Auto Train Cars

The service connects Lorton, Virginia, near Washington, DC, with Sanford, Florida, near Orlando. Cars, SUVs, vans, trucks and motorcycles can be transported on the Auto Train as long as they meet the applicable size and vehicle requirements.

For travelers planning to spend several days or weeks at their destination, bringing their own vehicle can also be more convenient than renting a car after arrival.

Car on Auto Train

A car on Auto Train travels in a specially designed vehicle carrier while the passengers travel in the passenger cars. Your vehicle is checked in at the station before you board the train, and you will not have access to it during the journey.

When making your reservation, you should include your vehicle in the booking. Amtrak recommends reserving the vehicle at the same time as the passenger reservation.

On the day of departure, vehicle check-in begins at 11:30 AM. Standard and extended vehicles generally need to be checked in by 2:30 PM, while some vehicle categories have an earlier 2:00 PM deadline. These deadlines are important because exceptions cannot be made.

Once your car has been checked in, take everything you will need for the overnight journey with you. Passengers do not have access to their vehicles while the Auto Train is traveling.

What Cars Can Go on the Auto Train?

The Auto Train can carry a variety of vehicles, but the vehicle must meet the applicable dimensions and other requirements.

Standard factory-model vehicles are accepted, along with certain extended vehicles such as trucks, vans and three-row SUVs. Two-wheeled motorcycles are also accepted under separate size requirements.

Standard Vehicles

Standard vehicles can currently have:

• Maximum length: 192 inches or 16 feet
• Maximum height: 85 inches
• Maximum width: 84 inches, including mirrors
• Minimum ground clearance: 4 inches
• Maximum tire width: 14.5 inches

The vehicle check-in deadline for standard vehicles is currently 2:30 PM.

This category covers many ordinary passenger cars and other factory-model vehicles.

Extended Vehicles on Auto Train

Some larger vehicles are classified as extended vehicles.

This category can include certain:

• Pickup trucks
• Vans
• Three-row SUVs

The current maximum dimensions for an extended vehicle are:

• Maximum length: 216 inches or 18 feet
• Maximum height: 85 inches
• Maximum width: 84 inches, including mirrors
• Minimum ground clearance: 4 inches
• Maximum tire width: 14.5 inches

Extended vehicles generally have a 2:30 PM check-in deadline.

Vehicles longer than 18 feet may require special arrangements and an additional vehicle space.

Auto Train Car Transport Florida

The Auto Train car transport Florida service is especially useful for people traveling between Florida and Virginia who want to take their own vehicle.

The route operates between Sanford, Florida, and Lorton, Virginia. Instead of driving the entire distance, passengers can check in their vehicle at one terminal, travel overnight by train and collect their vehicle after reaching the other terminal.

This can be useful for:

• Florida vacation trips
• Family travel
• Seasonal residents
• Long-term stays
• Moving between Florida and Virginia
• Travelers who want to avoid a long road trip

The main advantage is that you arrive with your own vehicle rather than having to arrange transportation after reaching your destination.

Can You Put a Car on the Auto Train?

Yes. Eligible cars can be transported on the Auto Train.

However, not every vehicle configuration is accepted. For example, vehicles with dual wheels, gull-wing doors and scissor doors are not accepted under Amtrak's current vehicle requirements. Certain special vehicles may be accepted in limited numbers.

If you have a modified, oversized or unusual vehicle, it is better to check its eligibility before booking.

Auto Train Car Rules

There are several important Auto Train car rules that travelers should understand before arriving at the station.

1. Vehicle Must Be Reserved

Your vehicle should be included when you make your Auto Train reservation.

2. Check-In Is Earlier Than Train Departure

Vehicle check-in begins at 11:30 AM.

Standard and extended vehicles currently need to be checked in by 2:30 PM. Motorcycles, oversized vehicles, trailers and vehicles using Priority Offloading have earlier deadlines.

Do not plan to arrive at the station just before the passenger train departure.

3. You Cannot Access Your Car During the Trip

Once the vehicle is loaded, passengers cannot access it while the train is traveling.

For this reason, pack a separate carry-on bag with everything you need during the journey.

4. Valuable Items Should Not Be Left in the Car

Passengers are responsible for personal belongings left inside their vehicles. Amtrak advises travelers not to leave valuables in their cars.

5. Deactivate the Car Alarm

Before handing over your vehicle, make sure the car alarm is turned off.

An alarm that activates during transportation could potentially drain the vehicle's battery.

Auto Train Car Size Limits

Vehicle dimensions are one of the most important parts of Auto Train eligibility.

For standard and extended vehicles, the current maximum width is 84 inches, including side mirrors. Vehicles wider than this cannot be accommodated under the standard rules.

The length limit is generally:

• Standard vehicle: up to 16 feet
• Extended vehicle: up to 18 feet
• More than 18 feet: special arrangements required

If a vehicle is over 18 feet, Amtrak may require a second vehicle space and additional payment.

Always measure the vehicle with applicable racks or equipment before booking.

Can SUVs Go on the Auto Train?

Yes. Many SUVs can travel on the Auto Train.

Standard SUVs can qualify if they meet the applicable dimensions. Some three-row SUVs may be classified as extended vehicles.

The current maximum height for standard and extended vehicles is 85 inches, while the maximum width is 84 inches including mirrors.

If you own a large SUV, check its exact length, height and width before making the reservation.

Can Trucks Go on the Auto Train?

Yes, certain pickup trucks can be transported on the Auto Train.

Many trucks fall into the extended vehicle category, which allows vehicles up to 18 feet long under the current requirements.

Some larger trucks may exceed the 18-foot limit and require special arrangements.

Because truck dimensions can vary significantly depending on the model, cab configuration and accessories, check the exact vehicle dimensions before booking.

Can Motorcycles Go on the Auto Train?

Yes. Certain two-wheeled motorcycles are accepted on the Auto Train.

The current motorcycle limits include:

• Maximum length: 102 inches
• Maximum height: 72 inches
• Maximum width: 51 inches
• Minimum ground clearance: 5 inches
• Maximum tire width: 7 inches

Motorcycle check-in currently closes at 2:00 PM.

However, some types of three-wheeled motorcycles and other vehicles are prohibited. For example, Can-Am motorcycles, Rewaco trikes and Polaris Slingshots are not permitted under the current rules.

Auto Train Roof Rack Rules

Roof racks have specific requirements.

Factory-installed roof racks are permitted, but they must remain empty during the trip.

Temporary luggage racks and bicycle racks attached to the roof are not permitted.

Any permitted roof-mounted rack counts toward the vehicle's maximum height.

Luggage racks must be removed from the top of the vehicle and stored inside the vehicle before check-in.

Bicycle Rack Rules

Rear-mounted bicycle racks may be permitted under the current Auto Train rules.

However, bicycles cannot be brought onboard the passenger train. If a bicycle is transported on a rear-mounted rack, the traveler must sign the applicable loss or damage waiver. The rack and bicycle also count toward the vehicle's length and width limits.

Can You Leave Luggage in Your Car?

Passengers can place baggage inside their vehicle, but they will not be able to access the vehicle during the journey.

Amtrak does not provide checked baggage service on the Auto Train, so travelers should take the belongings they need overnight with them when they leave the vehicle at check-in.

A good approach is to prepare a small overnight bag before arriving at the station.

Keep items such as:

• Phone and charger
• Identification
• Medication
• Toiletries
• Travel documents
• Change of clothes
• Other overnight essentials

with you rather than inside the vehicle.

What Should You Remove From Your Car?

Before checking in your vehicle, remove anything valuable or anything you will need during the trip.

You should also remove luggage carriers and other prohibited equipment from the vehicle according to the applicable Auto Train requirements.

Amtrak specifically states that temporary luggage racks and bicycle racks attached to the roof are not permitted.

It is also a good idea to inspect the car before handing it over and make a note of its condition.

Auto Train Vehicle Damage

If your vehicle is damaged during loading, unloading or transportation, report the damage to an authorized Amtrak representative before leaving the terminal.

Amtrak states that it can accept responsibility for qualifying damage only when the damage is reported before the passenger leaves the terminal and an Amtrak representative determines that the damage occurred while the vehicle was in Amtrak's custody.

For this reason, inspect your vehicle carefully when you receive it at your destination.

Priority Vehicle Offloading

Travelers who want to get their vehicle sooner after arrival may be able to purchase Priority Vehicle Offloading.

Subject to availability, this option is designed to place the vehicle among the first 30 vehicles unloaded from the train. It can be purchased during booking or, when available, during station check-in.

This can be useful if you have plans shortly after reaching Lorton or Sanford.

Oversized Cars on Auto Train

Vehicles longer than 18 feet are considered oversized and require special arrangements.

Amtrak currently states that an oversized vehicle may require a second vehicle space and additional payment. Reservations for such vehicles need to be arranged through Amtrak rather than being handled like a standard vehicle booking.

If your vehicle is close to the maximum dimensions, measure it carefully before making a reservation.

Auto Train Cars: Important Tips

If you are taking your car on the Auto Train for the first time, these tips can make the process easier:

Arrive early.

Vehicle check-in has firm deadlines and exceptions cannot be made.

Measure your vehicle.

Check the length, height and width, including applicable racks and mirrors.

Keep valuables with you.

Do not leave important or valuable belongings inside the vehicle.

Pack an overnight bag.

You cannot return to your car during the journey.

Turn off the car alarm.

This can help prevent the battery from being drained during transportation.

Check the vehicle after arrival.

Inspect it before leaving the terminal and report any suspected transportation-related damage immediately.

Check special vehicle requirements.

Large trucks, modified vehicles, motorcycles and other unusual vehicles may have different rules.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take my car on the Auto Train?

Yes. Eligible cars can be transported between Lorton, Virginia, and Sanford, Florida, on the Auto Train. Vehicle dimensions and other requirements apply.

How much does it cost to put a car on the Auto Train?

The vehicle charge depends on the travel date, vehicle type and availability. Your passenger fare and vehicle fare are part of the overall Auto Train booking cost.

What is the maximum car size for Auto Train?

A standard vehicle can currently be up to 16 feet long, while an extended vehicle can be up to 18 feet long. Vehicles over 18 feet require special arrangements.

Can I take an SUV on the Auto Train?

Yes. Many SUVs are eligible as long as they meet the applicable size and vehicle requirements.

Can I take a pickup truck on the Auto Train?

Yes, eligible pickup trucks can be transported. Larger trucks may require special arrangements if they exceed the standard length limits.

Can I leave luggage in my car?

You can place baggage inside your vehicle, but you cannot access the vehicle during the journey. It is recommended to take your overnight necessities with you.

Can I access my car while the Auto Train is moving?

No. Passengers do not have access to their vehicles during the journey.

What time should I check in my car?

Vehicle check-in begins at 11:30 AM. Standard and extended vehicles currently have a 2:30 PM deadline, while some other vehicle categories have a 2:00 PM deadline.

Can I take a motorcycle on the Auto Train?

Yes, eligible two-wheeled motorcycles can be transported, subject to the applicable dimensions and check-in requirements.

Can I leave my roof rack on my car?

Factory-installed roof racks can remain on the vehicle but must be empty. Temporary luggage and bicycle racks attached to the roof are not permitted.

What happens if my car is damaged on the Auto Train?

Report any suspected damage to an authorized Amtrak representative before leaving the terminal. Amtrak's responsibility is subject to its applicable vehicle transportation rules.

Taking Your Car on the Auto Train

The Auto Train is a convenient option for travelers who want to take their own vehicle between Florida and Virginia without driving the entire route.

Understanding the Auto Train car rules before your trip can help you avoid problems at check-in. The most important things to check are your vehicle's size, eligibility, check-in deadline and any special equipment attached to the vehicle.

Whether you are transporting a regular car, SUV, pickup truck or motorcycle, confirm the latest requirements before traveling because vehicle policies and check-in procedures can change.