To ship a car by rail in Canada, you drop the vehicle at a rail terminal (or have it picked up), it travels across the country by train, and you collect it at the terminal nearest your destination or have it delivered to your door. Whether you are moving, buying, selling or simply need your vehicle across Canada or into the United States, rail is one of the most cost-effective ways to do it, and one of the safest ways to make sure the vehicle arrives in excellent condition.
How it works when you ship a car by rail in Canada
Canada’s rail network links the major cities from coast to coast, and vehicles ride on that network either in enclosed auto rack railcars or loaded into containers on intermodal trains. A typical move looks like this:
- Booking. You give us the vehicle details, origin, destination and your preferred dates.
- Pickup or drop-off. You drop the car at the origin terminal, or we arrange a truck to collect it from your home.
- Inspection. The vehicle’s condition is recorded before loading.
- Line haul by rail. The car travels by train to the destination terminal.
- Delivery. You collect the vehicle at the terminal, or it is trucked the final distance to your address.
Because we work with an extensive network of carriers, we can compare rail options and get good rates, and handle the details so you do not have to organize each leg yourself. Learn more about our rail freight services.
Terminals and door-to-door options
Rail moves between terminals, which are located in or near the larger cities such as Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Winnipeg, Toronto and Montreal. If you live near one of them, terminal-to-terminal service is usually the most economical choice. If you are farther away, a truck can bridge the gap at either end. The convenience of pickup and drop-off at set locations means you can choose direct transportation or a more flexible, lower-cost arrangement.
What affects the timeline
Rail is reliable, but it is not usually the fastest option. How long it takes depends on:
- Distance and route. Coast-to-coast moves take longer than a run between neighbouring provinces.
- Departure schedules. Vehicles wait at the terminal for the next train or until enough cars are booked to fill a railcar or container.
- First and last mile. Truck pickup and delivery add time at each end.
- Season and weather. Winter conditions and peak moving months can slow things down.
How to prepare your vehicle
- Wash the car and take dated photos of every side so its condition is documented.
- Remove personal belongings, loose items and toll transponders. Carriers generally do not allow household goods inside the vehicle.
- Leave the fuel tank around a quarter full or less.
- Check for leaks, and make sure the battery is charged and the car starts, steers and brakes.
- Note any modifications, low ground clearance or oversized tires when you book.
- Have your ownership and registration ready, plus a spare key for the carrier.
Should you ship a car by rail in Canada or by truck?
Both options get your car across the country. Rail is generally more economical over long distances and keeps kilometres and road wear off the vehicle, especially in enclosed railcars or containers. Truck transport offers more flexibility, true door-to-door service to smaller towns and often a faster schedule. For a cross-country move between major cities, rail is often the better value. For tight deadlines or remote addresses, a truck may suit you better. Our Canadian car shipping page covers both.
Frequently asked questions
Is shipping a car by rail cheaper than driving it?
Often, once you add fuel, hotels, meals, time off work and wear on the car. Rail shipping is one of the most cost-effective ways to move a vehicle long distances.
Can I pack belongings in my car?
Generally no. Carriers ask for an empty vehicle apart from standard items such as a spare tire and jack. Ship your belongings separately.
Can you ship my car to the United States by rail?
Yes, rail and truck options are available across North America. Cross-border moves need export and import paperwork, so allow extra time.
Do I need to be there at pickup and delivery?
You or someone you authorize should be there to sign the inspection report and hand over or receive the keys.
World Cargo has been in business since 2008, with a team that has more than 35 years of combined experience. To ship a car by rail in Canada, call 604-305-0337 (toll free 1-866-610-1808) or request a quote.
