Can You Move By Train? Moving by Train Costs and Options
Here’s the quick answer: Yes, you can technically move by train, and for some people, it’s a practical long-distance option. However, passenger rail systems like Amtrak have significantly limited cargo services, and most people will need to pair train transport with another moving solution.
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Cost and logistics vary, so it’s important to do your homework. Read on to learn how to move by train and check out our moving cost calculator to compare estimates for multiple moving solutions.
Can you move cross-country on a train?
Yes, you can move cross-country by train, but it’s not as straightforward as booking a passenger ticket and checking a few bags.
Most people who “move by train” do so by:
- Booking a passenger ticket: You could book an Amtrak ticket and travel with only luggage
- Containerized freight: Containerized freight or moving pods can be transported by train.
- Car shipping: You can ship a car by rail in limited areas
- Hybrid move: You can combine train travel with a full-service mover or DIY option like PODS.
Trains are built for long distances and can be faster than driving, especially for East Coast routes. However, since Amtrak no longer offers express shipping, you’ll need to get creative with how your belongings make the trip.
Can you move internationally by train?
In some parts of the world, you can move internationally by train. This option is only possible in regions with connected rail systems:
- The United States to Canada: Via Amtrak and partner services
- The United States to Mexico: Cargo shipping by rail is possible with logistics providers
- Within Europe: European trains make international moves much more accessible
That being said, you can’t move overseas (like to Japan or Australia) by train, and shipping household goods internationally will usually require a container ship or air freight.
Moving companies to help you move by train
Since you can’t move most household goods by train alone, your best bet is to combine rail travel with professional moving services. Here are a few top-rated moving companies to consider:
American Van Lines
rating
4.5 / 5
89% of users select this mover
American Van Lines was established in the 90s, eventually expanding into a full-service moving company in all states. American Van Lines provides a wealth of useful services that take the sting out of moving day.
AVL provides a range of benefits such as loading, unloading, packing, unpacking, and professional driving. They also offer storage options and assembly upon arrival. American Van Lines is cost-effective and uses less fuel, regularly topping favorite lists: we’re no different.
U-Pack
rating
5 / 5
89% of users select this mover
Do you ever wonder how customizable you can get with your move? U-Pack is the answer to your problems, providing a moving container service at an attractive cost.
U-Pack provides a moving container straight to your home, which you can fill with all your belongings. This moving container also doubles as a storage space for three months.
The downside? You have to do all the packing, moving, and assembly yourself. U-Pack might intimidate new movers, while experienced DIY movers will find their services a breeze.
Shipping a car by train
Technically, you can ship a car by train, but only on limited routes. Here’s how.
Amtrak’s Auto Train
Currently, the only consumer rail car transport in the U.S. is Amtrak’s Auto Train, which runs between Lorton, VA (near Washington, D.C.) and Sanford, FL (near Orlando).
It’s a popular choice for snowbirds and East Coast travelers who want to skip the drive. You can bring your car (and yourself), but only on this single route.
Moving elsewhere? Check out our list of the best car shipping companies for open or enclosed carriers, door-to-door or terminal-to-terminal delivery, and cross-country options.
You can also explore our list of the best moving companies that move cars and furniture if you need to bring your vehicle with you.
How long does it take to move by train?
Cross-country moves by train are faster than by truck. It usually takes about seven to ten days to move from the West Coast to the East Coast.
However, the actual length of your move might be longer once you include details like:
- Packing
- Labeling
- Selling unwanted items
- Disassembly
- Transport
Taking all of the above features into account, you should take at least three to five weeks to plan out the course of your move by rail car.
How much does it cost to move belongings by train?
The cost of moving belongings by train depends on size and weight. Some services, such as Amtrak, offer a flat fee rate. Budgeting is one area you shouldn’t do at the last second.
Costs depend heavily on how much you’re moving, how far, and what combination of services you use. Since Amtrak Express Shipping is no longer available, you’ll likely pay for:
- Passenger ticket for yourself: $100–$300+
- Moving container (U-Pack, PODS): ~$2,000–$5,000 cross-country
- Car shipped by train (Auto Train): $300–$500+
- Full-service mover: $2,500–$8,000+ (depending on size and distance)
Pro tip: Use our moving cost calculator to get personalized estimates for all your options.
How much luggage can you bring on a train?
You can estimate your items based on weight. All trains will have weight limits for your luggage, with most breaking up shipments heavier than five hundred pounds. If you’re riding Amtrak, their policy allows:
- 2 carry-on bags: Up to 50 lbs each
- 2 checked bags Up to 50 lbs each
- Additional bags: For a fee, which varies by station
This isn’t nearly enough for a full apartment move, but it works well for personal items or supplementing a container move.
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What happened to Amtrak Express Shipping?
As of October 1, 2020, Amtrak Express Shipping has been indefinitely suspended. This means:
- You can no longer ship boxes, electronics, or furniture via Amtrak
- No new bookings are allowed
- There is no announced return date for the service
We’ve preserved the original guidance below for reference only.
What Amtrak used to allow:
- Boxes up to 3’ x 3’ x 3’
- No electronics or fragile items
- Labeling required with name, address, phone number
- $67 per 100 lbs, $0.57/lb after that
Since this service is no longer available, you’ll need to work with a freight shipper or moving company instead.
Final thoughts: Is moving by train worth it?
Yes, with the right setup. Moving by train can be a low-stress, scenic, and affordable part of a long-distance move, but it won’t work on its own unless you’re traveling very light.
Instead, consider combining train travel for yourself with:
- A moving container for your stuff
- A professional mover for convenience
- A car shipping service for your vehicle
Whatever method you choose, make sure to plan ahead, label everything clearly, and check for any restrictions or service limitations.
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