Amtrak Check-in Process: Baggage and Auto Train

Unlike airports, Amtrak does not follow the traditional check-in procedure. Passengers can simply arrive at the station, show their ticket, and board the train. However, Amtrak check-in is required for checked luggage, special assistance, and the Auto Train. For Amtrak Auto Train, check-in counters open from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on the day of departure. Although there is no check-in procedure, the passenger should still reach the station at least 30 to 60 minutes early, especially when travelling with luggage.

Do Passengers Need to Check In for Amtrak?

In most cases, there are no formal check-in desks like airports. However, some larger stations and special services may have controlled boarding areas where staff check tickets before passengers board.

Amtrak Check-In and Boarding Procedure

The Amtrak boarding procedures start with ticket booking. Passengers can access their tickets for check-in for Amtrak through the mobile app, email confirmation, paper ticket, or eTicket. 

• Arrive at the station and look at the departure boards for train number, destination, and the specific gate.
• Station staff announce boarding when the train is ready.
• Line up by destination or car assignment.
• Head to the gate, and show the ticket to the gate agent or conductor.
• Finally, board the train.

On many routes, the conductor will scan the ticket once the passenger is already seated and the train is in motion.

Amtrak Check in Baggage 

Not all the Amtrak stations have checked baggage services. Arrive at the station at least 45-60 minutes before departure, drop the luggage at the counter, and collect it at the destination baggage claim area. 

Carry-On Baggage

Passengers can carry 2 personal items and 2 carry-on bags. Bags should be manageable without assistance.

One Free Personal Item: Passengers may bring one personal item weighing up to 25 lbs (12 kg), such as a small bag, backpack, purse, or laptop. These Amtrak baggage check-in items should fit under the seat.

Two Free Carry-On Items: Each passenger may bring two carry-on bags weighing up to 50 lbs (23 kg) each and measuring no more than 28 x 22 x 14 inches, and the bags must fit in the overhead rack or luggage tower and be light enough to be lifted safely.

Checked Baggage

For checked baggage services:

• Four checked bags are allowed, two for free and two more for $20 per bag, each bag weighing no more than 50 lbs (23 kg) and measuring 75 linear inches or less.
• Oversized Amtrak check-in baggage measuring between 75 and 100 linear inches can be checked for $20 per bag.
• All bags should have a visible tag with the passenger’s name and address, and free ID tags are available at all stations.
• Before arriving at the station, luggage should be packed in proper containers and secured with TSA-approved locks or zip ties for safety.
• Checked baggage must be dropped off before the train’s scheduled departure, and check-in times vary by station, so travellers should review station details in advance.
• If transferring between stations, passengers should allow at least two hours of layover time to ensure their luggage is properly transferred.
• If checked baggage is not available on one train or bus in the itinerary, it may be accepted on another service traveling to the same destination, and advance check-in for Amtrak is advised.

Note: Find out how much luggage you can take on an Amtrak train.

Trainside Checked Baggage

Only Columbus, WI, Mount Pleasant, IA, and Winona, MN offer self-serve trainside checked baggage service.

• When departing from one of these stations, passengers must tag their luggage, take it to the baggage car, hand it to an Amtrak crew member, and receive a claim check.
• On arrival, passengers are informed where to collect their luggage and must show their claim check to the crew to receive it.

Amtrak Auto Train Check In

The Amtrak Auto Train check-in process involves the registration of passengers and their vehicles as well. Auto Train operates between Lorton, VA (near Washington, D.C.) and Sanford, FL (near Orlando). Priority Vehicle Offloading for an extra fee is available to ensure the vehicle is among the first 30 unloaded after arrival.

Check-In Vehicle Size Details

Passengers can check in their standard or extended vehicles and two-wheeled vehicles.

Amtrak Auto Train Check-in Time

Vehicle check-in begins at 11:30 am and closes at 2:00 pm for motorcycles, trailers, and vehicles with Priority Offloading on the day of departure. While all other standard and extended vehicles must check in by 2:30 pm, late arrivals are not accepted.

Amtrak Auto Train Check-In and Boarding Process

The Amtrak check-in procedure for Auto Train is simple and easy. The travellers board the passenger train and begin their journey, while the vehicle travels in secure carriers.

• Arrive at the station well before the check-in closes time.
• Show the reservation and ID at the check-in desk.
• Amtrak staff may perform a walk-around inspection of the vehicle.
• The vehicle is loaded onto a special autorack car by an Amtrak crew.

Key Tips for Auto Train Travel

Here are a few tips for Amtrak auto train check-in:

• All vehicles must be checked in before boarding, as vehicles cannot be loaded after check-in closes.
• Reserve vehicle space at the time of booking to guarantee a spot on the Auto Train.
• Vehicles must meet size and clearance requirements to be accepted.
• Oversized vehicles may require special arrangements or additional payment.
• Bring a carry-on bag with essentials since they cannot access their vehicle during the trip.
• Deactivate car alarms before check-in, as alarms going off during transport could drain the vehicle battery.

Wrapping Up!

Usually, there is no standard amtrak check in process. Passengers can arrive shortly before departure, show their ticket, and board the train. However, passengers with luggage and vehicles need to arrive early at the station for check-in procedures.

FAQs-Frequently Asked Questions