Trains.com Insider Interview | Rapido Trains Inc. Founder and CEO Jason Shron visits with Trains.com Director David Popp to discuss the impact U.S.-Canada tariffs have on Rapido operations, along with the loyal customers who have helped sustain the business for more than 20 years.
In the simplest terms, Jason shares how the model train manufacturer (of Canadian origins) addresses the current trade disposition in effort keep its N and HO scale products — plus, UK trains, books, and merchandise — arriving on both sides of the international border. Plus, the conversation also extends to numerous other exciting initiatives spinning up for Rapido Trains, Jason’s growing collection of 1:1 historic VIA Rail Canada equipment, and much more!
More about Jason Shron and Rapido Trains Inc.
Want to know even more about Jason Shron? Read additional Q&As related to Jason’s modeling efforts, and a closer study of his VIA Rail Canada-inspired HO scale layout. Even more, you can find a special peek into Rapido Trains Inc operations, plus a look at their collection of 1:1 scale railroad equipment!
Up date for conductor’s club pre ordered HO Challenger U.P.
This weekend I received an email form BLI stating the ship will arrive on west coast on April 8, 2025. BLI’s warehouse should receive our conductor’s club HO Challenger in 3 to 5 days or April 11-13. BLI will start shipping orders as soon as possible.
Bill
Rapido may have started by manufacturing and offering Canadian models, but, as a modeler of railroads only in the southeastern U.S., they’ve come through with a number of models that fit my interests, including three Seaboard System B36-7s; an Aberdeen, Carolina & Western Ry. GP38, an Amtrak E8A, an Amtrak F40PH, a V&O C30-7, a C&O RDC, and an American Freedom Train PA-1. Thanks to Jason and the whole Rapido team!
I purchased a very nice GE 44-ton switcher from Rapido. After several months of delay beyond the advertised date and then the promised delivery date, it finally arrived marked “Made in China”. “Canadian manufacturer”? I think not.
Hi Dave: Last May 2024 I signed up for conductor’s club and pre ordered a HO Challenger U.P. At first it was to be delivered late December 2024. I was notified last fall it was delayed until mid to late March. As of today March 27, 2025 no word when it will be delivered.
Looks like my order is being delayed by tariffs. I’m taking Jason’s advice and going to wait and see if my order starts moving when tariffs change.
Thanks for the video, it helps to see how the industry works.
Bill