Can You Ship an RV by Train? What to Know Before You Decide

You can technically ship an RV by train, but options are extremely limited in the United States. Amtrak’s Auto Train — the only U.S. passenger rail service that carries vehicles — runs a single route from Lorton, Virginia, to Sanford, Florida, and restricts vehicles to 75 inches tall and 19.5 feet long. Most RVs exceed these limits, which means rail transport is not a practical option for the majority of RV owners. Professional RV transport services, where a vetted driver moves your RV door-to-door, are the most common and cost-effective alternative, typically costing $1.00–$3.00 per mile.

Can You Ship an RV by Train in the U.S.?

While it’s well-known that trains are used to transport vehicles and heavy goods, using this method for RV shipping is a more complex issue. In the United States, rail transport for personal vehicles is limited and mostly offered for standard passenger vehicles. So, when answering the question, “Can I ship my RV by train?”, the answer isn’t a simple yes or no. It’s more about understanding rail transport’s logistics, rules, and regulations, which generally favor smaller, lighter vehicles.

Challenges of Shipping an RV by Train

There are several reasons why shipping an RV by train isn’t as straightforward. These include:

• Size and weight: RVs are larger and heavier than standard vehicles, which can cause difficulties in loading and unloading from a train. Also, the rail network has specific size and weight restrictions that may not accommodate larger RVs.
• Limited routes: Rail shipping has limited routes and terminals. This could mean you’d still need to arrange additional transportation to get your RV to its final destination.
• Cost: Given the additional handling and logistics required, shipping an RV by train may be more costly than other methods.

Alternatives To Train Shipping: RV Delivery Services

Understanding the challenges of train transport leads many to explore other options. One such solution is to use a professional RV delivery service. These services offer door-to-door delivery and can handle RVs of all sizes.

Our RV delivery service at CitizenShipper connects you with a network of vetted transporters who specialize in RV shipping. This means you can trust your vehicle will be handled carefully and arrive safely at its destination.

Is It Worth It? Can I Ship My RV by Train?

In summary, while shipping an RV by train might be technically possible, the process can be complicated, expensive, and limited regarding routes. A more efficient and often cost-effective option is to use an RV delivery service such as CitizenShipper.

Your RV is too valuable for guesswork. Post your shipment in under 2 minutes — it’s free, and you’re not committed until you choose a transporter. List Your RV Shipment →

Choosing the Right RV Shipping Method

When faced with the question, “Can I ship my RV by train?”, the decision-making process might seem overwhelming. Here, we’ll explore the essential factors to consider in choosing the right RV shipping method for your needs. First, consider the type and size of your RV. Class A and Class C motorhomes, fifth wheels, and other large RVs might pose challenges for rail shipping due to their size and weight. On the other hand, smaller travel trailers and campervans might fit within the rail transport restrictions. However, you’ll still need to factor in rail routes’ cost, availability, and limitations.

Secondly, the time frame for your RV’s delivery can influence your decision. While train shipping might seem faster, the limited routes and schedules can often result in longer shipping times. Additionally, loading and unloading times can add significant delays. Finally, there’s the question of convenience. Shipping your RV by train often means dealing with additional logistics like getting your RV to and from the train station, which might not be near your desired location. This can add stress and further costs to your move. This is where an RV delivery service like CitizenShipper shines. With a professional transporter, you get door-to-door service, timely delivery, and personalized care for your vehicle.

How Much Does It Cost to Ship an RV by Train vs. Other Methods?

RV shipping costs vary widely depending on the transportation method, distance traveled, RV size, and route availability. While some travelers research train transport first, rail options for RVs are extremely limited in the United States.

Amtrak Auto Train

The most commonly referenced train option is the Amtrak Auto Train, which operates only between Lorton, Virginia and Sanford, Florida. Pricing for standard passenger vehicles typically ranges from approximately $200–$500 depending on season and ticket availability.

However, Amtrak does not accept most RVs because of strict vehicle size limitations. The Auto Train only accommodates vehicles up to:

• 75 inches tall
• 19.5 feet long

These restrictions exclude:

• Class A motorhomes
• Most Class C motorhomes
• Most fifth wheels
• Many travel trailers

Because of these limitations, train shipping is not a realistic option for most RV owners.

Professional RV Transport (Drive-Away)

Professional RV transport services are far more common and flexible. Drive-away RV transport typically costs around $1.00–$3.00 per mile depending on:

• RV size and weight
• Distance traveled
• Fuel prices
• Seasonal demand
• Route popularity

For example, a 1,000-mile RV shipment may cost approximately $1,000–$3,000.

Drive-away services involve a professional driver operating the RV directly to its destination, making this one of the most common transport methods for motorhomes.

Flatbed Trailer Transport

Smaller RVs, campers, and trailers that fit on commercial flatbeds may be transported using trailer hauling services. Flatbed RV transport generally costs approximately $2.00–$5.00 per mile due to specialized equipment and loading requirements.

This method is more commonly used for:

• Small campers
• Teardrop trailers
• Compact travel trailers
• Non-drivable RV units

On CitizenShipper, RV owners can list their shipment for free and receive competitive bids from vetted transporters nationwide. Comparing multiple quotes often results in lower pricing than contacting a single transport company directly.

Can You Ship an RV to Hawaii or Internationally?

Yes, but RV shipping to Hawaii or overseas requires ocean freight rather than rail or standard over-the-road transport services.

Shipping an RV to Hawaii

Transporting an RV to Hawaii typically involves either container shipping or roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) vessel service departing from major West Coast ports such as:

• Long Beach, California
• Oakland, California
• Tacoma, Washington

Pricing generally ranges from approximately $2,000–$5,000 depending on:

• RV size and weight
• Port location
• Shipping method
• Seasonal demand

Smaller camper vans and compact RVs may fit inside shipping containers, while larger motorhomes are usually transported using RoRo service, where the vehicle is driven directly onto the ship.

International RV Shipping

International RV shipping is more complex and usually requires:

• Customs documentation
• Import permits
• Duties and taxes
• Vehicle inspections
• Compliance with local vehicle regulations

Some countries also enforce restrictions involving vehicle age, emissions standards, or right-hand-drive requirements. Shipping timelines can vary significantly depending on the destination country and port congestion.

CitizenShipper currently connects RV owners with domestic transporters throughout the continental United States and does not provide overseas or Hawaii ocean freight shipping services.

Ready to see what RV transport actually costs for your route? List your RV shipment for free on CitizenShipper and receive competitive bids from background-checked transporters within hours. Get Free RV Shipping Quotes →

How CitizenShipper’s RV Delivery Marketplace Works

When answering the question, “Can I ship my RV by train?” it becomes clear that there’s a more straightforward, reliable solution – a professional RV delivery service. At CitizenShipper, our RV delivery service offers numerous advantages over train shipping. First, we handle RVs of all sizes, eliminating the worry about size and weight restrictions. Secondly, our door-to-door service means that your RV is picked up from your location and delivered directly to your destination, removing the need for additional transportation.

Our network of experienced transporters is committed to ensuring your RV arrives safely and on time. They’re equipped to handle any challenges during transport, giving you peace of mind. Most importantly, our service is designed to be cost-effective. By allowing transporters to bid on your shipment, you can choose the price that fits your budget. This competitive bidding process often results in lower costs than traditional shipping methods. Ultimately, while it’s possible to ship an RV by train under specific circumstances, a professional RV delivery service like CitizenShipper offers a more convenient, reliable, and often more cost-effective solution.

FAQs

Can you ship an RV by train?

You can ship small vehicles by train on Amtrak's Auto Train, which runs from Lorton, Virginia, to Sanford, Florida. However, the Auto Train only accepts vehicles up to 75 inches tall and 19.5 feet long, which excludes most RVs. There is no other U.S. passenger rail service that transports personal vehicles. For RVs, professional ground transport through a marketplace like CitizenShipper is the standard alternative.

How much does it cost to ship an RV?

RV shipping costs typically range from $1.00 to $3.00 per mile for professional drive-away transport. A 1,000-mile RV shipment costs approximately $1,000–$3,000, while a cross-country move of 2,500 miles may cost $2,500–$7,500. Costs vary by RV type, size, distance, route difficulty, and seasonal demand. On CitizenShipper, competitive bidding from multiple transporters often reduces the final price.

What is the cheapest way to ship an RV?

The cheapest way to ship an RV is through a transport marketplace like CitizenShipper, where multiple drivers bid on your shipment competitively. Drive-away transport — where a professional driver physically drives your motorhome to the destination — is generally the least expensive method at $1.00–$2.00 per mile. Flatbed transport for towable RVs costs more, typically $2.00–$5.00 per mile, because it requires a specialized truck and trailer.

How long does it take to ship an RV across the country?

Cross-country RV shipping typically takes 7–14 days from booking to delivery. The actual drive time for a 2,500-mile trip is 4–6 days, but scheduling, pickup coordination, and driver availability add to the total timeline. On CitizenShipper, you can specify your delivery window and receive bids from transporters who can meet your schedule.

Can you ship an RV to Hawaii?

You can ship an RV to Hawaii via ocean freight from West Coast ports like Long Beach or Oakland. Roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) service is the most common method and typically costs $2,000–$5,000 depending on RV size. Container shipping is an alternative for smaller RVs. CitizenShipper currently connects RV owners with domestic ground transporters across the continental United States.

Bottom Line

While the thought of shipping your RV by train may initially seem appealing, the practical considerations quickly mount. From size and weight restrictions to logistical hurdles and potentially inflated costs, the process can quickly become more trouble than it’s worth. In contrast, using a professional RV delivery marketplace like CitizenShipper simplifies the process. Offering door-to-door service, handling RVs of all sizes, and providing a competitive bidding process to ensure cost-effectiveness, it’s a solution designed with your needs in mind.

When asking, “Can I ship my RV by train?”, consider your options carefully. More often than not, you’ll find that a professional delivery service offers more benefits and less stress, allowing you to focus on the excitement of your upcoming travel plans rather than the logistics of RV transport. Remember, the safety and convenience of your RV transport are paramount. Choose a method that provides peace of mind, reliability, and value for your money.