Train Parcel Service: Want to Send a Bike or Scooter by Train? Get All the Answers Here

Sending your bike or scooter by train in India can be one of the most cost-effective and reliable ways to transport your two-wheeler across long distances. Whether you’re relocating, selling your vehicle, or simply traveling, Indian Railways offers a convenient parcel service that ensures your vehicle reaches its destination safely.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about using the Train Parcel Service for your bike or scooter. We’ll walk you through the step-by-step process, required documents, charges, packing tips, additional services, pros and cons, and more. By the end of this article, you’ll be confident and ready to ship your two-wheeler by train without any stress.

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Understanding Train Parcel Service Options

Indian Railways offers two primary options for transporting two-wheelers:

1. As Luggage

If you’re traveling on the same train, you can book your scooter or bike as luggage. This option ensures the vehicle travels with you, and you can collect it immediately upon arrival.

2. As Parcel

If you’re not traveling yourself, your bike or scooter can still be sent through the parcel option. The vehicle will be loaded onto a cargo coach and shipped to the destination station, where it can be collected later.

How to Send a Bike or Scooter by Train

Step 1: Prepare Your Vehicle

Empty the fuel tank completely. Vehicles with fuel may be rejected for safety reasons.
Clean the bike and remove any loose or fragile accessories.

Step 2: Get the Required Documents

Copy of the Registration Certificate (RC)
Valid ID proof (Aadhaar card, PAN, driver’s license, etc.)
Journey ticket (for luggage booking)

Step 3: Visit the Parcel or Luggage Office

For luggage: Arrive 2-3 hours before train departure.
For parcel: Visit the parcel office between 9 AM and 5 PM on working days.

Step 4: Get Your Bike Packed

Use a professional packing service or get it done at the railway station.
Label the package with FROM and TO addresses, your name, and contact number.

Step 5: Book the Parcel/Luggage

Fill out the forwarding note/form.
Submit required documents.
Pay the applicable fee based on weight and distance.

Step 6: Collect Your Vehicle

Once your bike arrives, bring your parcel receipt and ID proof.
Make sure to arrive within a day to avoid demurrage charges.

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Charges and Costs

Parcel charges vary by:

Distance: The farther the destination, the higher the fee.
Weight: Most bikes fall within the 100-150 kg bracket.
Service Type: Parcel service can be slightly cheaper than luggage.

Average Cost Range: Rs. 1,200 to Rs. 5,000

You can use the official parcel rate calculator on the Indian Railways Parcel Site for more accurate pricing.

Optional Services You Can Avail

Insurance Coverage: Third-party insurance for added protection during transit.
Professional Packing: Available at most major railway stations.
Door Pickup & Delivery (Private Providers): Companies like GATI, DTDC, and India Post sometimes provide integrated rail courier services.

Safety Tips for Transporting Your Bike

Always use good-quality packing materials to avoid scratches or dents.
Do not leave any fuel in the tank. It is a major safety violation.
Take photographs of your bike before and after packing as proof of condition.
Keep the original documents with you, not with the vehicle.
Double-check labels and documentation before handing over.

Real-Life Example

Ravi from Pune recently moved to Delhi for a new job. Instead of riding his bike all the way, he chose to send it through Indian Railways as a parcel. The process cost him Rs. 1,800 and took 3 days. He collected his bike from the Delhi station with minimal hassle.