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Types of Heavy Duty Flatcars
Most dimensional cargo requires the use of specialized railcars. These railcars are specifically designed to handle higher weights and excessive dimensions to allow for the cargo to be cleared and handled by the railroads. This equipment is relatively few in number compared to the hundreds of thousands of standard rail equipment. Currently, most specialized rail equipment is owned and maintained by companies other then the railroads, including some shippers. Most, but not all, of the equipment is available for use or lease to shippers.
Railroad equipment is typically labeled with a two letter identification code.
This code usually is an abbreviation of the type of car, but not always.
This page gives a basic description of the 4 main types of cars used in the
shipment of dimensional and other loads needing open special equipment.
For specific details on the car (car dimensions, capacities etc), please
refer to the car owner(s) and or the official equipment register.
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FD Class
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Depressed center flat car of special construction having the portion of floor extending between trucks depressed to provide necessary overhead clearance for lading. |
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FM Class
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Ordinary flat car configuration.
May have multiple axles and/or trucks.
This car has flooring laid over sills and has no sides or ends. |
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May also be called "FMS" to further indicate a steel deck.
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FW Class
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Flat car with hole to enable lading to be lowered due to clearance limits. |
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May also be referred to as a well car
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LS Class
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A car of special construction having two separable interlocking units which form a car body.
Units may be separated and load interposed between and locked in place to form a complete transportation unit. |
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LS cars are commonly referred to as Schnabel Cars.
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