The container train is a set of 7 bogie trucks carrying ISO containers, hauled by a main line goods locomotive. Its "home" is Portsmouth container depot, and will follow a similar cycle to the oil train: move to a hidden siding; run round the layout several times; then return. The operator will need to move the locomotive to the other end in the usual way. The local control panel is a key part of this process.
- Press "Reserve" on Portsmouth Yard so it reports "manual". This will prevent Traincontroller driving trains into the track you are using.
- Use a throttle to select the locomotive that has just arrived.
- Check the containers have uncoupled. If not, shunt back over the magnets then pull forward again.
- Use the control panel to set the points to allow the loco to move to the track end.
- Drive the loco to the track end.
- Use the control panel to select a track running around the containers.
- Start moving the loco past the containers.
- Use the control panel to select a path onto the exit road.
- Drive the loco onto the exit road & stop.
- Use the control panel to select a path to the front of the contained wagons.
- Drive the loco onto the container wagons, couple and stop.
- Select the loco direction to be ready to leave the depot.
- Deselect the loco from the throttle.
- Release the container yard back to automatic control by pressing "Reserve" again.
- If needed, press the button on the track holding the container train to make sure "allow entry/exit" is lit.
- Initiate a new schedule by pressing "container" in the "Request Schedules" section.