Transporting coal by rail has been around as long as the railroads. Two major types of cars emerged for hauling coal; hoppers and gondolas. The earlier cars were made of wood, then steel, and later aluminum. The lighter weight of aluminum allows greater loading and higher cubic foot capacities ideal for bulk minerals transport. By the 1980s, many coal hoppers and coal gondolas were using aluminum bodies in their construction.

The Trainman aluminum coal gondola model represents a typical Association of American Railroads car type code J311, a gondola car with a load limit greater than 185,000 lbs, depressed bottom, and 36' to 48' interior length. Typical of these cars is the rotary coupler usually signified by a contrasting colour on one or, both ends. The Trainman model has thirteen side stakes and a double tub bottom. Gross Rail Loading is rated at 286,000 lbs.