return to top1. What determines whether a load is dimensional or high and wide load?
Dimensional loads are generally described as any load exceeding any of the following criteria:
Loads requiring special equipment may also be considered dimensional. Dimensional loads come in all shapes and sizes. A load inside these parameters may also be considered dimensional under certain circumstances. Only the NS Clearance Department may make the determination of a dimensional or non-dimensional shipment. Dimensional shipments are subject to delays not otherwise affecting non-dimensional shipments. Dimensional shipments require a clearance file in order to move across the railroad. The Clearance Department is responsible for clearing routes, and monitoring loaded dimensional shipments for safe and efficient movement of dimensional and heavy loads within Norfolk Southern' s published clearances.
2. How do I move a dimensional shipment by rail?
The process begins with you, the shipper. Please see our Step-by-Step Guide to Shipping Your Dimensional Load. You may begin by completing the online Clearance and Rate Request form. Please note that it is the responsibility of the shipper to locate a suitable siding for unloading from the railcar prior to shipment. Shipper must also coordinate logistics of unloading at the site, including necessary permission and access, equipment and personnel. Shipper must include street address for unloading location on the Clearance and Rate Request.
3. Which railroad do I contact to request a clearance file, obtain rates and order cars?
The shipper must obtain rates, clearances and order cars from the originating railroad. Please note that interline moves require additional time for clearance and rating from foreign roads.
4. How do I obtain a clearance file?
Begin by filling out the Clearance and Rate Request Form found on our website. NS clearance files are valid for six months from date of issue.
5. What happens once I request a clearance file and a rate?
The NS Clearance Department reviews the information you provided. Once a determination is made, or if more information is needed, a representative will contact you.
6. How do I pay for my rail shipment?
Obtaining credit is the preferred method of doing business with Norfolk Southern. Please complete the online credit application . You may also pre-pay for your shipment by wire transfer. A pre-paid wire transfer must include payment for all freight charges, any applicable fuel surcharge and any accessorial charges. If you choose to pay by wire transfer, you must pay before your car is inspected and include your company’s name (or shipper name, if different), the shipment’s origin and destination as stated in the waybill, the car number and the governing rate authority.
7. Do dimensional loads require special handling on the railroad?
Yes. Some dimensional loads require:
8. How do I know if I need a heavy-duty flat car?
The Clearance Department will determine the necessary car type based on the specifications you provided in the Clearance and Rate Request Form. A representative will contact you regarding the necessary equipment for your shipment.
To order heavy-duty flat cars, fill in the Heavy Duty Flat Car Request Form. Allow at least 4 to 6 weeks in advance of loading. To order a standard flat car, please use AccessNS.
10. What is an idler, and how do I know if I need one?
An idler is an empty car placed between your shipment and the next load. Idlers are required for shipments that overhang the end sills of a railcar and/or are of excessive weight as determined by the NS engineering department. The NS Clearance Department will determine if one or more idler cars is needed for your shipment.
11. What are Special Train Charges?
Special Train charges are applied to dimensional moves that require special train service or special handling. Special train service and charges are in addition to regular freight charges. Special Train Charges are assessed for numerous reasons, including (but not limited to):
12. When is circuitous routing required?
Circuitous routing may be necessary when a load exceeds the weight or dimensional maximums for a given route. The routing is necessary to move the load safely to destination. Circuitous routing will likely affect the freight rate and transit time.
13. Who loads and secures the railcar?
The shipper is responsible for loading and securing shipments to the railcar. However, NS Marketing Representatives can provide contact information for qualified riggers, experienced in loading equipment in compliance with AAR Open Top Loading Rules.
If a load is off center on the rail car, counterweights may be necessary. Width is determined by measuring the widest half of the load and doubling it.
14. How do I obtain approval for forwarding my dimensional load?
Once the car is loaded, shipper contacts NS Centralized Yard Operations at 800-898-4296 to request a mechanical inspection. Ask for the representative who covers your geographic area. Mechanical inspection and finalized measurements are submitted to NS Clearances. If the finalized measurements are within dimensions, previously approved by NS Clearances for this route, the dimensional load may be approved for forwarding. NS clearance files are valid for six months from date of issue.
15. How do I contact my marketing representative?