Automotive Rail Car Types

Union Pacific owns or leases approximately 18,000 rail cars used to transport motor vehicles, more than any other railroad. Below is information related to the equipment types employed to transport finished vehicles.

Equipment for Transporting Vehicles

Type of Rail EquipmentPrimary Use
(type of vehicle)		Approximate
Load Factor
Articulated Bi-LevelTrucks, SUVs, Mini-vans14 - 16
AutoMaxTrucks, SUVs, Mini-vans, Automobiles18 - 26
Bi-LevelTrucks, SUVs, Mini-vans8 - 10
Tri-LevelAutomobiles14 - 15
Uni-LevelLarge Vehicles, Vans, Tractor Trailers2 - 4

Equipment for Transporting Materials (Parts)

Type of
Rail Equipment		Primary Use
Approximate
Load Factor
Boxcar - 60' & 60' High CubeAuto Parts145,200 to 198,997 lbs.
Boxcar - 86'Auto Parts145,000 lbs.