When radios are used for shoving movements, direction and distance must be specified. If additional instructions are not received, where must the movement stop?

• A. At the next mile marker
• B. Immediately after the last car
• C. At the end of the yard
• D. Within one half the distance last specified

Answer: (D)

When shoving movements are controlled by radio, the crew must have a defined distance to move. If no new instructions are received, you must stop within one-half of the distance that was last specified. This creates a safety buffer so you don’t overshoot the intended point and you have time to obtain further directions. For example, if the last directive was to shove for 800 feet, you should stop within 400 feet of where you began or of the last point referenced. Stopping at fixed landmarks like mile markers or yard ends isn’t tied to the last command and could place you in an unsafe position if the radio instruction is incomplete or delayed. The half-distance rule ensures you remain under control until you receive additional instructions.