The Amtrak Auto Train is a daily non-stop train service that transports passengers and their vehicles from Lorton, Virginia, to Sanford, Florida. This unique facility transports vehicles like cars, vans, motorcycles, SUVs, jet skis, and other kinds of vehicles. It takes around 17 hours and 29 minutes through the Auto Train from Lorton to Sanford. Auto Train is a good way to avoid the long drive on the interstate, allowing passengers to travel comfortably and avail a wide range of facilities. Through this detailed article, you will get an insight into Amtrak Auto Train routes, stations, addresses, services, amenities, and more.
Amtrak Train Stations Served by the Auto Train
| Routes | Station | Address |
|---|---|---|
| Virginia | Lorton Auto Train Station | 8006 Lorton Road, Lorton, VA 22079 |
| Florida | Sanford Auto Train Station | 600 South Persimmon Avenue, Sanford, FL 32771-2385 |
Amtrak Auto Train Schedule
Here’s the clear breakdown of the Auto Train daily schedule and other related information.
Departure and Arrival Timings:
- Departure: 4:00 pm (daily)
- Arrival: 9:00 am (the next day)
Vehicle Check-in Timings:
- Vehicle Check-in starts at 11:30 am.
- Motorcycle end check-in time: 2:00 pm.
- Standard Vehicle end check-in time: 2:30 pm.
Tips to Consider:
- The Auto Train runs nonstop between its two stations (from Lorton to Sanford).
- Auto Train is a daily service, and its schedule is consistent every day of the year.
- Make sure to check the dimensions and clearance restrictions for your vehicle at the time of booking.
- Arrival times are strictly enforced, and no exceptions are made, so arrive in advance to ensure a smooth check-in process.
- Check-in starts at 11:30 am on the day of departure, and closing times depend on your vehicle type, whether it’s a motorcycle or any other standard vehicle.
- You can speed up your journey with a time-saving upgrade option specially for Auto Train. You can book the Priority Vehicle offloading policy, which promises your vehicle to be among the first 30 offloaded vehicles from the train.
Explore All Amtrak Routes situated across the United States.
How the Auto Train Works?
As the Auto Train provides a unique service, it also works differently, and here are the steps of how it works.
- Book Your Trip: Purchase your ticket on Amtrak’s website www.Amtrak.com, choosing between coach seats or private rooms like roomettes or bedrooms.
- Check in with Your Vehicle; Arrive early at the station and drive your vehicle onto specialized auto-carrier cars, where it will be secured for the rest of the journey.
- Travel Onboard: Board your passenger car and enjoy the amenities, which can include meals, comfortable seating, and entertainment options.
- Arrive and Depart: Wake up the next morning to arrive in Florida or Virginia, where you can drive your vehicle off the train at the destination station, and continue your journey to your destination.
Services and Amenities of the Amtrak Auto Train Route
Here are the services and amenities available at the Amtrak Auto Train.
- Coach Seats and Private Rooms: The Auto Trains feature wide, reclining seats with ample legroom. In these trains, there are no middle seats available for the passengers. There are private rooms, variable which include Roomettes, bedrooms, and family rooms, each with new bedding, linens, and towels.
- Dedicated Attendants: The Auto Trains have dedicated attendants who help passengers with various activities and try to make their travel seamless. Sleeping car attendants assist with luggage, meals, and turndown service in private rooms.
- Food and Beverages: There are various food and beverage options available. You can enjoy a sit-down dining experience with scenic views through large windows. Lounge cars are also available in the Auto Train, where you can relax, meet others, buy snacks, beverages, and other items. Complimentary meals are included for passengers in private rooms and are available for purchase in the Lounge Car.
- Wi-Fi Services: Free Wi-Fi is available for all passengers to stay connected. You can simply browse, do work, and access the internet for several hours. The Wi-Fi is only accessible for low data usage activities and not for live streaming or downloading.
- Station Lounge Access: Passengers with private room accommodations have access to comfortable and luxurious lounges at major Amtrak stations.
- Auto Carrier: The vehicles are transported in enclosed autoracks, which can carry cars, SUVs, vans, and motorcycles. These are safe for all kinds of vehicles.
- Scenery: The Auto train passes through scenic views of rural areas, farms, and towns as the train travels through the Southeast. So your journey will be pleasant and memorable.
- Priority Boarding: Passengers in private rooms receive priority boarding and other special facilities for a smoother start to their journey.
For any inquiry or doubt about Amtrak Routes and Schedules, you can contact Amtrak representatives at (1-800-872-7245) or visit www.Amtrak.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Auto Train is only accessible for two stations from Lorton to Virginia
The Amtrak Auto Train trip is approximately a 17-hour overnight journey that covers roughly 855 miles between Lorton, Virginia, and Sanford, Florida.
Coach customers can purchase meals, snacks, and beverages in the Cross-Country Cafe. Plus, a complimentary continental breakfast is served prior to arrival.
The cost to transport a car on Amtrak’s Auto Train varies depending on the vehicle. Generally, expect to pay around $200 to $650 to transport the vehicle, and the cost of passenger fare can range from $95 for a coach seat to upwards of $400 for a private room.
Plan to arrive at the station at least 30 minutes before your train is scheduled to depart (Auto Train passengers should arrive at the station at least two hours before departure).
Amtrak Auto Train seat assignment depends on availability, and the train car and seat will be assigned at the time of check-in. When you check in, you may ask for a specific seat. If it is available, it will be assigned to you.