point Nine Five Percent Debentures Due September 15, 2041 [Member] Four Point Nine Five Percent Debentures Due September 15, 2041 [Member] Three Point Zero Five Zero Percent Debentures Due March 15, 2022 [Member] Four Point One Zero Percent Debentures Due June 1, 2021 [Member] Four Point One Zero Percent Debentures Due June 1, 2021 [Member] Four Point Four Zero Zero Percent Debentures Due March 15, 2042 [Member] Five Point Four Zero Percent Debentures Due June 1, 2041 [Member] Five Point Four Zero Percent Debentures Due June 1, 2041 [Member] Debentures issued amount Debt Instrument, Face Amount Debentures interest rate Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Additional debt securities authorized for issuance by the Board of Managers Additional Debt Securities Authorized For Issuance By The Board of Managers Additional Debt Securities Authorized For Issuance By The Board of Managers Remaining amount of debt securities that may be issued Debt Instrument, Unused Borrowing Capacity, Amount Subordinated notes related to financial covenants Debt Instrument, Covenant Debt Certain issued and outstanding junior subordinated notes pertaining to certain financial covenants. 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] Asbestos Issue [Member] Asbestos Issue [Member] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Current Liabilities [Member] Current Liabilities [Member] Current Liabilities [Member] Cash and Cash Equivalents [Axis] Cash and Cash Equivalents [Axis] Cash and Cash Equivalents [Domain] Cash and Cash Equivalents [Domain] Time Deposits, and Money Market Funds [Member] Time Deposits, and Money Market Funds [Member] Time Deposits, and Money Market Funds [Member] BNSF Insurance Company BNSF Insurance Company [Member] BNSF Insurance Company [Member] 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 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 Decrease in personal injury expense Decrease in personal injury expense Decrease in personal injury expense Reduction in expense due to settlements of personal injury liabiltiies Reduction in expense due to settlements of personal injury liabilities Reduction in expense due to settlements of personal injury liabilities 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 60 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 Future costs to settle personal injury claims, minimum Loss Contingency, Range of Possible Loss, Minimum Future costs to settle personal injury claims, maximum Loss Contingency, Range of Possible Loss, Maximum Loss Contingency Accrual [Roll Forward] Loss Contingency Accrual [Roll Forward] Beginning balance Loss Contingency Accrual Accruals Loss Contingency Accrual, Provision Payments Loss Contingency Accrual, Payments Ending balance Cash and Cash Equivalents [Abstract] Cash and Cash Equivalents [Abstract] OCI Parenthetical [Abstract] OCI Parenthetical [Abstract] Change in Pension and Retiree Health and Welfare benefits, net of tax (benefit) / expense Change in Pension and Health and Welfare, net of tax (benefit)/expense Change in Pension and Health and Welfare, net of tax (benefit)/expense Change in fuel hedge mark-to-market, net of tax expense/(benefit) Fuel Interest Hedge Mark To Market Tax (Benefit) Expense The net tax (benefit) expense resulting from the change in accumulated gains and losses from derivative instrument designated and qualifying as the effective portion of cash flow hedges, net of tax effect. 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] Employment Benefit Plans Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block] Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Hedging Relationship, by Income Statement Location, by Derivative Instrument Risk [Table] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Domain] Income Statement Location [Domain] Fuel Expense Fuel Expense [Member] Fuel Expense [Member] Other Comprehensive Income Location [Axis] Other Comprehensive Income Location [Axis] Other Comprehensive Income Location [Domain] Other Comprehensive Income Location [Domain] Hedging Relationship [Axis] Hedging Relationship [Axis] Hedging Relationship [Domain] Hedging Relationship [Domain] Cash Flow Hedging Cash Flow Hedging [Member] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Amount of Gain or (Loss) Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (OCI) on Derivatives (Effective Portion) Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Effective Portion, Net Amount of Gain or (Loss) Recognized from AOCL into Income (Effective Portion) Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income, Effective Portion, Net Amount of Gain or (Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivatives (Ineffective Portion and Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing) Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income, Ineffective Portion and Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing, Net 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] 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 Actuarial loss (gain) Defined Benefit Plan, Actuarial Gain (Loss) Plan amendment Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Amendments Settlements Defined Benefit Plan, Settlements, Benefit Obligation Prior service credits 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, Pension Plans with Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets, Aggregate Accumulated Benefit Obligation Schedule of Future Minimum Lease Payments for Capital and Operating Leases [Table] Schedule of Future Minimum Lease Payments for Capital and Operating Leases [Table] 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 Future Minimum Lease Payments for Capital and Operating Leases [Line Items] Schedule of Future Minimum Lease Payments for Capital and Operating Leases [Line Items] [Line Items] 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. Rent Expense for Operating 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. Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] Minimum capital lease payments - 2015 Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months Minimum capital lease payments - 2016 Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Two Years Minimum capital lease payments - 2017 Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Three Years Minimum capital lease payments - 2018 Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Four Years Minimum capital lease payments - 2019 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 - 2015 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months Minimum operating lease payments - 2016 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years Minimum operating lease payments - 2017 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years Minimum operating lease payments - 2018 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years Minimum operating lease payments - 2019 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 Accumulated depreciation Schedule of Operating Leased Assets [Table] Schedule of Operating Leased Assets [Table] Equipment Equipment [Member] Operating Leased Assets [Line Items] Operating Leased Assets [Line Items] Future minimum lease payments Other Assets Other Asset, Investment in Variable Interest Entity [Text Block] Other Asset, Investment in Variable Interest Entity [Text Block] Effective Income Tax Rate, Continuing Operations, Tax Rate Reconciliation [Abstract] Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent [Abstract] 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 Other, net Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Adjustments, Percent Effective Tax Rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] OPERATING ACTIVITIES Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] 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 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. Contributions to qualified pension plan Pension Contributions 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. 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 Fuel Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [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, Hedging Deferred Tax Liabilities, Hedging Amount of deferred tax liability attributable to taxable temporary differences from hedging activities. Deferred Tax Liability, Pension and Retiree Health and Welfare Deferred Tax Liability, Pension and Retiree Health and Welfare Amount of deferred tax liability attributable to taxable temporary differences from pension and retiree health and welfare. Deferred Tax Liabilities, Other Deferred Tax Liabilities, Other Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Casualty and environmental Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals Deferred Tax Asset, Tax Deferred Expense, 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 Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Long-term Debt Fair Value Adjustment 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, 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 Asset, Deferred Tax Expense, Pension and Retiree Health and Welfare Benefits Deferred Tax Assets, Other Deferred Tax Assets, Other Deferred Tax Assets, Gross Deferred Tax Assets, Gross Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Noncurrent Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Current Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Current Plan Assumption [Axis] Plan Assumption [Axis] Plan Assumption [Axis] Plan Assumption [Domain] Plan Assumption [Domain] [Domain] for Plan Assumption [Axis] Mortality Table [Member] Mortality Table [Member] Mortality Table [Member] Scenario, Forecast [Member] Scenario, Forecast [Member] 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 - expense Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Discount Rate Expected Long-term Return on Assets - expense Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Expected Long-term Return on Assets Rate of Compensation Increase - expense 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 Defined Benefit Plan, Other Changes Defined Benefit Plan, Other Changes 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 (participants over 65) Assumed health care cost trend rate for next year (participants over 65) Assumed health care cost trend rate for next year (participants over 65) Assumed health care cost trend rate for next year (participants under 65) Assumed health care cost trend rate for next year (participants under 65) Assumed health care cost trend rate for next year (participants under 65) Defined Benefit Plan, Ultimate Health Care Cost Trend Rate Defined Benefit Plan, Ultimate Health Care Cost Trend Rate Defined Benefit Plan, Year that Rate Reaches Ultimate Trend Rate Defined Benefit Plan, Year that Rate Reaches Ultimate Trend Rate Defined Benefit Plan, 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 Defined Benefit Plan, 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 Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Increase on Accumulated Postretirement Benefit Obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Increase on Accumulated Postretirement Benefit Obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Decrease on Accumulated Postretirement Benefit Obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Decrease on Accumulated Postretirement Benefit Obligation 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 Total accrued liabilities for interest and penalites Income Tax Examination, Penalties and Interest Accrued Total interest and penalties recognized as expense (benefit) Income Tax Examination, Penalties and Interest Expense 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] Defined Benefit Plan, Estimated Future Employer Contributions in Next Fiscal Year Defined Benefit Plans, Estimated Future Employer Contributions in Next Fiscal Year Description of 401(k) plans and non-qualified defined contribution plan Description of Defined Contribution Pension and Other Postretirement Plans 401(k) matching expense Defined Contribution Plan, Cost Recognized Collective bargaining agreements description Multiemployer Plans, Plan Benefits, Description Multiemployer Plan, insurance premiums Multiemployer Plan, Period Contributions 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 Environmental Issue Environmental Issue [Member] 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 Additional Expense Based on Actuarial Study Results Additional Expense Based on Actuarial Study Results Additional Expense Based on Actuarial Study Results Reduction In expense due to settlements of environmental liabilities Reduction In Expense Due to Settlements of Environmental Liabilities Reduction In Expense Due to Settlements of Environmental Liabilities 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 for environmental liabilities, minimum Future costs for environmental liabilities, maximum Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies [Roll Forward] Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies [Roll Forward] Beginning balance Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies Accruals Accrual For Environmental Loss Contingencies Provision Accrual For Environmental Loss Contingencies Provision Payments Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies, Payments Ending balance Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Accounts Receivable, Net Loans, Notes, Trade and Other Receivables Disclosure [Text Block] 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 Rents and leases Accrued Rent, Current Customer incentives Customer Advances and Deposits, Current Casualty and environmental liabilities Other Other Accrued Liabilities, Current Total