What Is the Cost to Ship a Car by Train? Find Affordable Haulers

Are you considering shipping your car by train? If you are moving interstate or shipping your car to a new location, knowing the exact cost to ship a car by train can be difficult.

Car shipping can be expensive, and you’ll want to ensure you’re getting the best value for your money. Shipping your vehicle by train is a great option that can have many benefits.

In this article, we’re going to explore how much it costs to ship a car by train and why it’s a great option for transporting your car. Read on to learn about the car shipping cost and other factors that determine rates.

Why Choose Train Transport for Car Shipping?

When it comes to transporting your vehicle to another location, there are a few different options to choose from. You can always drive your car yourself, hire a professional carrier or ship your car by train.

While each method has its unique advantages and disadvantages, shipping your car by train has many benefits. Here are some of the reasons you may want to consider train transport for car shipping:

1. Cost-Effective: Shipping your car by train is often more cost-effective than hiring a carrier. It’s a great option if you’re looking to save some money and don’t mind waiting a little bit longer for your vehicle.

2. Safe & Secure: Trains have the highest safety record of all modes of transportation. They are much less likely to experience an accident or delay when compared to other options.

3. Environmentally Friendly: Trains produce fewer emissions than other transport options, making them a more environmentally friendly way of moving your car.

How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Car by Train?

Now that we’ve discussed the benefits of shipping a car by train, let’s dive into how much it will cost. The cost of shipping your car by train can vary depending on a range of factors, including distance, location, and vehicle size.

To give you an idea of how much it could cost, we’ve put together some examples:

1. Short-Distance Shipping: If you’re shipping your car to a location relatively close to where you currently are, ground shipping costs usually between $300 to $800.

2. Cross-Country Shipping: If your car needs to be shipped across the country, the cost is typically between $1,000 to $1,500.

3. Luxury Cars Shipping: If your car is luxury, the shipping cost will be higher. Expect to pay between $1,500 to $4,000, depending on distance and other factors.

4. Seasonal Shipping: Shipping a car during peak seasons, like holidays, can also increase the rate. So, consider the time of year you want to ship your car to get the best deal.

It’s important to keep in mind that these prices are just general estimates. The final cost will depend on various factors that we will discuss in further detail below.

How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Car by Train: Pricing Factors

Shipping your car by train can be one of the most affordable ways of transporting it, but it’s important to understand the factors that may impact the final cost.

1. Distance: The most significant factor in car shipping cost by train is the distance between the starting and destination points.

2. Vehicle Size: Vehicle dimensions, such as length, height, and weight, can influence cost. Larger cars will take up more space on a train and will, therefore, cost more to transport.

3. Location: Some destinations may cost more to ship to due to the destination’s location.

4. Shipping Season: The season you choose to ship your car can affect the final cost. For instance, increased demand might make shipping during the winter holidays more expensive.

5. Type of Rail Carrier: The type of rail carrier also affects cost. Shipping by private rail carrier is often more expensive.

6. Additional Services: Additional services like door-to-door delivery, enclosed transport, or expedited shipping can add to the final cost.

By understanding what factors contribute to the cost of shipping a car by train, you’ll be better equipped to find the most affordable option for your needs.

How to Find the Best Train Transport Company For Shipping Your Car

The next step in shipping your car by train is to find a reputable train transport company. Here are some things to consider:

1. Check Their Safety Record: Always choose a company with a strong safety record with no major accidents.

2. Check Their Reviews: Look for a company with positive reviews from previous customers.

3. Request a Quote: Compare the cost of shipping your car among different companies.

4. Services Offered: Review the services offered by different companies, including delivery options, tracking, and insurance.

Preparing Your Car for Train Shipping

Before shipping your car by train, it’s essential to take some steps to prepare your vehicle for the journey. Proper preparation ensures your car’s safety and smooth transport. Here are a few tips to help you get your car ready:

1. Clean Your Car: Thoroughly clean your car, both inside and out. Removing dirt and debris will make inspecting your vehicle before and after transport easier. Cleaning the interior will prevent damage caused by loose items during transit.
2. Perform a Maintenance Check: Check your car’s fluid levels, tire pressure, and battery charge. Ensure there are no leaks and that your car is in good running condition. If your car has any issues, inform the train transport company beforehand.
3. Document Your Car’s Condition: Take detailed photos of your car from different angles before handing it over to the transport company. This documentation will serve as proof of your car’s pre-shipment condition in case of any damage during transit.
4. Remove Personal Items: As mentioned earlier, some train transport companies may not allow personal items in the car during shipping. Even if they do, removing any valuable or fragile items is best to prevent potential damage or theft.

Understanding Train Shipping Delivery Options

When shipping your car by train, you’ll need to choose between several delivery options. Understanding these options will help you decide to best fit your needs.

1. Terminal-to-Terminal Delivery: This option involves dropping off your car at a designated shipping terminal near your current location and picking it up at another terminal near your destination. While this is often the most affordable option, it may require additional time and effort for you to transport your car to and from the terminals.
2. Door-to-Terminal Delivery: With this option, the train transport company picks up your car from your preferred location and transports it to the shipping terminal. You’ll still need to pick up your car at the destination terminal, but it saves time and effort at the origin point.
3. Terminal-to-Door Delivery: In this case, you drop off your car at the shipping terminal, and the transport company delivers it to your desired location at the destination. This option provides convenience at the destination end of the journey.
4. Door-to-Door Delivery: For maximum convenience, door-to-door delivery involves the transport company picking up your car from your preferred location and delivering it directly to your desired destination. While this option may be more expensive, it eliminates the need to transport your car to and from shipping terminals.

When choosing a delivery option, consider factors such as cost, convenience, and your schedule to find the best solution for your car shipping needs.

FAQs: Cost To Ship a Car by Train

Is Shipping a Car by Train Faster Than Shipping It by Truck?

While train shipping can be faster than truck shipping in some cases, it generally takes longer due to train schedules and limited routes. However, it is often more cost-effective and environmentally friendly.

Can I Ship My Car by Train if It’s Not Running?

Yes, most train transport companies can ship non-running vehicles. However, there might be additional fees for special handling and equipment. Make sure to inform the company about your car’s condition when requesting a quote.

Can I Load Personal Belongings in My Car During Train Shipping?

Policies regarding personal belongings in cars during shipping vary among train transport companies. Some allow a limited amount of belongings, while others do not permit it. Always check with the company to understand their specific rules.

Can I Track My Car During Shipping by Train?

Many train transport companies offer tracking options for customers to monitor their vehicle during transit. This can provide peace of mind and help you plan for the car’s arrival.

Is My Car Insured During Shipping by Train?

Most train transport companies provide insurance coverage for vehicles during transit. Reviewing the coverage details and ensuring your car is adequately protected in case of damage or accidents is essential.

Bottom Line

Shipping your car by train is one of the best ways to save money while getting the job done right. By understanding the cost of shipping a car by train, the factors that contribute to it, and the best train transport companies, you’ll be well on your way to finding the most affordable option for your needs.

CitizenShipper provides affordable and reliable car shipping services. We are committed to ensuring your vehicle arrives at your desired location safely and efficiently, all while saving you money. Contact us today to get a quote!