Another form often used is a 10column sheet with the columns headed
0 to 9, and cars are entered according to their last digit. If
automated systems are used, this information is entered into the
system for access by railroad employees to check the progress of
freight cars in which their railroads are interested. The inbound
clerk checks the waybills against the completed track check to make
certain that the numbers on the check agree with those on the
waybills and that there is a car for every bill and a bill for every
car. The check is then marked up according to the groupings as shown
in the typical grouping area back in figure 2.1. Train sheet
information may also be entered into an automated system.
Numerous other reports are often necessary. These include
arrival notices to local consignees, hold notices, reweigh reports
(necessary when bulkloaded cars have lost part of their lading), and
seal reports. All yards stamp each waybill on the back with a
junction stamp which shows the time and date of arrival and the name
of the yard. This makes it possible to check the time interval in
and between various yards. Such notations often start inquiries
resulting in corrective action when cars are being subjected to
unreasonable layovers at any point between origin and destination.
Most yards maintain an inbound and outbound train sheet which shows
the engine number, conductor's name, arrival or departure time, and
the number of loads and empties in each train or drag. A drag is
generally a long, slow freight train; also a draft of cars usually
without a caboose handled by a yard engine on a main track. The
train sheet is usually maintained from 0001 through 2359 hours.
b. Outbound clerical work. When an outbound train has been
called, the clerk assigned the outbound duties computes the gross
tonnage. Forms used for outbound train records may differ slightly
among railroads. Generally, a consist form is prepared which shows
the initials, number, contents, gross weight, point of origin, and
destination of each car. Special handling instructions for hazardous
materials will be listed. Some consists may show the consignor and
the consignee. This information will be electronically transmitted
to the next yard to enable the yardmaster to make plans for switching
the train. The following subparagraphs discuss other reports, forms,
and checks that may be used to insure prompt and efficient car
delivery.
(1) The wheel report is the responsibility of the train
conductor. It shows the car initials and number, type of car,
station number from which the car is moved, and the date. It also
has columns for the station number and the date to be filled in when
the car is delivered to the yard at the end of the conductor's run.
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