This is a section of track parallel to a through line and connected to it at both ends by switches (U.S.) (points in international usage).
[13][14] Earliest rail service to an area often provided a team track on railroad-owned property adjacent to the railroad agent's train station.
[15] As rail traffic became more established, large-volume shippers extended privately owned spur tracks into mines, factories, and warehouses.
Throughout the mid to latter portion of the 20th century, improved highway systems and abandonment of low-volume rail lines made full-distance truck shipments more practical in North America and avoided delays and damage associated with freight handling during transfer operations.
[16] However, as a result of higher fuel costs, greater traffic jams on Interstate Highways, and the growing movement towards sustainable development, there has been recent upward trend towards moving long-distance freight traffic off highways and onto rail lines.
This has resulted in local communities and rail lines seeking construction of new team track and intermodal facilities.
[17][18] Some railroads publish detailed specifications for the design and construction of many elements of team tracks.