The multi-level auto carrier — commonly called an autorack — is the enclosed multi-deck rail car used for finished vehicle distribution. It consists of a standard flatcar or well flatcar underframe surmounted by a bolted or welded steel rack structure with two or three decks, full-height corrugated steel side panels, and hinged end doors. Modern enclosed designs replaced open racks following extensive vandalism losses in the 1970s and 1980s. Vehicle loading is via ramps at end doors, and cars travel in dedicated unit trains between assembly plants and vehicle distribution centers.
Three decks for compact cars and smaller vehicles with a maximum vehicle height of approximately 65 inches; highest vehicle capacity per car.
Two decks for tall vehicles including full-size pickups, SUVs, and vans with vehicle heights up to approximately 84 inches.
Adjustable middle deck that can be raised or lowered to switch between bi-level and tri-level configuration based on vehicle height mix.
Multi-level auto carriers are the exclusive rail equipment for new vehicle distribution, moving cars directly from assembly plant loading docks to regional vehicle distribution centers for dealer delivery, with unit trains of 30-50 cars operating on dedicated auto-train schedules.