Process for Shipping Bikes via Train: People often relocate to different states for jobs or new homes. Moving between cities can be expensive, making shipping a bike by train a cost-effective and convenient option. However, transporting a bike to another city can be challenging. While the train offers an easy and affordable solution, a lack of awareness regarding the rules often leads people to pay extra fees or fines at the railway station’s parcel office.

It is common to be overcharged for packing services or penalised if petrol remains in the tank during parcel booking. If you plan to ship your bike by train, following a few simple precautions and rules can help you save money. Let’s explore these options in detail.

Pack the bike yourself outside the station.
Vendors outside the parcel office often charge ₹400 to ₹500 for packing. To avoid this extra expense, you can purchase packing materials—such as jute sacks or heavy-duty wrapping—from a local shop and pack the bike securely yourself.

Empty the petrol tank.
For safety reasons, the bike’s fuel tank must be completely empty; not even a drop of petrol should remain. If petrol is found in the tank during inspection, railway officials may impose a heavy fine or refuse to ship the vehicle.

Original documents and ID proof are required.

Keep the vehicle’s Registration Certificate (RC), valid first-party insurance, and your Aadhaar or PAN card handy at the time of booking. If the vehicle is not registered in your name, you must also carry a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the owner.

Visit the parcel office 3 to 4 hours before the train departs.

To avoid last-minute rush and hassle, arrive at the railway parcel office 3 to 4 hours before the scheduled departure of the train. By arriving early, you can complete the paperwork smoothly without any issues or extra charges.