Modelers refer to bulkhead flat cars with a supporting center beam connecting the ends as a 'Centerbeam' flat car. The words 'Center Beam' are actually trademarked by Thrall who was an early pioneer in developing these widely used cars. Today, Thrall along with Gunderson, National Steel Car, Trinity and others make different variations of these earlier designs, each company's design a little different adding variety. These cars are used to carry lumber, trusses and other building materials, sometimes wrapped and sometimes exposed to the elements.

The first 73' 'Center Beams' hit the rails in 1986. Both 'Truss' and 'Opera Window' designs have been used to support these modern freight cars. All of the Red Caboose Center Beams on this page are of the popular 'Opera Window' design. Click on the Red Caboose logo at the bottom of this page for complete listing of 'Truss' 73' Centerbeams. This is an excellent model which comes fully assembled and factory equipped with Micro-Trains® trucks/couplers. 12 unique road #'s for each road name.