The Amtrak Auto Train provides a unique service in the United States, transporting passengers and their vehicles (including cars, vans, SUVs, and motorcycles) between Lorton, Virginia (near Washington, D.C.) and Sanford, Florida (near Orlando). This eliminates the need for passengers to drive the approximately 855-mile distance themselves. The service operates as a scheduled passenger train with dedicated autorack cars for vehicle transport.
Route and Stations
The Auto Train operates non-stop for passengers between two dedicated stations:
- Lorton, Virginia (LOR): Located south of Washington, D.C., serving the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions.
- Sanford, Florida (SFA): Located north of Orlando, serving Central Florida and points south.
Operational Schedule
The Auto Train operates daily in both directions:
- Southbound: Designated as Train 53 (Lorton to Sanford)
- Northbound: Designated as Train 52 (Sanford to Lorton)
Scheduled Timings
Schedules are subject to change. Always verify current timings directly with Amtrak before travel.
Southbound Service (Train 53: Lorton, VA to Sanford, FL)
- Vehicle Check-in: Opens at 11:30 AM ET. All vehicles must be checked in by 3:00 PM ET. Strict deadlines apply. Priority offloading vehicles have an earlier cut-off time, typically 2:30 PM ET (verify when booking).
- Passenger Boarding: Generally begins around 3:00 PM ET.
- Scheduled Departure (Lorton, VA – LOR): 5:00 PM ET
- Scheduled Arrival (Sanford, FL – SFA): 10:00 AM ET (Next Day)
- Approximate Duration: 17 hours
Northbound Service (Train 52: Sanford, FL to Lorton, VA)
- Vehicle Check-in: Opens at 11:30 AM ET. All vehicles must be checked in by 3:00 PM ET. Strict deadlines apply. Priority offloading vehicles have an earlier cut-off time, typically 2:30 PM ET (verify when booking).
- Passenger Boarding: Generally begins around 3:00 PM ET.
- Scheduled Departure (Sanford, FL – SFA): 5:00 PM ET
- Scheduled Arrival (Lorton, VA – LOR): 10:00 AM ET (Next Day)
- Approximate Duration: 17 hours
Important Considerations
- Vehicle Check-in Deadline: The vehicle check-in deadline (currently 3:00 PM ET) is strictly enforced. Late arrivals cannot be accommodated on the scheduled departure. It is highly recommended to arrive well in advance of the cut-off time.
- Vehicle Requirements: Specific size and ground clearance restrictions apply to vehicles. Check Amtrak’s requirements before booking. Motorcycles require specific handling procedures.
- Passenger Travel: Passengers travel in coach seats or private room accommodations aboard the train’s Superliner passenger cars. Fares include dinner and a continental breakfast.
- Schedule Verification: The times listed above are standard but can be affected by track work, weather, or other operational factors. Passengers must confirm their specific train schedule and check-in times via the official Amtrak website (Amtrak.com), the Amtrak mobile app, or by contacting Amtrak customer service prior to their travel date.
- Non-Stop Service: While the train may make brief operational stops, passengers cannot board or detrain at any location other than Lorton, VA, and Sanford, FL.
- Vehicle Unloading: Upon arrival, vehicle unloading commences. The time required for unloading varies depending on the number of vehicles and their position within the autorack cars. Priority Offloading service is available for an additional fee to expedite this process.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the Amtrak Auto Train?
The Amtrak Auto Train is a unique rail service that transports passengers and their vehicles (cars, vans, SUVs, motorcycles) between Lorton, Virginia (near Washington, D.C.) and Sanford, Florida (near Orlando).
Where does the Auto Train operate between?
The Auto Train runs exclusively between two stations: Lorton, Virginia (LOR) and Sanford, Florida (SFA).
How often does the Auto Train run?
The Auto Train operates daily in both directions (northbound from Sanford to Lorton, and southbound from Lorton to Sanford).
What are the scheduled departure and arrival times?
- Southbound (Train 53): Departs Lorton, VA (LOR) at 5:00 PM ET, arrives Sanford, FL (SFA) at 10:00 AM ET the next day.
- Northbound (Train 52): Departs Sanford, FL (SFA) at 5:00 PM ET, arrives Lorton, VA (LOR) at 10:00 AM ET the next day.
- Note: These are standard times. Always confirm the schedule for your specific travel date directly with Amtrak as times can change.
When do I need to check my vehicle in?
Vehicle check-in at both Lorton and Sanford stations opens at 11:30 AM ET. The strict deadline for checking in standard vehicles is 3:00 PM ET. Missing this deadline means your vehicle cannot be loaded onto the train for that day’s departure. Priority vehicle check-in often has an earlier deadline (typically 2:30 PM ET – verify when booking).
Can I arrive just before the train departs with my vehicle?
No. You must adhere to the vehicle check-in window (11:30 AM – 3:00 PM ET). Vehicles cannot be accepted after the 3:00 PM ET cut-off time. Arrive early.
When does passenger boarding begin?
Passenger boarding typically begins around 3:00 PM ET, after the vehicle check-in deadline has passed.
How long is the train journey?
The approximate travel time for the Auto Train is 17 hours.
Can I use the Auto Train for only part of the journey or get off at other stops?
No. The Auto Train offers non-stop passenger service between Lorton, VA, and Sanford, FL only. Passengers cannot board or disembark at any intermediate point.
Are all types of vehicles allowed on the Auto Train?
Most standard cars, vans, SUVs, and motorcycles are permitted. However, specific size restrictions (height, length, ground clearance) apply. Extended vehicles, roof racks, and modifications may affect eligibility. It is essential to check Amtrak’s vehicle requirements before booking.
How long does it take to get my vehicle after the train arrives?
Vehicle unloading begins shortly after the train arrives at the destination station. The time it takes to receive your vehicle can vary depending on its position in the autorack cars. Amtrak offers a Priority Offloading service for an additional fee, which ensures your vehicle is among the first to be unloaded.
Is food included in the Auto Train ticket?
Yes, passenger fares typically include dinner service and a continental breakfast.