When it comes to moving a car across long distances, most people immediately think of trucks and auto carriers. But did you know you can also ship your car by train? While not as widely available as truck transport, rail shipping has been around for decades and can be a smart option for some drivers. Let’s break down how it works, the costs, and the pros and cons so you can decide if it’s right for you.
How Does Car Shipping by Train Work?
Car shipping by train uses specialized auto rack railcars, which are designed to transport vehicles safely across long distances. Here’s the typical process:
- Drop-Off at Rail Terminal – You’ll bring your vehicle to a designated rail hub or terminal.
- Loading & Securing – The car is driven onto an enclosed or open auto rack, then secured in place.
- Transport Across Rail Network – The train travels to its destination, carrying hundreds of cars at once.
- Pick-Up at Destination Terminal – You’ll retrieve your car at the arrival station, or in some cases, arrange for a truck carrier to deliver it to your door.
Fun Fact: Amtrak operates one of the most well-known car transport services in the U.S. — the Amtrak Auto Train, running between Virginia and Florida.
Average Costs of Shipping a Car by Train
The cost of shipping a car by train can vary widely based on route, vehicle type, and service options.
- Shorter Routes (under 500 miles): $400 – $600
- Cross-Country Routes (over 1,500 miles): $700 – $1,000
- Enclosed Transport (luxury/exotics): $900 – $1,300
- Extra Services (personal belongings, insurance upgrades): Additional $100 – $300
By comparison, shipping the same car on a truck may cost between $800 – $1,500. That means train shipping is often 20–40% cheaper than truck transport.
Pro Tip: Rail shipping prices are more consistent than truck shipping, which fluctuates with fuel costs and driver availability.
Benefits of Shipping Your Car by Train
Shipping by train has several strong advantages:
- Lower Cost – Because railcars move hundreds of vehicles at once, the cost per car is usually cheaper.
- Environmentally Friendly – Trains are far more fuel-efficient than trucks, lowering your carbon footprint.
- Safe & Secure – Vehicles are locked into auto racks, protected from highway debris, accidents, and excess mileage.
- Ideal for Long Distances – Especially useful for cross-country moves, students, military families, or snowbirds.
- Less Wear & Tear – No extra mileage, no exposure to rough roads.
Drawbacks and Limitations
Despite the benefits, there are reasons why train shipping isn’t as popular as trucks:
- Limited Availability – Only major rail hubs (not every city) offer car transport services.
- No Door-to-Door Service – You’ll need to drop off and pick up at stations, unless you add truck delivery at extra cost.
- Less Flexibility – Trains run on fixed schedules, unlike trucks which can often be booked for specific dates.
- Longer Transit Times – Rail shipping can take more time compared to direct truck routes.
Who Should Consider Rail Transport?
Rail shipping is best for:
- Cross-country movers (East to West Coast, or vice versa).
- Budget-conscious customers who want a cheaper alternative to trucks.
- Environmentally conscious drivers who want to reduce their carbon footprint.
- People near rail hubs who don’t mind dropping off and picking up their cars.
If convenience and speed are your top priorities, truck transport may be better. But if you’re looking for cost savings and security, the train is worth considering.
How Train Shipping Compares to Truck Transport
| Feature | Train Shipping | Truck Shipping |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Lower on average | Higher (but flexible) |
| Availability | Limited (major hubs only) | Nationwide coverage |
| Convenience | Station-to-station | Door-to-door |
| Transit Time | Longer | Faster (varies by driver) |
| Eco-Friendly | Yes | Less efficient |
| Flexibility | Low (fixed schedules) | High (custom pickup/delivery) |
How to Book a Car Shipment by Train
Booking rail transport isn’t as simple as booking a truck, but here’s how you can do it:
- Find Rail Providers – Research Amtrak’s Auto Train (for FL–VA route) or private rail logistics companies.
- Get a Quote – Provide details like vehicle type, pickup/delivery stations, and dates.
- Prepare Your Car – Empty personal items, check fluids, and ensure the car is in working condition.
- Drop Off at Terminal – Arrive early with ID, registration, and paperwork.
- Pick Up at Destination – Retrieve your car or arrange for final-mile delivery by truck.
FAQs About Car Shipping by Train
1. Can I ship personal belongings inside my car?
Some providers allow limited belongings, but weight limits and fees may apply. Always check before booking.
2. Is my car insured during rail transport?
Yes, most rail companies provide basic insurance. You may purchase extra coverage for added protection.
3. Is train shipping faster than truck shipping?
Not usually — trucks tend to be faster since they don’t rely on fixed train schedules.
4. Does Amtrak offer cross-country car shipping?
Currently, Amtrak only operates the Auto Train between Virginia and Florida. For other routes, private rail logistics companies may help.
Final Thoughts
Shipping your car by train is a safe, cost-effective, and eco-friendly option — but it’s not for everyone. If you live near a rail terminal and want to save money on a long-distance move, it may be the perfect solution. However, if you need door-to-door service and flexible scheduling, truck transport will likely be more convenient.
Not sure if train or truck is right for you? Get a free quote today and compare your options with our trusted auto transport services.