How to Move by Train: Benefits, Costs, and What to Expect

What to Know About Moving by Train

Rail isn’t the most common method for moving household goods, but it can be a good fit in the right situation. Like any mode of transport, it comes with trade-offs. Here’s what to consider before committing to a move by train.

Pros of Moving by Train

• Cost-effective for smaller moves: If you’re not moving an entire house, shipping by train can often be more affordable than full-service movers or even some rental truck options.
• Better for the environment: Trains are significantly more fuel-efficient than trucks or planes, making this one of the most eco-friendly ways to move long-distance.
• Avoids the stress of long-distance driving: Letting the train do the traveling means you can skip the long hours behind the wheel, high gas prices, and wear and tear on your vehicle.
• Scenic and relaxing: If you’re traveling with your belongings, riding the train can be a calm, scenic way to get from one place to another.
• Flexible for mixed shipments: Trains can carry freight and vehicles, which gives you the option to ship heavier items separately while you fly or ride.

Cons of Moving by Train

• Limited station access: Not every city or town has an accessible rail terminal. You may need extra transportation on either end of your journey.
• Takes longer than flying: While cheaper, rail shipments often take more time to arrive. You’ll need to plan around the schedule and potential delays.
• Restricted items and weight limits: There are firm rules on what you can bring, and most freight services limit the weight or size of individual packages.
• May require extra coordination: Unlike a full-service move, you’ll likely need to handle packing, drop-off, pickup, and possibly some heavy lifting on your own.

Who Should Consider Moving by Train?

Train moves aren’t for everyone, but they work especially well for people with smaller shipments and a bit of flexibility. 

Students, solo movers, and anyone relocating with just a few well-packed boxes often find this option appealing. It’s also a great fit for eco-conscious travelers looking to reduce their carbon footprint, or for folks moving between major cities that have freight-capable train stations. 

Some choose to ride the train while their belongings are shipped separately, while others fly or drive and have their items meet them on the other end. If your move is relatively light and you’re open to a little extra coordination, moving by train might be a smart and budget-friendly choice.

Cost Comparison: Train vs. Truck

The cost of a long-distance move depends on how much you’re bringing, how far you’re going, and how much effort you’re willing to put in. Most people use ground-based options like rental trucks, moving containers, or full-service movers. Trains are a less common route, but they can be cost-effective for smaller or mixed moves.

Since we don’t have direct pricing data for train freight services (many are handled by third-party carriers and priced by weight or size), it’s more helpful to compare general effort and cost expectations.

Move Type Overview

Additional Train-Specific Costs

If you’re moving by train, you may want to budget for some extras:

• Passenger Ticket: $100–$300 for a coach seat on most long-distance Amtrak routes
• Vehicle Shipping (Amtrak Auto Train): $300–$700+, depending on size, season, and availability
• Extra Baggage Fees: Around $20–$30 per checked bag beyond the included two

While train travel might not suit large household moves, it can be a smart hybrid option, especially if you’re shipping a few items separately and riding along to your destination. For full move pricing breakdowns, see our guide to The Average Cost to Move Cross-Country.

How Moving by Train Works

There are a few different ways to move your belongings by train, and the right approach depends on what you’re moving and how hands-on you want to be.

Options for Moving by Train

• Traveling with your belongings: If you’re moving solo and packing light, you can book a train ticket and bring your things with you as carry-on or checked baggage. This works well for students or anyone with just a few suitcases and boxes.
• Shipping a freight container or moving pod: For larger loads, you can ship boxes or pallets via freight rail or arrange for a moving container to travel by train. This method is ideal for cross-country moves where you don’t need immediate access to your items.
• Shipping a car: In some regions, you can transport your vehicle by train. This service is more limited but can save mileage, fuel, and wear on your car.

Step-by-Step: How to Move by Train

1. Take inventory of what you’re moving: Make a list of what needs to go. Group items by size and weight so you can determine whether moving by rail is a good fit.
2. Research train shipping services: Look into companies that offer rail freight or container services. If you’re traveling with your belongings, check passenger rail guidelines too.
3. Separate items that can’t go by train: Most rail services have restrictions on perishables, live plants or animals, flammable items, and anything fragile or oversized. Always check the specific policies of your train or freight provider to confirm what’s allowed before you pack.
4. Pack everything securely: Use sturdy boxes, seal everything tightly, and clearly label each package. If you’re using a container, make sure items won’t shift during transit.
5. Arrange drop-off or pickup: Some services allow door-to-door pickup, but in most cases, you’ll drop your items off at a rail terminal. Make sure someone can receive them on the other end, especially if you’re not riding the train yourself.
6. Get items weighed and approved: Once at the station, your boxes or container will be measured and weighed. Be prepared to answer a few questions about what’s inside.
7. Track and confirm delivery: Depending on the service, you may be able to track your shipment in transit. Plan ahead so you or a trusted contact can pick it up on time.

For an even more detailed plan, we have created guides on The Best Ways to Ship Household Goods and How to Efficiently Move Across the Country here.

Shipping a Car by Train

Amtrak’s Auto Train offers a unique option for travelers moving between the Northeast and Florida. It’s the only route in the U.S. that lets you ride with your personal vehicle on board. The service runs nonstop between Lorton, Virginia, and Sanford, Florida, giving you a break from the long drive down I-95.

You can pack your car with trip essentials, and once you arrive, simply drive it off the train and go. It’s a popular option for snowbirds, seasonal movers, and anyone relocating along the East Coast.

To use this service, you’ll need to:

• Reserve early, especially during peak seasons
• Check in between 11:30 am and 2:30 pm on the day of departure
• Ensure your vehicle meets size and clearance limits
• Choose from coach or private room options for the ride

Prices vary depending on the season, availability, and type of accommodations. Amtrak often advertises Auto Train fares starting at $95, but that rate covers a coach seat only. Shipping your vehicle is a separate charge, typically ranging from $300 to $700 or more. If you upgrade to a private room, you’ll also receive meals, added comfort, and extra amenities.

Currently, this is the only consumer train service in the U.S. that allows vehicle transport for personal moves.

What You Can and Can’t Take on a Train

Train travel comes with specific packing rules, especially when you’re using passenger rail services like Amtrak. While each provider has its own policies, here are some general guidelines on what is and isn’t allowed to travel by train:

Commonly Allowed Items (Amtrak passengers):

• Boxes, suitcases, and totes
• Clothing, books, and travel essentials
• Small electronics (Amtrak accepts no liability for damage or loss)
• Food and beverages for personal use during travel

Items You Usually Can’t Bring:

• Live animals or plants, except for service animals and some pet-friendly routes
• Perishables or anything requiring refrigeration (unless carried for personal use)
• Hazardous materials, such as flammable liquids, fuel, or cleaning chemicals
• Oversized or overweight items that exceed Amtrak’s limits (generally 50 lbs or 75 linear inches per bag)
• Furniture, appliances, and household goods: not allowed on Amtrak trains

If you need to transport large items or furniture, you’ll likely need a third-party freight carrier, not a passenger rail service. Always check with your rail provider to confirm what’s allowed for your specific trip.

How to Prepare for a Train Move

Moving by train takes a little more planning than tossing boxes into a truck, but with a few smart steps, it can go smoothly.

• Start by downsizing. Since space and weight are limited, you’ll want to bring only what you truly need. Sell, donate, or store anything you can live without for a while.
• Next, choose your packing materials carefully. Sturdy boxes, hard-shell luggage, and stackable totes tend to hold up best in train transit. Avoid overpacking, especially if your belongings will be moved or handled more than once.
• Label everything clearly with your name, destination, and contact info. If you’re using multiple boxes, number them and keep a list of what’s inside each one. This helps with tracking and unpacking later.
• Pack with security in mind. Wrap fragile items well, seal containers tightly, and use locks or tamper-evident tape if needed. Keep valuables, medications, and important documents with you.

A little extra prep on the front end can make your train move more organized, less stressful, and easier to manage.