When a locomotive is described as being "dead attached", this means that it is not online or contributing to the haulage of the train. This is commonly used to transfer locomotives from one depot to another, and is done to avoid wasting fuel when the additional horsepower is now required. Inoperable locomotives are typically transferred in this manner to/from repairs.

When used in the context of a locomotive or other item of rolling stock, this is the stage prior to disposal. The operator marks the item as condemned and writes them off prior to sale. In most cases, this is the stage prior to disposal for scrap.

Extra boards added to the side of the coal carrying area, used to increase the coal capacity of a locomotive.

This term is used to describe locomotives or rolling stock that have been set aside and restored (typically by volunteers) to represent a previous era of life. Some locomotives are realistically not able to be returned to an operational condition, and they will be cosmetically restored and placed in a museum, or in a park. The locomotive or rolling stock in question is unable to operate on a train, although it is usually on display for the general public to enjoy.

A term used to describe a locomotive or item of rolling stock that has been restored and returned to service by a heritage group (for example, the NSW Rail Transport Museum). The locomotive or rolling stock has often been repainted into a heritage livery, and is used (in most cases exclusively) on heritage trains for the enjoyment of the public.

A term used when a locomotive previously in commercial service or storage has been returned to operational condition, usually in an original or otherwise heritage colour scheme. Many commercial locomotives that enter preservation require some degree of work to bring the locomotive up to a reliable operational condition. Locomotives that have been run down or in long term storage, perhaps with missing parts typically require a lot of work to be returned to service.

This term is also used when stored/retired locomotives have been preserved and made into static displays, typically with a fresh coat of paint and an overall clean.

A term used when a locomotive is returned to service following a period of time in storage.

Term used to describe a locomotive that is set aside for a period of time. In most cases of long term storage, exhaust stacks are covered/capped, batteries are removed and all fluids drained. For short term storage, locomotives are often parked "as is" and remain in-situ for weeks or months. In many cases, long term storage is a precursor to withdrawal and scrapping.

Automatic Monitoring Machine.

Used on trams in melbourne for tracking.

A section of track used for storing trains. Often found in groups.