Transportation Operations LINCS Practice Exam

What type of cargo is typically transported in a boxcar?

1. Liquid bulk commodities

2. Packaged freight and bulk commodities

3. Hazardous materials

4. Automobiles and large equipment

The correct answer is: Packaged freight and bulk commodities

Boxcars are designed to transport a variety of freight, with a primary focus on packaged freight and bulk commodities. The enclosed nature of boxcars provides protection from the elements, making them suitable for items that require some level of security during transport. This includes goods that are not too heavy and can be easily loaded and unloaded, such as packaged consumer products or box-sized items. This makes boxcars a versatile choice for transporting bulk commodities that are not liquid, as well as for individual packaged items that might be sensitive to weather or damage. The design of boxcars facilitates efficient loading and unloading processes, providing flexibility for various types of cargo that need to be shipped by rail. Other options, such as liquid bulk commodities, hazardous materials, or automobiles and large equipment, typically require different types of specialized rail cars designed specifically for those cargoes. Liquid chemicals might be transported in tank cars, while hazardous materials would often need to comply with strict regulations and might also require designated cars. Similarly, automobiles and large equipment are generally more effectively transported in flatcars or auto-rack cars that can accommodate their size and shape. Therefore, the choice of cargo that boxcars typically transport is well-aligned with their design and operational effectiveness.