Railroad Protocol
Industrial Rail Siding Storage & Demurrage Agreement Cheatsheet
📐 Track Standards & FRA Inspection
- ✅ FRA Track Class: Siding must meet minimum FRA Class 1 (10 MPH freight) or Class 2 (25 MPH) standards.
- ✅ Tie & Gauge Tolerances: Cross-tie integrity inspected semi-annually; track gauge maintained within 56.5 to 57.5 inches.
- ✅ Derail Device: Split-rail or hinged derail installed at interchange clearance point to protect Class I mainline.
⏱️ Demurrage Free Time & Billing Rules
- ✅ Standard Free Time: 24 to 48 hours free time commencing at 07:00 following constructive placement notice.
- ✅ Daily Demurrage Rate: $75 - $150 per car per day billed on straight calendar days after free time expires.
- ✅ Constructive Placement: Digital notification timestamp serves as legal trigger when siding track is blocked.
⚠️ Hazardous Material (Hazmat) Protocols
- ⚠️ DOT Placarding: All tank cars must display valid 4-digit UN hazmat placards and emergency response paperwork.
- ⚠️ Security & Containment: Hazmat cars require 24/7 solar illuminated perimeter, CCTV monitoring, and secondary containment.
- ✅ Hazmat Surcharge: Minimum 20% - 35% premium added to standard daily track storage rates.
🔀 Interchange & Switching Operations
- 💎 Switch Move Charge: $250 - $450 per car for intra-plant switching or Class I mainline turnout delivery.
- 💎 Handbrake & Chock Verification: Every parked car must have mechanical handbrakes set + wheel chocks secured.
- 💎 Insurance Requirement: Commercial rail operator liability insurance minimum $5,000,000 per occurrence.