What are NEM couplings?

NEM couplings refer to a standard type of coupling mechanism used in model railways, developed by the Normen Europäischer Modellbahnen (NEM), which is a European organization that sets standards for model railways.

NEM couplings are designed to allow locomotives and rolling stock to be connected and disconnected easily, without the need for tools or sophisticated uncouplers. They consist of a small hook-shaped coupling on one vehicle that is inserted into a corresponding slot on the other coach or wagon and then secured in place with a small spring or clip.

NEM couplings are widely used in model railways across Europe, and they are available in a range of different sizes and types to suit different scales and gauges of model railways. They offer a number of benefits, including ease of use, reliability, and compatibility with a wide range of locomotives and rolling stock.

Most rolling stock these days is advertised as having a NEM pocket. What this means is that the coupling fitted by the manufacturer can be easily removed and swapped with another NEM-compatible coupling.

There are a variety of aftermarket couplings available for model railway rolling stock and it's very much down to personal preference as to which are best to use. Some modellers prefer Hornby couplings, some Peco etc. So NEM pockets make it easy to swap factory-fitted couplings for your preferred type.

There are also a number of sprung couplings on the market. These are particularly useful for close-coupling coaches.

NEM pockets also open up the possibility of running European rolling stock from manufacturers such as Piko & Marklin on a OO scale layout. Whilst there is a slight difference in scale, which will matter greatly to some, it's only a matter of removing the factory-fitted European coupling and replacing it with a Hornby style Hook & Loop coupling and the rolling stock is ready to use on your layout.