Are you looking to transport your car and searching for the most cost-effective and convenient method? Consider Amtrak’s Auto Train, a budget-friendly option for drivers traveling between the Northeast and Florida. This service not only offers affordability but comes with several significant advantages for vehicle transportation. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of choosing train transport for your car, making it a compelling option for your upcoming move.
Amtrack Key Insights
- The Amtrak Auto Train offers an affordable and swift journey, exclusively operating between Washington, D.C., and Orlando, Florida.
- Amtrak’s auto transport service offers an excellent solution for transporting vehicles up and down the East Coast.
- Transporting a vehicle via rail often proves to be more cost-effective than employing the services of an auto transport company.
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Instant QuoteIs It Possible to Transport a Car via Train?
Transporting a vehicle via train, while feasible, comes with considerable limitations regarding timing and locations, rendering it an impractical solution for many. Presently, the only viable option is the Amtrak Auto Train Line, offering a direct route from Washington, D.C. to Florida, with no stops until Orlando.
This means that if you’re looking to move your car to North Carolina, South Carolina, or Georgia, this service won’t be an option for you. Despite these restrictions, shipping a vehicle by train remains an economical option, especially for those traveling from the Washington, D.C. area to destinations in the southern United States. However, you might still need to enlist the help of an additional car-moving service.
How Works Car Shipping By Train
Transporting your car by train becomes a straightforward affair when geographical boundaries pose no constraints. Begin by booking an Auto Train and passenger ticket through Amtrak’s website. Next, drive your car to the designated departure station, fully packed for the journey. For instance, departing from Washington, D.C., involves a visit to the Auto Train station in Lorton, Virginia, while leaving from Orlando means heading to the station in Sanford, Florida. It’s crucial to adhere to the strict car loading deadline, so punctuality is key. Once your car is loaded, board the train and settle in for the 17-hour ride. Remember to pack essentials such as food, water, and toiletries. Upon arrival, retrieve your vehicle and continue to your ultimate destination.
Advantages of Transporting Your Car by Train with Amtrak
Amtrak’s car shipping offers an appealing solution for those transporting vehicles between the Northeast and Florida, thanks to its affordability and convenience. The service boasts several advantages, including:
Time-Saving
The Amtrak auto train significantly outpaces truck shipping in terms of speed. For instance, the direct rail journey from Lorton, Virginia, to Sanford, Florida, is completed in 17 hours and 29 minutes, which is approximately a week and a half quicker than the typical timeline offered by standard vehicle shipping services.
Cost-Effectiveness
Amtrak’s Auto Train service offers passenger tickets starting at $95, with additional fees for vehicle transportation. According to Amtrak’s website, transporting a standard car costs approximately $466-516, while an extended vehicle costs about $536-594, and a motorcycle is priced at $292. For an additional $158, passengers can opt for priority vehicle offloading, ensuring their vehicle is among the first 30 to be unloaded from the train.
Dependability
While the Amtrak Auto Train service is largely reliable, it can sometimes face delays due to unpredictable factors like weather disruptions or technical issues. To enhance its dependability, Amtrak has introduced measures such as comprehensive maintenance programs and the acquisition of new equipment.
Ease of Use
Traveling up and down the East Coast by train removes the hassles of driving. Rather than navigating through endless traffic on Interstate 95, passengers on the Auto Train can relax, enjoy the scenic views, or get some work done.
Shipping Your Car via Train: An Overview of Costs
Travelers looking to economize on vehicle transportation between Washington, D.C., Orlando, and other cities will find Amtrak’s car shipping service to be a cost-effective option. Amtrak’s Auto Train service offers competitive one-way fares, often making it the least expensive choice for vehicle delivery.
- Standard Vehicle: $208 per vehicle
- Extended vehicle: $239 per vehicle
- Motorcycle: $146 per vehicle
Essential Steps to Take Before Transporting Your Car via Train
To ensure your vehicle is ready for shipping, it’s important to follow several critical steps. Here are some key measures to consider:
- Cleaning Your Car. Ensure you thoroughly clean your car before handing it over for transfer. A clean car makes it simpler to spot any pre-existing damage and any new damage that might occur during shipping.
- Disable Car Alarms. Before handing your vehicle over for transport, ensure the alarm system is deactivated. This prevents the alarm from triggering during transit, avoiding unnecessary disturbances.
- Removing Personal Belongings. Before handing over your vehicle for transport, it’s crucial to remove all personal items. This step safeguards your belongings against possible damage or loss while in transit.
- Documenting the Car’s Condition. Prior to shipping, it’s crucial to photograph your car from multiple angles to meticulously document its current condition. This step will be invaluable in identifying any damage that might occur during transit.
- Preparing For Inspection. Before shipping your vehicle, it will undergo an inspection for any existing damage. Ensure you possess all necessary documents, including registration and insurance, to facilitate a smooth and efficient inspection process.
Check our comprehensive guide about: How to ship a Car by Train?
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Options for Transporting a Car Other Than By Train
Explore alternatives to train transportation, including auto and truck transport, driveaway services, rental vehicles, or driving yourself. Car and truck transport services offer the convenience of home or office pickup, while driveaway services feature professional drivers to deliver your vehicle directly.
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Choose Safe Car Hauling for your vehicle transportation needs and enjoy peace of mind, knowing that your assigned carrier is fully insured and licensed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Get your free quote by clicking here!
FAQs About Amtrak Car Transport
Is transporting a vehicle via rail more cost-effective than using an auto shipping service?
Shipping by train often proves to be more cost-effective compared to employing a car shipping service, though this varies based on individual circumstances and service requirements. For instance, while Amtrak offers competitive fares for car shipping on a specific route, a car shipping company might provide greater flexibility in terms of pick-up and drop-off locations. Consequently, a thorough comparison of both prices and services is crucial.
How many major cities does Amtrak Auto Train serve?
Amtrak’s Auto Train connects two key destinations: Washington, D.C., and Orlando, Florida.
Is it necessary for my car to be operational in order to ship it by train?
Yes, for your car to be eligible for train transportation, it must be in operational condition. Specifically, it should have the capability to start, stop, steer, and brake effectively. Additionally, your vehicle must be able to roll, as it will need to be driven onto and off the train. If your car is not operational, you might need to consider alternative transportation options, like utilizing a car shipping service that accommodates non-functional vehicles.