Looking to ship your car by train? This article covers why it’s a cost-effective, safe, and eco-friendly option. We’ll guide you through the benefits, costs, and steps involved in train car shipping.
Key Takeaways
- Shipping a car by train is cost-effective, typically saving over $200 compared to truck transport.
- Train transport is safer and more eco-friendly, emitting 75% fewer greenhouse gases than trucks.
- Preparation for train shipping is crucial, including removing valuables and ensuring your car is clean and functional.
In This Guide:
- Advantages of Shipping a Car by Train
- Advantages to Truck Transport
- How Train Transport Works for Vehicle Shipping
- Cost Factors in Train Shipping
- Popular Routes for Train Car Shipping
- Specialized Services for Unique Vehicles
- Amtrak Auto Train: A Convenient Option
- Important Considerations for Train Shipping
- Summary
- Ship Car by Train FAQs
Advantages of Shipping a Car by Train
- Cost: Trains are inherently more fuel-efficient than trucks, leading to lower transportation costs. For standard-sized vehicles, this often translates to significant savings.
- Eco-friendly: Trains emit significantly less carbon than trucks, reducing the environmental impact of your move. It reduces greenhouse gas emissions by up to 75% compared to road transport.
- Safety: Shipping your car by train reduces exposure to road risks like debris, helping keep your vehicle protected throughout the journey. Many train services use enclosed containers, further safeguarding your car from the elements and potential damage. Transporting vehicles by train also significantly reduces wear and tear compared to long-distance driving.
Advantages to Truck Transport
- Greater flexibility in transport routes
- Typically faster delivery times, especially for shorter distances
- Door-to-door delivery, which might not be available with train transport.
While train transport tends to be slower due to less frequent departures and the need for full loads, it remains a viable option for those prioritizing cost and environmental impact. Ultimately, the choice between train and truck transport depends on your specific needs, budget, and timeline.
How Train Transport Works for Vehicle Shipping
Shipping your car by train involves several steps, starting with preparation. Before dropping off your vehicle, make sure to:
- Remove any valuable or sensitive items. Also remove any external attachments, such as bike racks, to avoid potential damage during transit.
- Disable the car’s alarm to prevent it from being triggered during transport.
- Take clear photos of your car to document its condition, capturing images from all angles, including the interior.
- Verify that your car’s battery is fully charged.
- Ensure the tires are properly inflated.
When arriving at the terminal for check-in, ensure that all necessary preparations are complete. Vehicle check-in starts a few hours before departure, so arriving early can help avoid any last-minute issues. Proper preparation can make the entire shipping process much smoother and stress-free.
The journey does not end at drop-off. Upon arrival at the destination terminal, you will need to pick up your vehicle. Terminals are equipped to handle the unloading process efficiently, ensuring your car is ready for you to drive away as soon as it arrives.
Cost Factors in Train Shipping
Understanding the cost factors in train shipping can help you budget effectively. Shipping costs for cars by train typically range from $400 to $1,500, depending on several factors. For a standard-sized vehicle, the cost usually falls between $500 and $600. Larger vehicles like SUVs may incur additional fees due to their size.
Additional services and factors that can affect the overall cost include:
- Priority offloading
- Door-to-door delivery
- Enclosed transport, which is generally more expensive than open transport and offers additional protection
- Seasonal trends, with costs often rising during peak moving periods.
When comparing train transport to truck shipping, train shipping tends to be cheaper. It’s generally $200+ less than trucking, making it a cost-effective choice for many. Factors like distance, vehicle specifications, and shipping mode play crucial roles in determining the total cost.
Popular Routes for Train Car Shipping
Several key rail hubs facilitate efficient vehicle shipping across major routes. Cities like Chicago, Kansas City, and Denver serve as significant rail hubs, connecting various parts of the country. Major rail routes often link key cities such as Los Angeles, Chicago, and New York, ensuring broad geographic coverage for car shipping needs.
Freight trains primarily travel along established corridors that link major metropolitan areas, making long-distance moves more convenient. These rail hubs and one route play a crucial role in the efficient transport of vehicles, ensuring timely and reliable delivery and faster transit times.
Specialized Services for Unique Vehicles
Shipping specialized vehicles requires tailored services to ensure they are transported safely. Working with experienced rail transport providers is essential, as they understand the unique requirements of different vehicle types. For motorcycles, dedicated carriers are available to transport them securely and safely. This shipment of vehicles must be handled with care.
Whether you have a compact car, a larger vehicle, or something unique, specialized auto transport services can cater to your specific shipping needs. Ensuring you choose the right provider can make all the difference in the safe and efficient transport of your vehicle. If you need to ship your car, selecting a reliable service is essential.
Amtrak Auto Train: A Convenient Option
Amtrak’s auto train offers a convenient option for those looking to ship their car by train. Operating between Lorton, Virginia, and Sanford, Florida, Amtrak’s Auto Train covers approximately 900 miles, providing a hassle-free travel option. The estimated travel time is under 18 hours, making it a time-efficient choice for long-distance moves.
The cost to ship a car on the Auto Train is affordable compared to other transport services. Key details include:
- Passenger ticket prices range from $89 to over $1,100, depending on the service level, offering various options to suit different budgets.
- Checking in your vehicle starts at 11:30 a.m. Vehicle check-in must be completed at least two hours before departure.
The Auto Train also offers additional amenities such as sleeping accommodations, including Family Rooms and Roomettes, enhancing the travel experience. With designated service stops for passenger comfort, the Auto Train provides a convenient and comfortable option for car shipping and travel.
Important Considerations for Train Shipping
When considering train shipping, it’s essential to be aware of certain limitations. Train services are primarily limited to major cities, which can make access challenging for those in rural areas. Additionally, train transport may not be suitable for individuals needing rapid delivery, as trains typically wait to be fully loaded before departing.
Vehicles must meet specific size and height requirements to be eligible for train transport, which can be a limiting factor for some. Priority offloading can be reserved to expedite the speed of the process at the destination, but this comes at an additional cost.
Finally, using services like Amtrak’s Auto Train requires purchasing a passenger ticket along with car shipping, adding to the overall expense. Understanding these considerations can help you better plan and decide if train shipping is the right choice for you.
Summary
Shipping a car by train offers numerous benefits, from cost savings and environmental advantages to enhanced safety and reduced wear and tear. The process involves several steps, from preparation to loading and unloading, ensuring your vehicle is transported efficiently and securely.
If you decide that train shipping is not right for your needs, Sherpa Auto Transport is the most trusted truck transport service in the nation. Sherpa offers both open and enclosed shipping services, motorcycle transport, as well as shipping nationwide to all 50 states, including Alaska and Hawaii. With an average 4.9 star rating on over 9,000 customer reviews, Sherpa Auto Transport is the easiest way to get your vehicle to its destination in perfect condition.
Ship Car by Train FAQs
How much does it cost to ship a car by train?
Shipping a car by train usually costs between $400 and $1,500, depending on the size of the vehicle and the distance traveled. It’s always best to check for specific quotes based on your needs.
What are the environmental benefits of shipping a car by train?
Shipping a car by train is a greener choice, as it emits 75% fewer greenhouse gases than trucking. By choosing train transport, you’re helping reduce your carbon footprint.
What is the Amtrak Auto Train, and how does it work?
The Amtrak Auto Train is a unique service that allows you to travel with your car from Lorton, Virginia, to Sanford, Florida, in under 18 hours. It’s a great way to save time and make your trip hassle-free.
What are the limitations of train shipping?
Train shipping is great for major cities, but it can be slow and has strict size requirements for vehicles. Keep these factors in mind if you’re considering it for your shipping needs.
How do I prepare my car for train shipping?
To prepare your car for train shipping, start by cleaning it and locking the doors, while also removing any personal items. Don’t forget to document its condition, ensure the battery is charged, and check that the tires are inflated.
