RAILROAD GLOSSARY Freight Rail Handbook Shipper (AKA Consignor) The person or firm by whom articles are shipped. Side Track A track adjacent to the main track for purposes other than for meeting and passing trains. Siding An auxiliary track for meeting or passing trains. It is designated in special instructions. Signaled Siding A siding equipped with block signals that govern train movements on the siding. Signaled Track A track equipped with block or interlocking signals that govern train movements. Single Track A main track upon which trains are operated in both directions. Spiked Switch A switch with its points held in a fixed position by a track spike to prevent the use of a track or throwing of the switch. Spring Switch A switch equipped to restore the switch points to normal position after having been trailed through. Spur Track (Commonly Called Spur) A stub track that diverges from main or other tracks which provides access to industrial or commercial areas. It usually dead ends within an industry area. STCC (Standard Transportation Commodity Code) Seven-digit code designed to classify all commodities. Storage Track or Yard A place to store or hold rail cars. Straight Bill of Lading A non-negotiable document. Surrender of the original is not ordinarily required upon delivery of property, except when necessary to identify the consignee. Stretch An order to the engineer to pull on a cut of cars to see if they are coupled. Stub Track A form of side track connected to a running track at one end only and usually protected at the end by some form of bumping post or other solid obstruction. Subdivision A portion of a division/service lane/business unit designated by timetable. Switch Noun: A device consisting of two movable rails, necessary connections, and operating parts designed to turn a locomotive or car from the track on which it is running to another track. OR Verb: To move cars from one place to another, usually within a defined territory. Switch Engine A locomotive used for switching cars in yards and terminals. Switch Heater A device used for melting snow or ice in and around movable parts of switches. Switch Lock A fastener, usually a spring padlock, used to secure the switch or derail stand in place.