Drag freight

A drag freight is a long, slow, high-tonnage railroad train, often carrying commodities such as coal or ore.

Compared to "fast freight" trains, drag freight trains have a very low power-to-weight ratio, making them somewhat unpredictable on steep grades or hilly routes.

The trains were loose-coupled, had no continuous brakes, and were speed-limited to 25 mph (40 km/h).

The lack of brake power was a potential hazard and, when approaching a downhill gradient, it was necessary to stop the train and "pin down" the handbrakes on some of the wagons before proceeding.

Also, Class 59 locomotives owned by National Power, Foster Yeoman, and other large bulk shippers were used on the heavy freights in the 1990s.