Hotshots are usually premium intermodal or automotive trains with guaranteed delivery times, carrying parcels, groceries or new vehicles. They get the main at meets, pass slower trains and leave terminals on time even when other trains wait. Crews call them by their symbol or simply the hot train, and getting stuck in the hole for one is a routine part of life on a manifest or coal train.
Clear the main at Elm, there's a hotshot ten miles back running track speed with parcel trailers.
Also heard as
- hot train
- priority train
Related terms
Pig train
An intermodal train hauling highway trailers on flatcars.
Stack train
An intermodal train carrying shipping containers stacked two high in well cars.
In the hole
In the siding, waiting for another train to pass on the main line.
Highball
A signal or radio call meaning proceed at full speed, and the verb for leaving or running fast.