You will not be able to get to your auto until it is unloaded 900 miles away, so be sure to take from your car any items, including medications, that you may need while on-board. The placard placed on your car has a claim number by which your auto will be identified when it is unloaded at your destination. Luggage and any loose change remaining in your car should be locked in the trunk. Amtrak is careful of the way they handle the autos. You will be asked which dinner seating you prefer and will be given a coupon for dinner.
Families tend towards the earlier seatings.
The Sanford Auto Train station isn't particularly elaborate, dating as it does to the original, private Auto Train begun in the early 1970s. There's a small gift shop and snack bar with some tables to eat and relax at away from the general activity of the main waiting room. There are children's playgrounds at both stations. Outside the waiting room are the tracks where you will find the cars of the train set out for boarding. Off to the side and rear are a number of tracks where Amtrak employees load your car onto the auto carriers.