
The maximum speed of freight trains varies by country, track conditions, and cargo type, but generally:
In the United States:
- Most freight trains operate between 45-60 mph (72-97 km/h)
- The maximum authorized speed is typically 70-80 mph (113-129 km/h)
- Some high-priority intermodal trains can run up to 90 mph (145 km/h) on select corridors
In Europe:
- Freight trains commonly operate at 60-75 mph (100-120 km/h)
- Some express freight services reach up to 100 mph (160 km/h)
In China:
- Standard freight trains operate at 50-75 mph (80-120 km/h)
- China's specialized freight high-speed trains can reach 155 mph (250 km/h)
Freight trains are generally slower than passenger trains due to:
- Heavier loads requiring longer braking distances
- Track-sharing priorities favoring passenger service
- Rolling stock designed for capacity rather than speed
- Safety considerations with various cargo types
- Energy efficiency optimization (higher speeds consume disproportionately more fuel)
The fastest freight services are typically those carrying time-sensitive goods like mail, express packages, or perishable items.