Special Freight and Package Services CHAPTER 16

Special Freight and Package Service Standard clearances and load limits are included in freight tariffs Most routes provide at least AAR “Plate B” clearance and 220,000 lbs weight for 8 wheeled cars Special arrangements need to be made if shipment is 20 feet above the rail, 11 ft 6 in wide, and 125 tons net weight

Special Freight and Package Service Railroad determines if any special requirements are needed – Low speed travel by freight or special trains – Scheduling to avoid trains on opposing tracks – Uncoupling levers inactivated on multi-car shipments Railcars of 16 axle or more when loaded require special train service and dedicated power unit and crew Most specialty cars are owned an operated by private companies (36 axle railcar is around 800 tons)

Schnabel Cars Depressed Center Flat Cars

Forwarders Forwarder: accepts LCL and LTL at a package rate and puts together into a car for a long haul. – Rail company has a full car – Forwarder makes a profit – Allow regular dispatch of cars Shipper Associations: same a forwarder except organized on a cooperative, nonprofit, and not allowed to advertise. Shipper Agent or Consolidator: act a middle man to manage movement of goods at a regular service for all mode of shipping.