UMLER was an acronym for Universal Machine Language Equipment Register. With the re-write of the system which went live in August of 2009, the acronym was retired, but the system is still known as Umler.
Cars are registered in the system to facilitate car movement and billing by the Railroads. Reporting Mark also denotes ownership per AAR Field Manual Rule B Paragraph 12. No longer do Railroads have enough people to track the car by hand, they are using technology to assist them. The AAR Field Manual, Rule 90 Section A Paragraph 2 clearly prohibits cars in interchange "that are not properly registered in the Umler file, as required by the AAR Specification Manual".
Proper data on your forms and in Umler will enable your equipment to move more easily and with less hassle for you and the Railroads. Improper data in the file can result in your equipment not moving, delays in movement, higher costs, or the Railroad refusing to move it. Accurate data is more important than ever!
RPCA made the decision to assist their members by having a reporting mark and shop code assigned by Railinc. To do this a separate company was established, the Railroad Passenger Car Numbering Bureau. This way our members can upload their equipment to the Umler system thereby facilitating equipment movement. RPCNB member shops have a method to upload the inspection performed by member CAT's (Certified Air Technicians).
Visit the Forms page for our RPCNB agreement for Shop Code and RPCNB Contract for member and the equipment data sheet and instructions on what is necessary to upload your equipment! Remember, As this is a member service for RPCA members, your membership will need to be verified