Union Pacific’s first-quarter profit creeps up 1% as railroad limits expenses [Video]

OMAHA, Neb. – Union Pacific’s first-quarter profit crept 1% higher as the railroad tightened up on expenses — particularly its fuel bill — even though it delivered slightly less freight.

The Omaha, Nebraska-based railroad said Thursday it made $1.64 billion, or $2.69 per share. That’s more than last year’s $1.63 billion, or $.2.67 per share, even though last year’s numbers were helped by a 14-cent gain on a real estate sale. Shipping volume was down 1% in the quarter.

The analysts surveyed by FactSet Research were expecting earnings of $2.51 per share.

“When I look at how we’re performing, I see improvement across the board,” CEO Jim Vena said. “The network is operating fluidly and efficiently, allowing us to meet the demand in the market. And that drove the financial success.”

The railroad’s revenue was hurt by a drop in fuel surcharge revenue as fuel prices fell. Union Pacific said it generated $6.03 billion in …