Transporting a motorcycle from one city to another can be expensive if you choose private logistics services. Fortunately, the bike parcel service offered by Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation and Indian Railways provides an affordable and reliable solution for bike transportation across India.
Whether you are relocating, moving for work, or sending a bike to a family member, railway parcel services allow you to ship your two-wheeler safely to almost any city in the country.
In this blog, we will explain everything you need to know about IRCTC bike parcel service, including charges, booking process, documents required, and safety tips.
What is IRCTC Bike Parcel Service?
IRCTC bike parcel service allows individuals to transport their motorcycles and scooters through Indian Railways parcel trains. The bike is transported in the parcel or luggage compartment of a train and delivered to the destination railway station.
This service is commonly used for:
Intercity relocation
Student transfers
Job transfers
Sending vehicles to family members
Long-distance travel
Because of the vast railway network in India, this service is available in thousands of railway stations across the country.
Two Ways to Send a Bike by Train
There are two primary ways to transport your motorcycle through Indian Railways.
1. Bike as Parcel Service
In the parcel service option, your bike is transported in the parcel van of a train.
Features:
You do not need to travel with the bike
The bike is booked at the parcel office
Delivery is done at the destination parcel office
This is the most popular method for bike transportation by train.
2. Bike as Luggage
In this option, you must travel on the same train as your motorcycle.
Features:
You must have a confirmed train ticket
The bike travels in the luggage compartment
Charges are slightly cheaper than parcel booking
This option is useful when you are personally traveling to the destination city.
IRCTC Bike Parcel Charges
The cost of sending a bike by train depends on several factors.
Major factors affecting the cost
Distance between cities
Weight of the motorcycle
Parcel or luggage booking
Packaging charges
Insurance (optional)
Estimated Railway Bike Parcel Charges
| Distance | Estimated Charges |
|---|---|
| 200–500 km | ₹1200 – ₹2000 |
| 500–1000 km | ₹2000 – ₹3500 |
| 1000–1500 km | ₹3000 – ₹4500 |
| 1500+ km | ₹4000 – ₹6000 |
Additional charges may include packaging and handling fees.
Documents Required for IRCTC Bike Parcel
Before booking your bike parcel, you must carry the following documents.
Required documents include:
Bike RC (Registration Certificate)
Government ID proof
Photocopies of documents
Train ticket (for luggage booking)
These documents are required for verification at the railway parcel office.
Step-by-Step Process to Send a Bike Through IRCTC
Follow these steps to transport your motorcycle through Indian Railways.
1. Visit the Railway Parcel Office
Go to the parcel booking office at your nearest railway station.
2. Drain the Fuel Tank
Railway rules require that the fuel tank must be almost empty before transportation for safety reasons.
3. Pack the Bike Properly
The bike must be packed using protective materials such as:
Bubble wrap
Jute covering
Cardboard protection
Packaging is usually done near the railway parcel office.
4. Fill the Parcel Booking Form
Provide details such as:
Sender name
Receiver name
Destination station
Bike details
5. Pay the Parcel Charges
The parcel officer will weigh the bike and calculate the transportation cost.
After payment, you will receive a parcel receipt.
6. Collect the Bike at Destination
The receiver must show:
Parcel receipt
Identity proof
to collect the motorcycle from the destination parcel office.
Advantages of IRCTC Bike Parcel Service
Using railway parcel services offers several benefits.
Affordable Transportation
Railway transport is often cheaper than private bike transport companies.
Wide Network
The railway network connects almost every major city in India.
Safe Delivery
With proper packaging, motorcycles can be transported safely.
Reliable Service
Trains run regularly across the country, ensuring dependable delivery.
Tips for Safe Bike Transportation by Train
To ensure smooth transportation, follow these tips:
Take photos of the bike before shipping
Remove loose accessories
Lock the handle properly
Keep the parcel receipt safely
Use proper packaging
These precautions help avoid damage during transport.
Conclusion
The IRCTC bike parcel service is one of the most affordable and reliable ways to transport motorcycles across India. Managed through the extensive network of Indian Railways, this service allows people to ship their bikes conveniently between cities.
By following the correct booking process, carrying the necessary documents, and ensuring proper packaging, you can transport your bike safely through the railway parcel system.
Whether you are moving to a new city or sending a motorcycle to someone else, IRCTC bike parcel services provide a simple and cost-effective transportation solution.
FAQs – IRCTC Bike Parcel Service
1. Can I book a bike parcel online through IRCTC?
Currently, bike parcel booking is usually done offline at the railway parcel office.
2. How long does bike parcel delivery take?
Delivery usually takes 2 to 7 days, depending on the distance and train schedule.
3. Is packaging mandatory for railway bike parcel?
Yes, packaging is required to protect the bike during transportation.
4. Can scooters be transported through railway parcel services?
Yes, both scooters and motorcycles can be sent through railway parcel service.
5. Is insurance required for bike parcel?
Insurance is optional but recommended for expensive motorcycles.