Most rail cars can have a gross weight (the total weight of the load, including the weight of the rail car itself) of up to 286,000 pounds. Heavy axle rail cars can have a gross weight of up to 315,000 pounds. By comparison, the federal gross vehicle weight limit for trucks traveling on the interstate is 80,000 pounds.

In 2026, weight limits for trains are split into two categories: Axle Load for the tracks and Luggage Allowance for passengers. For infrastructure, the global standard for heavy-haul freight is typically 25 to 32.5 tonnes per axle, allowing massive cargo trains to weigh over 20,000 tonnes in total. For passengers, the "weight limit" refers to personal baggage. On major systems like Indian Railways, the free allowance varies by class: AC First Class allows 70 kg, while Sleeper Class allows 40 kg. Exceeding these limits in 2026 often results in "airline-style" excess baggage fees. If a passenger's luggage exceeds the "maximum permissible" limit (e.g., 150 kg for First Class), it must be moved to the brake van. These rules ensure that passenger coaches remain within their structural center of gravity and that walkways remain clear for safety and rapid evacuation.