UIC Leaflet 471-2: Technical Requirements for International Freight Train Composition

What is UIC Leaflet 471-2?

UIC Leaflet 471-2 is a foundational document titled “Technical requirements for the operation of international freight trains.” Its primary purpose is to ensure Interoperability at the border. When a freight train crosses from one country’s infrastructure to another, it must meet the technical expectations of the receiving Infrastructure Management.

This leaflet defines the “Common Technical Language” for train inspections. It ensures that the wagons, their loading, and the overall train consist are safe to operate at the speeds and gradients of the destination network.

Train Composition and Braking

A core focus of UIC 471-2 is the mechanical and pneumatic integrity of the train. The leaflet mandates:

• Braking Performance: Every wagon must have its Brake Application verified. The leaflet specifies the calculation for the “Brake Weight” (the percentage of the train’s mass that can be effectively braked).
• Train Length and Weight: Standards for the maximum permissible length and trailing load, ensuring the train does not exceed the capacity of station sidings or the structural limits of the Rolling Stock couplers.
• Wagon Sequence: Rules for the placement of specific wagon types (e.g., empty vs. loaded) to prevent derailment during heavy braking or tight curves.

The Technical Handover (Checking)

Under UIC 471-2, the “Technical Handover” is a mandatory safety check performed at border or transition points. The inspector must verify:

• Loading Security: Ensuring that the cargo has not shifted and that Intermodal Loading Units are correctly locked.
• Running Gear: Checking for defects in wheels, axles, and suspension that could lead to an incident at high speeds.
• Labeling: Verifying that the Wagon Labeling correctly reflects the actual contents and technical state of the vehicle.

Integration with TAF TSI

Modern application of UIC 471-2 is heavily digitalized through the TAF TSI. The technical data gathered during the inspection is transmitted via Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) to the next operator in the chain. This allows the receiving network to prepare its dispatching and Infrastructure Management systems before the train arrives, reducing delays at the border.

Comparison: Domestic vs. International Freight Composition (UIC 471-2)