Abstract: The invention provides an apparatus for safely transporting various hazardous materials, including spent nuclear fuel. The invention includes a cask cradle that is configured to securely receive a cask for containment of hazardous materials, such as spent nuclear fuel. The cask cradle in accordance with the invention includes a front cradle section load bearing brace, a rear cradle section having a first non-loading bearing brace and a second non-loading brace, first and second horizontal support members connecting the front cradle section to the rear cradle section and trunnions that lock into and retain the cask. The invention also provides a railcar having a depressed flatbed region for receiving and securely retaining the cask cradle.