Shipping an RV by Train

Shipping an RV by train is not broadly available to individual owners across the United States for ordinary one-off moves. Amtrak’s Auto Train is the main consumer service carrying private vehicles, and it runs only between Lorton, Virginia, and Sanford, Florida; the passenger travels with the vehicle. Freight rail primarily moves vehicles at commercial scale for manufacturers and distribution networks. A compact campervan may qualify, but most motorhomes, fifth wheels, and travel trailers need professional truck transport.

Amtrak accepts standard vehicles up to 16 feet long and extended vehicles up to 18 feet long, 85 inches high, and 84 inches wide, including mirrors. Vehicles over 18 feet require special arrangements and a second vehicle space, while anything wider than 84 inches cannot be accommodated. These limits rule out most Class A and Class C motorhomes, fifth wheels, and travel trailers. Some Class B campervans may fit, but measure the complete vehicle, including mirrors, racks, and roof equipment, before booking.

As of August 6, 2026, an Auto Train trip for an eligible campervan generally costs about $350 to $750 one way for one coach passenger and the vehicle. The fare changes with the travel date, vehicle category, accommodation, and optional priority unloading; a private room can raise the total substantially. This is not a nationwide RV-by-rail rate because most full-size RVs do not fit the Auto Train. For larger units, use current RV shipping cost-per-mile guidance to compare ground options.

Shipping an eligible RV-sized vehicle on Amtrak’s Auto Train has a scheduled travel time of 17 hours 29 minutes between Lorton and Sanford. Vehicle check-in closes at 2:00 p.m. for oversized vehicles, motorcycles, trailers, and priority-offload bookings, and at 2:30 p.m. for standard and extended vehicles. Loading and unloading add terminal time, and Amtrak does not provide pickup or final delivery. This timeframe applies only to the Virginia-Florida route, not to nationwide RV transport.

For most RV moves, the best method is professional truck transport matched to the RV type and operating condition. Drive-away service suits operable motorhomes when added odometer miles are acceptable. Tow-away service uses a qualified truck for travel trailers and fifth wheels, while flatbed or lowboy transport handles non-running, damaged, or unusually large units. Door-to-door service also avoids rail terminals and the Auto Train’s fixed corridor. A1’s RV transport service explains the principal ground methods and equipment requirements.

Professional RV transport is safest when the assigned motor carrier has active operating authority and suitable cargo coverage for the unit being moved. Verify its USDOT and MC numbers through FMCSA, then request the insurance certificate and read the cargo limit, deductible, and exclusions. Photograph the exterior, roof equipment, and interior before pickup, and record existing damage on the bill of lading. A broker arranges transportation; any damage claim depends on the assigned carrier’s policy and contract. Review A1’s auto transport insurance guide.

Leave personal belongings out of the RV unless the carrier gives written permission and explains the allowed weight and coverage limits. Amtrak states that personal effects left in a vehicle remain the owner’s responsibility, and passengers cannot access the vehicle during the trip. For ground transport, ask whether the cargo policy covers any permitted contents. Remove valuables, secure built-in furnishings, close slide-outs and awnings, and photograph the interior before pickup. Owners of towable units can review A1’s travel trailer shipping guidance before loading.