Purpose: In view of the intensification of freight transportation, there is an increasing imperative for enhanced accuracy in the forecasting of potential movement trajectories. Concurrently, a lack of a unified approach to the determination of the braking forces in a freight train during brake release persists. This results in a substantial decline in the precision of calculations in this mode of operation. The prevailing regulatory framework does not permit the prolonged utilisation of traction mode after braking and releasing. Methods: The paper presents a statistical analysis of the autonomous device records of pneumatic and dynamic processes in a freight train developed by JSC VNIIZHT, as well as a model experiment to determine the release parameters. Results: A methodology has been developed to calculate the braking force changes during the release for freight trains of various lengths and after various service braking stages. The statistical significance of the obtained results has been mathematically proven. Practical significance: The results obtained will make it possible to significantly improve the accuracy of predicting the train’s trajectory and increase the ability to control the train in traction modes. This will contribute to the design of enhanced automatic train operation systems, increase travel speeds and reduce inter-train intervals.