How do train schedules account for the lengths of trains? Suppose a freight train has a 8:15 arrival time at a station, but the 8:00 train has 400 cars — how is that managed?

Question

How do train schedules account for the lengths of trains? Suppose a freight train has a 8:15 arrival time at a station, but the 8:00 train has 400 cars — how is that managed?

In: 3

Answer 1

Logistically, is just about ensuring the track is clear. So when scheduling, you ensure enough time for the preceding train to leave the station before the next one arrives. If that first train is 10 cars, it only needs a couple of minutes. If it is 400 cars, it may need 15 minutes.