Car Types

Union Pacific is implementing a new car order management system that simplifies the ordering approach. One piece of that improvement is to minimize the number of "flavors" of car types and offer options that customers value the most. This gives us a greater ability to provide the car you want on a timely basis.

Union Pacific owns, operates and maintains millions of dollars worth of rail equipment.  These car descriptions explain each car's general usage, the main types of commodities shipped in each style of car, and some of the special features which distinguish the various styles.

Our Equipment Resources and Policies page provides additional information. See Damage Prevention information for the steps we take to protect your shipments.

Contact the Association of American Railroads (AAR) at (877) 999-8824 to order loading, unloading and other information. Frequently-requested documents include the Office Manual of AAR Interchange Rules and the Field Manual of AAR Interchange Rules.