Many people in the United States don’t realize how important our rail network systems are to the supply chain. The U.S. freight rail network is nearly an $80 billion industry with over 100,00 route miles and is responsible for importing several of our everyday items, construction supplies, food, and fuel.
This shipping method is environmentally responsible, safe, and economically progressive. Keep reading to learn the common goods shipped by freight trains.
Are Trains Still Used for Shipping?
As technology progresses, it’s hard to imagine our country still utilizing the old railing system. However, freight by rail is very popular and plays a major role in our supply chain and economy. You can ship products by train anywhere in North America. Major railroad systems operate in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Railroads also access international ports, giving you connections beyond the borders!
Common Goods Shipped by Trains
Are you wondering about the most common goods shipped via freight train? You can ship just about anything except for a few prohibited items (passengers, pets, other living things, and personal property). You can transport raw materials like sand to packaged food items.
Some common goods shipped by freight trains include the following:
- Building and construction materials
- Household items
- Clothing
- Electronics
- Produce
- Seafood
- Chocolate
- Canned goods
- Beer
- Wine
- Corn syrup
- Biodiesel
- Machinery
- Military equipment
- Vehicles
Trains can ship just about everything, including recycled materials and auto parts!
Benefits of Freight Shipping
Trains are very beneficial to the supply chain and can ship many items, and there are other benefits to shipping by a freight train. When you ship by train, you’re lowering your transportation costs, achieving greater efficiency than truck hauling, and expanding your market reach. Rails are sustainable and economical ways to ship large items without compromising multiple factors of your operation.
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