KEEP EXPLORING
Start with the commodity
Ask what arrives, what leaves and which car type handles it. A grain elevator, team track, warehouse, fuel dealer and paper mill each create different traffic.
Car spots
One industry can have multiple spots: unloading door, tank rack, loading shed or warehouse. Labeling spots can create more operating interest without adding more track.
Runarounds and facing-point moves
If a local freight approaches an industry from the wrong direction, it may need a runaround or another operational solution. Use these constraints intentionally, not accidentally.
Switching lead
Protect the main line when possible. A dedicated lead allows yard or industry switching without occupying the railroad’s main route for every move.