Classification yard
A classification yard, in the context of logistics and transportation, is a railroad terminal area where railcars are grouped together to form train units. This process is known as classification, and it allows for more efficient movement of goods through the supply chain. In addition to organizing railcars into trains, a classification yard also determines the route that each train will take. By grouping railcars together based on their destination, a classification yard can minimize the number of switches that need to be made along the way, which reduces delays and increases efficiency.
There are a number of different types of classification yards, each of which is designed for a specific purpose. Classification yards can be found in both small and large terminals, and they play an important role in helping to move goods through the supply chain. Thanks to their ability to efficiently group railcars together, classification yards provide an essential link between transportation modes and help to keep the flow of goods moving.
Some examples of classification yards are :
- Hump yards. A hump yard is a type of classification yard that uses a small hill, or hump, to store and sort railcars. The cars are dispensed from the top of the hump and travel down a slope to their designated track. This type of yard is best suited for small terminals that don’t have the space for a large classification yard.
- Flat yards. A flat yard is a classification yard that is designed for the sorting of freight cars on a level surface. This type of yard is ideal for large terminals where space is not a limiting factor.
- Rail yards. A rail yard is a classification yard that uses railroad tracks to organize railcars. This type of yard is common in large terminals where there is a lot of traffic.
- Marshaling yards. A marshaling yard is a type of classification yard that is used to assemble trains. This type of yard is typically found near the end of a rail line, and it is used to assemble trains that will be used to transport goods to their final destination.
- Intermodal terminals. An intermodal terminal is a classification yard that is used to transfer goods between different transportation modes. This type of terminal is typically found near ports and airports, and it allows for the quick and easy transfer of goods between different transportation modes.
Related Links
Classification Yard – Global Source Logistics, Inc.
Classification yard
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