Railcar looting

[BaltACD]

SFbrkmn

When the "brains" instruct an intermodal train to tie down and be there for days (or weeks), that invites "vistors". Not an intellegent choice to park these type of trains in isolated spots as it only invites trouble.

Earlier this yr, I had a Q-SBDCHI eastbound during the 0100 hr. Before departing, the car dept had to perform an inspection of a trailer on a spine car towards the rear of the train. Turned out the door was opened and several tv sets missing. Door was closed up and we then deaprted. On the work order train list, the info showed FAK--freight of all kinds and not what actually was on board. Also interesting in those loads are generally placed in a container on the bottom so the doors cannot be opened in leiu of a semi trailer that can easily be breeched. Someone knew where the goodies were at 

It generally isn't 'the brains' that cause intermodal trains to be held.  Generally - there is no place for the train to operate past the location where it gets held for what ever the reason.

If there were intermodal trains operating on the MRL line  that had the Yellowstone River bridge wash out - It will take some period of time for 'the brains' to diagnose the reality of the Yellowstone Rivers situation and to map out contingencies for both physical movement and crew availability on whatever detour route(s) may be selected.  The height of intermodal traffic make many lines 'OFF LIMITS' for rerouting.

While most intermodal is transported as FAK 'freight all kinds'.  If the shipper and/or consignee is identified on any paperwork - the contents may be deduced.