A railroad flat car with auto loads, also known as an auto rack or autorack, is a specialized type of railcar designed to transport automobiles. These railcars have multiple levels or decks that can accommodate vehicles, allowing for efficient and secure transportation of cars, trucks, and other automotive vehicles by rail. These are just a few examples of the many types of railroad flat cars that can be used to transport autos. The specific type of flatcar used will depend on the type of auto being transported and the distance it needs to be moved.
Bulkhead flatcar: This type of flatcar has sturdy end-walls (bulkheads) to prevent loads from shifting past the ends of the car. Loads typically carried are pipe, steel slabs, utility poles and lumber, though lumber and utility poles are increasingly being hauled by skeleton cars.
Autorack: This type of flatcar is specifically designed to carry automobiles. It has a series of rails on the deck that the cars can be driven onto. Autoracks are often used to transport new cars from the factory to dealerships.
Piggyback flatcar: This type of flatcar is designed to carry semi-trailer trucks. The trucks are driven onto the car and then secured in place. Piggyback flatcars are often used to transport freight over long distances.
High quality, traditionally sized RailKing Freight Cars provide detailed bodies and colorful paint schemes for the O Gauge railroader. MTH makes an enormous variety of RailKing Freight Cars, including many different car types and roadnames. No matter what era or part of the country you are modeling, RailKing is sure to have something for you.
