Rail Car Shipping

Rail Car Shipping

Compare Rail Car Shipping Rates & Book In Minutes

The most affordable way to ship your vehicle across Canada and the U.S. — when you’re not in a rush, rail delivers unbeatable savings.

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Rail Car Shipping
Rail Car Shipping

What is Rail Service Car Shipping?

Rail service car shipping moves your vehicle securely across long distances using Canada and U.S. railway networks. As the most budget-friendly option when available, your car is loaded onto an open rail car and shipped between terminals, avoiding road congestion and reducing wear and tear.

While rail shipping provides excellent cost savings, it’s important to know that transit times are longer and less predictable compared to terminal-to-terminal or door-to-door services. If you’re flexible with your schedule and looking for the most economical solution, rail is the perfect choice.

Ideal for relocations, long-distance purchases, or seasonal transport, rail shipping keeps costs down while ensuring your vehicle arrives safely at its destination.

How Does Rail Car Shipping Work?

  1. Get an Instant Quote

    Use our car shipping cost calculator to see current rail service rates and availability.

  2. Book Your Shipment

    Select your nearest departure terminal and destination terminal. Our team will confirm availability and scheduling.

  3. Prepare & Drop-Off

    Clean your vehicle, remove valuables, and keep the fuel tank about a quarter full. Drop off your car at the departure terminal for inspection and loading.

  4. Vehicle in Transit

    Your car is securely fastened in an open rail car and begins its journey. Timelines are flexible — expect longer transit compared to truck transport.

  5. Arrival & Pickup

    We’ll notify you when your vehicle arrives at the destination terminal. Complete the final inspection and pick up your vehicle at your convenience.

  1. Get an Instant Quote

    Use our car shipping cost calculator to see current rail service rates and availability.

  2. Book Your Shipment

    Select your nearest departure terminal and destination terminal. Our team will confirm availability and scheduling.

  3. Prepare & Drop-Off

    Clean your vehicle, remove valuables, and keep the fuel tank about a quarter full. Drop off your car at the departure terminal for inspection and loading.

  4. Vehicle in Transit

    Your car is securely fastened in an open rail car and begins its journey. Timelines are flexible — expect longer transit compared to truck transport.

  5. Arrival & Pickup

    We’ll notify you when your vehicle arrives at the destination terminal. Complete the final inspection and pick up your vehicle at your convenience.

Why Choose Rail Car Shipping?

  • Lowest Cost Option: When available, rail shipping is the most affordable method for transporting your vehicle long distances.
  • Reduced Wear & Tear: Avoid the extra mileage and road risks of driving or truck transport.
  • Eco-Friendly Choice: Rail is one of the most environmentally friendly shipping methods available today.
  • Safe & Reliable: While transit times are slower, rail shipping reliably delivers your vehicle to its destination.

If keeping costs low is your priority and you’re not working on a tight timeline, vehicle transport by rail is the smart choice.

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Understanding Rail Shipping Timelines

Rail car shipping offers unbeatable savings, but it does come with flexible timelines. Rail schedules are based on availability and logistics, meaning delivery windows are longer and less predictable than truck transport.

  • ⏳ Expect slower delivery times — rail service is always slower than terminal-to-terminal or door-to-door shipping.
  • 🚛 If your move is time-sensitive, consider our car transport options by truck for faster delivery.
  • 🚂 Rest assured, your vehicle will always arrive safely — just with a longer timeframe.

Need advice on choosing the right service for your timeline? Talk to our team for personalized recommendations.

Contact Us

Rail Terminals Across Canada & the U.S.

We partner with major rail terminals across Canada and the U.S., making affordable rail transport accessible for long-distance routes. Whether you’re shipping from Toronto, Montreal, Calgary, or cross-border to U.S. destinations, our network simplifies the process.

Need Help? Give us a call

Not sure which car shipping option is right for you? Our team is available 24/7 to answer your questions about routes, costs, and delivery times. Give us a call or send us a message — we’re happy to help.

+1 (866) 338-2675team@interlane.com

Frequently Asked
Questions (FAQ)

Let’s get your vehicle shipped!

Let’s get your vehicle shipped!

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