We bought our Grandson a basic Thomas wooden train set for his second birthday Aug 2008. That only contained only one goods wagon, and Thomas usually pulls Annie and Claribel, so these are essential coaches.
The Wooden Thomas series are relatively expensive, but seem solid. No breakages so far.
Fortunately all wooden train sets (Brio, Thomas, Big Jigs etc.) seem to be compatible and interchangeable - so unless the particular item you want is only available from one maker (like these carriages). It is possible, to shop around for the cheaper track etc.