A unique identifier of two to four letters assigned by the Association of American Railroads to railroads, leasing companies, and private owners. It is painted on the side of every locomotive and railcar, immediately followed by the equipment number. Marks ending in 'X' indicate private ownership, while 'Z' indicates a trailer and 'U' a container.
I need the reporting mark and number for that bad order tank car on track four.
If the reporting mark ends in X, like GATX or TTX, the car is owned by a private leasing company rather than a railroad.
Also heard as
- initials
Related terms
AAR
The Association of American Railroads, the primary industry trade group and standards organization for North American freight rail.
Rolling stock
The collective term for all wheeled vehicles that operate on a railway.
Bad order
A car or locomotive with a defect that keeps it from running until it is repaired.