Frequently Asked Questions
Union Pacific is implementing a new management system for general car orders to minimize ordering complexity and improve the way we flow empty cars. Called Total Car Management (TCM), changes in the new system are primarily behind the scenes. See our Car Types page for equipment flowing through the new system.
- How do I order a car?
- What changes will there be on the screens that I see?
- When will I know and how will I see what specific cars are coming to me?
- How will cars be allocated between customers in a specific region?
- How do I get a new product added to my profile?
- How will my company benefit from TCM?
- If I reject a car will it be replaced?
- How will leased cars be handled?
- How much lead time does TCM need in order to supply my cars on time?
- Can I change a car order?
How do I order a car?
The process customers use to order cars won't change, but the car product descriptions will be different. Pattern numbers will also change. Car type products were defined according to existing customer usage, so the new car type products will meet most requirements.
What if the type of car I want doesn't fit a product definitions, or I have special requirements, such as double doors or other specialty equipment?
There is some ability to request specific attributes, such as door and floors on boxcars or weight capacity on flatcars.
What changes will there be on the screens that I see?
The screens customers see will not change. Pattern numbers will change and the car product names will be more meaningful to customers. For instance a 73' centerbeam flatcar had a FLG designation in the past. That has been changed to F73CB. Letters and numbers are used to designate the length and type of car. Where there are changes, for customers who directly type in a pattern number, we've provided an online tool to show you the new number.
When will I know and how will I see what specific cars are coming to me?
Customers will have confirmation that cars are enroute as soon as the system identifies cars for the orders. The car initials and numbers will be available just prior to the serving yard on the current inquiries customer's use today.
How will cars be allocated between customers in a specific region?
Cars will be allocated in a network environment, not a specific region.
How do I get a new product added to my profile?
You will need to talk to your Sales Representative to authorize available car products.
How will my company benefit from TCM?
TCM works in a real time environment. It receives information on new orders and empty releases as they happen. Because the system is working to match cars to orders 24/7, there will be an improvement in on time placement. Car products will improve availability of cars to meet demand and improved utilization of the fleet. Improved utilization results in additional available cars for customers to load.
If I reject a car will it be replaced?
TCM will replace the car if it is rejected for quality reasons. If the car is no longer needed by the customer, it will not be replaced. If a car is 'bad ordered' enroute to the customer it will be replaced.
How will leased cars be handled?
The current process for handling shipper leased/controlled cars will not change.
How much lead time does TCM need in order to supply my cars on time?
TCM will require orders placed at least 7 days in advance of the want date of the cars.
Can I change a car order?
Yes. Customers may increase future orders as long as they give 7 days lead time. Current orders may be reduced by customers to the number of cars already applied. Customers can cancel orders, as long as no cars have been applied to their order.