Government, Machinery and Dimensional Shipments

A Shipper’s Step-by-Step Guide to Moving Your Dimensional Load

CAT 1. Complete the online clearance request form and attach a drawing of the lading to nsclearances@nscorp.com. The Clearance form is sent to the NS Clearance Department and the appropriate marketing contact.

2. Clearance Department processes clearance while marketing contacts the customer and works on a rate.

3. Shipper registers for AccessNS and arranges for payment. Shipper can either apply for credit with NS or arrange for pre-payment by wire transfer. Shipper must ensure that payment conditions are fulfilled prior to shipment.

4. Shipper must locate a suitable siding for unloading from the rail car prior to shipment. Shipper shall contact NS Centralized Yard Operations at 800-898-4296 to request a track inspection from the local Track Supervisor and permission from the Trainmaster to handle the load. Shipper must also arrange for logistics of unloading at the siding prior to shipment, including site inspection for verification of crane and truck access, DOT permits to move load to final site, execution of a Temporary Siding Lease Agreement for Hi-Wide loads, and providing valid Certificate of Insurance to NS Risk Management.

5. If clearance file is issued, shipper orders a flat car from AccessNS or a heavy-duty flat car. Please allow at least 4 to 6 weeks for heavy-duty flat cars based on car supply availability. Car condition is not guaranteed.

6. Shipper arranges for loading and securement of flat car. Marketing can provide contact information for riggers familiar with the AAR Open Top Loading Rules.

7. 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.

8. Shipper completes the Internet Bill of Lading (IBOL) on AccessNS. Please be sure to indicate that this shipment is dimensional/high and wide on the IBOL. Origin, destination and routing must match pre-approved clearance route. It is imperative that dimensional loads are not billed until clearances are accepted by NS Clearances. Safety is of utmost importance and billing prior to an approved inspection can result in NS crews pulling an improperly secured load. The shipper shall be responsible for ensuring load is accepted prior to billing for movement.

9. With AccessNS, the shipper can trace his/her cars across the network.

10. Car must be unloaded and released back to the railroad within 48 hours of placement to avoid demurrage and detention charges. Additional siding lease payments may apply after initial free days expire. Refer to your specific Temporary Siding Lease Agreement for Hi-Wide loads.