About Railroading 101
What This Site Is
Railroading 101 is a reference resource for North American freight railroad terminology, equipment parts, industry organizations, and publications. Entries are drawn from field manuals, AAR standards, and industry practice, and are intended for people learning the trade, researchers, and professionals who need a quick, reliable lookup.
The dictionary covers terminology used by Class I, regional, and short-line railroads operating under Association of American Railroads (AAR) interchange rules. Where terminology differs by region or era, those distinctions are noted within entries.
Editorial Standards
Definitions are sourced from published industry references including AAR field manuals, Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) guidance, and established trade references. Where possible, entries are cross-checked against primary sources; users requiring authoritative definitions for regulatory or interchange purposes should consult official publications directly.
This site does not represent any railroad company, industry association, or regulatory body. It is an independent reference. If you identify an inaccuracy or a term that is missing, see the contact section below.
Connection to AAR Field-Manual Standards
A significant portion of the terminology and part-reference entries on this site aligns with AAR field-manual definitions. The AAR publishes interchange rules and equipment standards that govern freight car operation across North American railroads; many of the part names and procedural terms in this dictionary originate from or are consistent with those standards.
Where an entry corresponds directly to an AAR-defined term, that connection is noted in the entry text. Users requiring authoritative, legally operative definitions for interchange purposes should consult the AAR's official publications directly.
Content Review
Last content review: . Entries are updated on a rolling basis as standards change or new terminology enters common use.
Contact and Feedback
Corrections, suggested additions, and other feedback are welcome. Use the search bar to find a related entry and note the term you want to discuss, then reach out via the contact address listed in the site footer.
Submissions are reviewed manually. Response time varies.