Britannica AI Icon

Quick Summary

A flatcar is a type of railroad freight car that lacks permanent raised sides, ends, or a covering. These cars evolved from basic freight car types used since the early 1800s and are utilized for hauling heavy machinery and military equipment. In modern times, flatcars have been adapted to carry large containers, truck trailers, and new automobiles. The term "platform car" is synonymous with flatcar.123

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.
3 Britannica Sources
  1. flatcar
  2. freight car
  3. platform car

Ask Britannica AI about this topic

Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.