Private Railcar Moves

If you own a private railcar, it can be coupled to a few of our trains.

VIA Rail continues to haul private railcars at the tail end of some trains. Excluded are all trains with a panoramic dome car at its tail end, and those trains where it is not technically, economically or operationally feasible to couple a private railcar.

On those routes where service is available, you will enjoy VIA Rail’s impeccable service in the comfort and privacy of your own railcar.

How to proceed

VIA Rail will review the request, and if the movement is feasible, will submit a quote. If the quote is accepted, VIA Rail will then issue a confirmation and a formal agreement, which will require the signature of both parties, prior to the movement.

A Request may be sent up to one hundred and twenty (120) days in advance but no later than fifteen (15) business days prior to the requested first Private Railcar movement date.

Notwithstanding any arrangements made with AMTRAK, VIA Rail must be advised of the Private Railcar movement at the same time as AMTRAK and no later than fifteen (15) business days prior to the scheduled movement.

All Requests received by VIA Rail more than three (3) months in advance will be considered without the current Mechanical Equipment Certification ("MEC") for the duration of the requested trip. The Client shall ensure that a current original MEC certificate is received by VIA Rail no later than twenty (20) days before the first trip. Non-compliance will result in an automatic trip cancellation and application of service charges.

All Requests shall include AMTRAK ID number with complete identification of separate arrangements made with a carrier terminal facility or others.

To discuss a private railcar move, download a request form  (21 KB) or contact:
    Nancy Beaulieu
    Officer, Planning
    (514) 934-7544

For routes where this service is no longer available, VIA Rail invites you to consider leasing VIA’s chartered railcars.