NS has a fleet of more than 21,000 coal cars, including manual hopper cars for bottom-drop customers, gondolas for rotary dump service, high cubic capacity coke hoppers, and air-operated quick discharge hoppers.

As NS’ oldest steel hoppers and gondola cars reach the end of their productive lives, they are replaced with new high-capacity equipment built to new industry standards for 286,000 lbs. gross weight on rail loadings.

We replaced 1,000 steel gondolas in 2017, and we plan to replace another 1,000 in 2018 to maintain a solid and reliable fleet. 

Over the years, NS has replaced steel manual hoppers with new aluminum air-operated quick-discharge hoppers. NS also has added twin-tub coal gondolas constructed of carbon steel, stainless steel, and aluminum. These rugged, lightweight cars are compatible with all NS-served car dumpers and typical thaw shed operations performed by NS customers.

Whatever your needs, Norfolk Southern is committed to providing safe and reliable equipment from our extensive fleet of more than 21,000 coal hoppers and gondolas.