US Rail Freight Brokers

Rail Freight Brokers

Our rail freight brokerage services offer free quotes for both full railcar loads and less-than-carload shipments, connecting shippers with an extensive network of trusted rail carriers across the United States. Our rail freight brokers manage the logistics of each shipment, providing competitive rates and compliance with rail transport regulations. Our experienced team oversees every aspect of the rail shipping process, providing proactive, hands-on management. We handle a wide range of cargo types, from intermodal containers to specialized railcars. Contact us today for a free rail freight quote!

Rail freight brokerage services
Full railcar loads and less than carload shipment freight broker

Our Rail Freight Brokers Offer Free Full Railcar & Less-Than-Carload Quotes

Our rail freight carriers excel in cost-efficiency and flexibility for long-distance transport. It's the top choice for businesses looking to optimize their shipping expenses over land. Our rail freight services support both full railcar and less-than-carload (LTL) shipping. Rail freight prevents unnecessary spending on excess capacity while ensuring your goods reach their destination securely. Our freight brokers offer free quotes for both full railcar and LTL services, helping your business maintain cost-effective operations, respond to varying shipment sizes and enable efficient inventory management.

Tax Air Nationwide Transports by Rail:

  • Bulk commodities (grain, coal, minerals)
  • Automotive vehicles and parts
  • Construction materials
  • Chemical products
  • Intermodal containers
  • Machinery and equipment
  • Agricultural products
  • Forest products (lumber, paper)
  • Metals and ores
  • Consumer goods (in intermodal containers)

Rail Freight Options for LTL & Full Railcar Shipments

Our rail freight services accommodate both Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) and full railcar shipments. We offer a variety of railcar types to suit different cargo needs:

  • Boxcars: For general freight, typically 50-60 feet long
  • Flatcars: For oversized or odd-shaped items, ranging from 60-89 feet
  • Hopper cars: For bulk commodities, available in covered or open-top variants
  • Tank cars: For liquid or gaseous materials
  • Intermodal containers: For transfer between truck and rail, typically 20-53 feet

Proper railcar selection optimizes shipping costs and logistics operations for rail freight. We work with you to identify the optimal railcar type for your cargo. Our expertise in rail logistics helps balance load size with frequency to meet your specific needs.

Benefits of Sending Freight By Rail

  1. Cost-Efficiency: Rail shipments are significantly more economical than truck or air transport for large volumes over long distances. Trains can transport massive amounts of cargo, reducing the cost per unit shipped.
  2. Versatility: Rail freight offers flexibility in shipment sizes, accommodating both full railcar loads and less-than-carload (LTL) options. Various railcar types can handle different cargo needs.
  3. Extensive Network: Rail networks span across the country, connecting major cities and industrial centers. We currently ship to numerous destinations throughout the United States.
  4. Environmental Impact: Rail freight has a lower carbon footprint per ton-mile compared to truck or air freight, making it a more sustainable option for large shipments.
  5. Reliability: Rail transport is less affected by traffic congestion or weather conditions than road transport, offering more consistent transit times for long-distance freight.
Benefits of freight by rail

Rail Freight Costs

Calculating Rail Freight Costs

Are you looking for a rail freight rate calculator? Shipping prices for rail freight are primarily based on the type of railcar, shipment weight and distance traveled. Costs are often calculated per hundredweight (cwt) or mile, depending on the carrier and shipment type. Oversized or overweight loads may incur additional fees. Some expenses are fixed, while others vary based on factors like distance and commodity type.

Additional Rail Freight Fees to Factor

  • Terminal charges cover the costs of loading, unloading and handling at rail yards.
  • Intermodal transfer costs involve moving cargo between rail and truck transportation.
  • Fuel surcharges fluctuate with current fuel prices for locomotives.
  • Switching fees pay for moving rail cars between different tracks or carriers.
  • Customs clearance fees cover the cost of processing documentation and inspections for cross-border shipments.
  • Cargo insurance protects against loss or damage during transit.
  • Demurrage charges may apply for extended use of railcars beyond allotted free time.
  • Accessorial charges include services like special equipment for loading/unloading or temperature-controlled railcars.

Get the Lowest Rail Freight Rates On the Market

Rail freight costs to consider

Rail Freight FAQ

  • Rail freight pricing depends on factors including shipment size, weight, travel distance, route specifics, market demand, fuel costs and any additional services required. For Less than Carload (LCL) shipments, charges are typically based on volume or weight, whichever is greater.

  • Rail shipment size and weight limits vary depending on the type of railcar used. Common rail cars include boxcars, flatcars and hopper cars. Weight limits generally range from 50 to 100 tons per railcar, with dimensions varying based on the car type.

  • Rail freight restrictions prohibit or limit hazardous materials, illegal goods and certain perishables. Shippers must adhere to national safety regulations and railway company policies for compliant transportation.

  • While not mandatory, insuring goods for rail freight is strongly advised due to potential risks like loss, damage or theft during the transportation period.

  • Shipping oversized or heavy cargo by rail freight is possible using specialized railcars such as flatcars or well cars. Work with experienced carriers or forwarders for proper planning and transportation.

Tax Air Nationwide provides 3PL logistics services across the US out of our Milwaukee headquarters. We have the capabilities to transport loads out of our freight company’s hubs in Neenah, Madison, Chicago, Des Moines, Eagan, and Minneapolis and major areas like Seattle, Miami, Los Angeles, New York, Houston, Philadelphia and Mexico.
Coast to Coast