: Major Class I railroads occasionally sell retired equipment. You can contact the purchasing agents of local railroads to inquire about old cars on sidings or items available for bid.

Purchasing a train typically happens through three primary channels:

Buying the train is often the simplest part; the real challenge lies in operation and maintenance.

: Provides listings for everything from "Private Varnish" (luxury passenger cars) to cabooses and locomotives.

: Known as one of the largest brokerages for used railcars, often listing equipment ranging from 40 to 100 years old.