Work out wagon load capacity instantly with clear inputs, formula shown and shareable results.
Wagon payload is the permitted gross weight — axle load times number of axles — minus the tare. Dividing payload by wagon volume gives the cargo density above which the wagon reaches its weight limit before it fills, the same weight-versus-cube trade as in shipping.
Wagon capacity
gross = axle load x axles; payload = gross - tare; limiting density = payload / volume
Rail results are planning estimates only. Verify against the infrastructure manager's rule book, approved braking curves and applicable railway safety regulations.
Commonly 22.5 t on European main lines, 25 t on heavy-haul routes and 32.5 t or more on dedicated ore railways. Route classification governs.
Every tonne of tare is a tonne of payload lost. Lightweight wagon design directly improves the economics of the train.