Siding (rail)

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.