Intermodal Loading Guide

  1. General Rules 
  2. Load Restraint Methods  
  3. Hazardous Material Guidelines  
  4. Restricted and Forbidden Articles (PDF File)
  5. Recommended Securement Matrix   
  6. Damage Notification Policy 
  7. General Blocking and Bracing Requirements--Coiled Products  
  8. Sample Contract: Coils, Rolls, Reels or Spools--Minimum Shipping Requirements (PDF File)   
  9. Intermodal General Loading Guidelines (PDF File)    

Products in Closed Trailers and Containers

The loading methods described here are minimum standards. It may be necessary to supplement these methods in some instances. If the loading procedures or principles detailed in this section don't seem to cover a specific shipment, contact a member of the Union Pacific Damage Prevention Field Managers for assistance and/or instructions.

All rules apply both to trailers and containers, regardless of the shipping plan used. It must be understood that trailers or containers may move in a backwards or reverse direction for all or a portion of their journey. During the journey, normal transportation forces will shift an unsecured load or cause lading to exert excessive pressure against the nose, rear doors, or side walls. It is imperative that trailers or containers moving in rail service be loaded by the shipper in strict compliance with the general rules in Circular 43-C.

All packages intended for TOFC and COFC shipments of hazardous materials in the United States must meet appropriate US DOT hazardous material regulations concerning packaging specifications, labeling, and marking, as specified in CFR Title 49.