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When shipping a car across the country, your mind probably goes straight to truck transport, where vehicles are loaded on an open or enclosed car carrier. What many vehicle owners don’t know is that there are other auto transport methods, including train shipping.
In this blog we’ll explain the details of shipping by train, the pros and cons, and how much it costs.
Shipping a car by train: pros and cons
It may seem like a strange alternative to transporting your vehicle on a truck, but shipping by train comes with a number of advantages, including:
- Cost. Your total spend will include the charge for transporting the car, plus a ticket for yourself (if applicable). With truck transport, you’re charged a certain amount per mile traveled, which may add up when moving across the country.
- Eco-friendliness. Trains have lower carbon emissions than cars, airplanes, and other forms of transportation.
- Convenience. If you use Amtrak, the only consumer line to offer car shipping, you can ride to your destination along with your vehicle.
Depending on your situation, there may also be some drawbacks to shipping your vehicle by train. Consider the following:
Size limitations. Vehicles shipping by train are loaded into an enclosed shipping container. While this method provides greater protection from weather and road debris, it also puts a limitation on the height and length of the vehicles inside. Standard cars, trucks, and SUVs will fit but heavily modified or oversized vehicles may not.
Limited service. There is only one auto transport train currently offering services for individuals: the Amtrak Auto Train. This train only follows one route from Virginia to Florida. If you’re not able to secure a spot on this train that meets your timeline, or if your destination is somewhere else in the country, this option will likely not meet your needs.
How shipping a car by train works
Shipping your car by train is rather straightforward. First you’ll drive your vehicle to the train station where it will be loaded, then the vehicle will be transported, and you will pick it up once it’s unloaded at its destination.
Prior to bringing your vehicle to be loaded onto the train, there are a few things you should do in preparation:
- Remove valuables: Don’t leave important documents, medications, or other valuable items in the vehicle.
- Check tires and battery: You’ll still have to drive your car from the train station to your final destination, so make sure it’s in working order.
- Wash, clean, and declutter: A clean car makes for an easier inspection before and after transport. If your car has any attachments like bike racks or antennas, remove them before transport.
- Lock the doors: Reduce the risk of theft by keeping the doors locked while on the train.
See the guides below for more tips on preparing your car for shipping:
7 Steps to Prepare Your Car for Shipping: A Simple Roadmap
Car Shipping Safety and Security Tips
Cost to ship a car by train
Generally, vehicle shipping by train can be more affordable than other methods. The total shipping cost will be based on several factors:
- If the rail service’s route works for your needs
- The distance you need to transport your vehicle
- Starting location and destination
- The size and weight of your vehicle
While commercial users can ship cars by rail, the only option for individuals shipping their personal vehicle is the Amtrak Auto Train. The Auto Train departs daily and follows one direct route from Lorton, VA near Washington D.C. to Sanford, FL near Orlando. The trip covers 900 miles and takes about 17 hours. Fares start at $95 for a one-way passenger ticket, plus the cost to transport your vehicle. If your starting location and destination align with the Auto Train route, then this could be a very affordable and efficient auto transport method.
| Passenger ticket | Bedroom car | Standard vehicle | Extended vehicle | Motorcycle | Priority vehicle offloading |
| $95 and up | $439 and up | Starting at $225 | Starting at $255 | Starting at $155 | $95 each |
Prices are estimates based on Amtrak.com 2025 and subject to change.
Simple auto shipping, anywhere in the country
In certain circumstances, vehicle transport by train can be a convenient and efficient way to get your automobile across the country. However, there are other options that could be better suited to your location, vehicle type, and desired shipping dates.
Montway Auto Transport is one of the nation’s top-rated car shipping companies, with carriers in all 50 states. Having delivered over one million vehicles, we’ve earned a 4.7 star average rating from over 100,000 customer reviews. We make car shipping simple, safe, and professional.
New to auto transport? Learn the basics:
How much does it cost to ship a car?
How long does it take to ship my car?
Montway’s dedicated customer service representatives are available 365 days a year. For answers to questions or assistance with booking, dial (888) 666-8929 or start a live chat.
