May 13, 2026 - TRA Newswire -

It's called SMX, the Southeast Mexico Express, and it's being upgraded with a dedicated train and shortened transit times between Southeastern states, Texas and Mexico.

The CPKC-CSX combo service launched last week and promises faster delivery of goods between markets that include Dallas and Monterrey to Atlanta, Charlotte and central Florida.

Between Dallas and Atlanta the transit time will be reduced from three to two days, Atlanta to Monterrey gets three day service and Atlanta to central Mexico destinations delivery time is to be pegged at four days.

"These service upgrades, providing approximately 20 to 45 percent improvement to SMX transit times, reflect our ongoing commitment to providing more best-in-class, flexible transportation solutions to our customers looking for innovative ways to reach new markets". according to CPKC President & CEO Keith Creel. "Together with CSX, the SMX offers a level of speed, flexibility and dependability that reaches additional growing markets in the U.S. Southeast. This is a premium rail solution that cannot be replicated because we have the best route linking shippers to Texas and to Mexico that will move more trucks to rail."

Steve Angel, president and CEO of CSX indicated "The upgraded SMX service demonstrates the long‑term investments CSX has made to strengthen this corridor and provide more consistent, reliable service for our customers. By working closely with CPKC, we’re expanding access and delivering meaningful improvements for shippers moving freight between the key markets of the Southeast U.S. and Mexico."

Steve Angel, president and CEO of CSX indicated "The upgraded SMX service demonstrates the long‑term investments CSX has made to strengthen this corridor and provide more consistent, reliable service for our customers. By working closely with CPKC, we’re expanding access and delivering meaningful improvements for shippers moving freight between the key markets of the Southeast U.S. and Mexico."

The Southeast Mexico Express began in late 2024 after the companies received regulatory approval to acquire a portion of the former Meridian and Bigbee Railroad. This allowed direct service between CPKC and CSX where they meet near Myrtlewood, Alabama. Significant capital investments were made in track, bridges, and signal infrastructure on the former MNBR line to enhance capacity and increase speed.

This connection acts as a new, shorter route between the CPKC system and the CSX network, bypassing more congested, traditional interchange points.

Photo credit: CPKC