Auto Transport By Train 2026

Have you ever wondered how auto transport by rail works — and if you can still ship your car by train in 2026? Get expert insights now!

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Shipping your car by train can be a logistical puzzle. You’re juggling options, weighing costs, and considering convenience. Auto transport by train, also known as shipping by rail, might seem like a romantic and eco-friendly solution. But in 2026, is it truly a practical way to ship your car by train?

In this article, we’ll discuss the pros and cons of shipping a car by train, including cost of shipping a car by train, convenience, and flexibility. We’ll also compare auto transport by train to shipping a car by truck. While Amtrak is the only company that currently ship car by train, Compare The Carrier can help you compare rates and find the best option for your needs when you are considering Amtrak car shipping.

But don’t take our word for it; this article is the quick preview you need if you’re contemplating auto transport by train in 2026.

How does auto transport by train work?

The company that is offering shipping cars by train

Compare vehicle shipping companies

Train car transport rates

So what should I choose? Ship a car by train or by car hauler?

Preparing a car for the shipping by rail & The papers you need to check

Conclusion

FAQ

How Does Auto Transport By Train Work?

It’s important to understand that auto transport by train in 2026 operates under significant limitations. While the idea of train transport offers certain appeals, the reality is more constrained.

The Reality of Train Transport Today:

The primary (and almost exclusively available) option for auto transport by train is Amtrak’s Auto Train service. This service operates on one route: between Lorton, Virginia (near Washington D.C.) and Sanford, Florida (near Orlando). This severely restricts its usefulness for the vast majority of people.

Here’s a breakdown of how the process works (on the available route) and its inherent limitations:

Limited Route & Terminal-to-Terminal Service: Amtrak only provides transport between the Lorton, VA and Sanford, FL terminals. You are fully responsible for getting your vehicle to the Lorton terminal and picking it up in Sanford. This adds significant time, cost, and logistical complexity, often negating any perceived savings compared to door-to-door trucking services. If your origin or destination is outside these areas, train transport is simply not an option.

Booking & Vehicle Preparation: You’ll need to contact Amtrak directly to reserve space for your vehicle. Their website is the best place to start. You must then prepare your car according to Amtrak’s specific guidelines, which often include removing personal belongings, ensuring the battery is in good condition, and checking tire pressure.

Vehicle Size Restrictions & Enclosed Carriers: Train car carriers have size limitations. Larger vehicles, trucks, or SUVs may not be accommodated. Check Amtrak’s website for specific dimensions and restrictions. Amtrak Auto Train uses only enclosed carriers for vehicles, so there’s no option for open car transport by train.

Transport & Cost: Your car will be transported by train between the terminals. While train transport might seem cheaper at first glance, the added costs of terminal transfers, fuel to get to/from the terminals, and potential overnight stays can make it comparable to, or even more expensive than, door-to-door trucking. Get a direct quote from Amtrak and compare it to quotes from reputable car shipping companies for door-to-door service to make an informed decision.

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Company That Is Offering Shipping Cars By Train

If you want to ship your car by train, Amtrak is your only choice.

Amtrak Train

Amtrak is a nationwide auto-train transport service for you and your vehicle, whether SUV, jet-ski, motorcycle, or van. They are really experts in their field, as their company focuses solely on this kind of transportation. But you can only ship a vehicle by train through a single route from Washington DC to Florida, Sanford. Amtrak promises comfort, enclosed carriers, and free WiFi.

Using this shipping method to move, you can leverage lower prices and fill your car with things rather than use a moving truck.

maxresdefault2 Auto Transport By Train 2026 4

Train Car Transport Rates

Auto transport by train may not be the cheapest way to ship a car cross-country, but it is still one of the cost-effective ones that offers convenience. The train car transport rates might range from $500 to $900 but may vary depending on the type of car.

Room prices on board a train depend on the time of the year you’re shipping, and how far in advance you made bookings. A coach seat might cost you around $100 or lower, while high-end private rooms can cost around $1,200.

Vehicle Size	Pickup Locations	Drop-off Locations	Vehicle Cost	Average Cost
Standard	Washington DC	Sanford, FL	$515–570	$640–2110
Extended	Washington DC	Sanford, FL	$595–655	$715–2200
Motorcycle	Washington DC	Sanford, FL	$320	$445–1860

* Average shipping cost for shipping vice versa is the same. Prices are based on current 2026 Amtrak Auto Train rates. Keep in mind that pricing and availability are subject to change.

However, you still need to ask your carrier for exact quotes as the actual cost depends on factors like the rail service you select, availability, open container or enclosed shipping, and the total distance.

Most common auto carriers offer door-to-door delivery without charging extra for it. Door-to-door saves you the time and stress of going to the train station to collect your car, with the shipping company driving it to a location you choose by truck.

However, keep in mind that rail car transport companies do not offer it, you may have to arrange with third parties to get such service when you use auto transport by train.

When you factor in the cost of getting your car to and from the terminals, the price of train transport can start to look a lot less appealing. Even Thomas the Tank Engine would raise an eyebrow at those extra expenses!

So What Should I Choose?
Ship A Car By Train Or By Car Hauler?

No doubt Amtrak car shipping has its benefits. You get convenience, environmentally friendly transportation, and you can ride with your car. Auto transport by rail might be cheaper than shipping it on a car hauler.

This makes a solid choice for people running on tight budgets. However, if you choose between shipping a car by train or a car hauler, the odds are stacked against train shipping, especially if you want to ship across the country.

Rail is relatively not an effective way to transport your car because the rail system isn’t as flexible as car haulers. Though train transportation is mostly cheaper than using a car hauler transportation.

But the fact that there is only one route that is available for transportation makes it less appealing.

Car haulers have a variety of routes and can make multiple stops that allow them to divide the cost among the multiple car owners rather than one customer and offer better service with more delivery options for almost the same price. And with space limited on trains, there is little room for negotiations.

What’s more, the risk of vandalism is more when you take auto transportation by train than when you entrust your vehicle to car haulers. This is because cargo rail cars aren’t adequately secured, making it an unenthusiastic choice for shipping classic vehicles or antique cars.

Also, the rough ride of the train tracks can mess with fragile, antique vehicles, so you might be better off sticking to car haulers.

Feature	Amtrak Auto Train (Rail)	Professional Car Hauler (Truck)
Available Routes	Limited: Only Lorton, VA to Sanford, FL	Nationwide: Door-to-door delivery anywhere in the USA
Convenience	Terminal-to-terminal; you must travel with the car	Door-to-door: No need for you to travel or drive to a station
Estimated Price	$500–$900 + passenger tickets & travel expenses	All-inclusive: Competitive rates based on mileage and car size
Vehicle Flexibility	Strict size limits; mostly for standard cars/SUVs	Flexible: Fits any vehicle (classic, oversized, or inoperable)
Time & Schedule	Rigid schedule; runs once a day	Flexible: Pickup and delivery dates tailored to your needs

Preparing Car For the Shipping by Rail
& The Papers You Need To Check

If, after considering all the limitations, you decide that Amtrak’s Auto Train is the right choice for your specific situation, careful preparation is key. Here’s what you need to do:

Find a Train to Ship Your Car

As of 2026, Amtrak remains the only company in the U.S. to offer train auto transport. Their Auto Train runs only between Lorton, VA (near Washington D.C.) and Sanford, FL (near Orlando). If that route fits your plans, just reach out to Amtrak directly to book your vehicle.

If you need to ship your car somewhere outside this corridor or prefer door-to-door delivery, Compare The Carrier can help you get free quotes from reliable car transport companies. You can compare prices, check reviews, and avoid unreliable or fraudulent services.

Check Your Battery’s Health

Before shipping your vehicle, make sure the battery is fully charged and in good condition. A weak or dead battery can cause delays when you go to pick up your car at the final destination.

Purchase Your Ticket in Advance

Amtrak’s Auto Train tends to fill up fast, especially during busy travel seasons. Be sure to book your ticket early so you can secure your spot and avoid any last-minute stress.

Remove Valuables from Your Car

Although Amtrak lets you keep some personal items in your vehicle, it’s still a good idea to remove anything valuable, including:

Important documents
Cash, jewelry, or electronics
Medications or medical supplies

Keep these items with you during Amtrak car hauling to avoid any risk of loss or damage while your car is in transit.

Inspect Your Vehicle’s Tires

Ensure all four tires are properly inflated and in good condition. This reduces the risk of issues when loading or unloading your car from the train.

Document Your Car’s ConditionTaking photos and videos of your car’s condition from all angles is one of several strategies to protect your vehicle during shipping. This documentation is crucial in case of any damage during transit. Without proof, filing a claim with Amtrak or your insurance provider can be challenging.

Documents You Need for Auto Transport by Train

Just like shipping your car using car hauling services, you may need some documents or papers. Here are some of the ones that are likely to come up, with some optional:

Title and Registration

Title: Proof of ownership for your vehicle.

Registration: Confirms your car is legally registered in your home state.

While Amtrak may not always require these documents, it’s a good idea to have them on hand.

Bill of Lading (BOL)

The Bill of Lading is a critical document that:

Serves as proof of delivery.

Records the condition of your vehicle at pickup and drop-off.

Is required to file a claim for any damages during transit.

Make sure to review and sign the BOL carefully before your car is loaded onto the train.

Photo ID

A valid photo ID, such as a driver’s license, may be required for verification purposes.

Proof of Insurance

While not always mandatory, having proof of insurance is a good precaution. Check with Amtrak or your transport provider to confirm their requirements.

To ensure you have all the necessary documentation in order, consider using a vehicle shipping document checklist.

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Conclusion

Auto transport by train can be a practical, eco-friendly option if you’re traveling along Amtrak’s Lorton–Sanford corridor and don’t mind handling the extra logistics of terminal drop-off and pickup. However, for most other routes in the U.S., door-to-door car haulers offer broader coverage, flexible scheduling, and often comparable or better pricing once all costs are considered.

Before deciding on any transport method, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons, gather multiple quotes, and review each carrier’s policies. By doing so, you’ll not only protect your investment but also ensure your vehicle arrives safely and on schedule — whether it travels by train or truck.

If you need more help selecting the best option, Compare The Carrier can streamline your search and connect you with reliable providers for any destination.

Safe travels!

FAQ

Can you ship a car by train across the country?

No, you cannot ship a car by train across the country in 2026 because there are no regular transcontinental rail routes for vehicles. While rail is limited to specific corridors, professional car haulers remain the only reliable nationwide alternative. For cross-country moves, we recommend using licensed transporters that offer enclosed trailers and real-time GPS tracking.

How long does it take to ship a car by train?

It takes approximately 17 hours to ship a vehicle by train via the dedicated Amtrak Auto Train route. This specialized service runs daily between Sanford, Florida, and Lorton, Virginia. While the rail journey itself is fast, remember to factor in terminal processing times and potential travel to the station, which may add several hours to your total trip.

Can I ship my car by train with personal belongings inside?

Amtrak’s Auto Train generally allows you to keep some personal items in the trunk, but 2026 security guidelines strictly prohibit valuables or hazardous materials. For larger quantities of household goods or door-to-door convenience, professional car haulers are often a safer choice. They allow more flexibility and provide comprehensive insurance coverage for your vehicle and its contents during transit.

Do seasonal fluctuations affect the cost of auto transport by train?

Yes, seasonal demand significantly affects 2026 rail shipping costs, especially during “snowbird” seasons in winter and spring. Prices for Amtrak and independent car haulers typically peak when demand for Florida-bound routes is high. To secure the best rates, we recommend booking at least two weeks in advance and comparing rail costs with current door-to-door trucking alternatives.

Is there a simple way to handle Virginia to Florida auto transport by train?

The Amtrak Auto Train is the only direct rail option for Virginia to Florida auto transport in 2026. It connects Lorton, VA, and Sanford, FL, offering a convenient 17-hour journey. For those requiring door-to-door service outside this corridor, hiring a licensed car hauler is a more flexible alternative that avoids the logistics of terminal drop-offs and pickups.

Why do some car shipping companies claim to offer rail transportation?

Most companies claiming to offer rail transport are brokers who eventually switch your order to a truck. In 2026, major freight railroads only accept high-volume commercial contracts from manufacturers, not individual cars. Amtrak remains the only direct consumer rail option. Always verify if a quote is for a dedicated auto train or a standard car hauler.

What specific cities and terminals does the Amtrak Auto Train serve?

Amtrak Auto Train operates exclusively between two dedicated terminals: Lorton, Virginia (serving the Washington D.C. area) and Sanford, Florida (serving the Orlando area). It does not stop in other major cities. For any other destination in 2026, you must use a professional nationwide car shipping service that provides door-to-door delivery across all 50 states.

Can I ship multiple vehicles to an Amtrak train station at once?

Yes, you can ship multiple vehicles on the Amtrak Auto Train, including standard cars, SUVs, vans, and motorcycles. Each vehicle requires its own transport fee, and at least one passenger ticket is mandatory per reservation. For 2026, we recommend booking several weeks in advance, as space for multiple oversized vehicles on a single train is often limited.

Is the Amtrak Auto Train actually cheaper than hiring a car hauler?

Rail transport appears cheaper initially, with vehicle fees starting around $500. However, in 2026, you must consider passenger tickets, fuel costs to terminals, and total travel time. For many customers, professional door-to-door auto transport proves more cost-effective and less stressful once all hidden travel expenses and terminal logistics are fully calculated.

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