Having a bike offers unparalleled convenience and freedom. However, riding your bike on long trips is not feasible, especially if you're moving to a new city or travelling far for an extended holiday. In such cases, transporting your bike by train becomes a practical option.
In this blog, we will answer all your queries on how to transfer bike by train efficiently for a hassle-free experience.
Transporting your two-wheeler via Indian Railways
Indian Railways offers two convenient methods for transporting your two-wheeler across the country. It accommodates both accompanied and unaccompanied travel methods. Let us take a closer look at how to transport bike by train.
- Sending your bike as a parcel
The parcel service is ideal if you're sending your bike separately without travelling alongside it. Read these steps to know how to parcel bike in train:
- Documentation: Photocopy of your bike's registration certificate and a government-issued ID.
- Preparation: Drain the petrol tank completely and pack the bike securely.
- Labelling: Mark your bike with the origin and destination names.
- Forwarding note: Fill out a forwarding note detailing the bike's make, model, registration number, weight, and estimated value.
- Payment and receipt: The fees will depend on the bike's weight and travel distance. Once you pay the amount, you'll receive a receipt to track the shipment.
- Registering your bike as luggage
If you prefer travelling along with your bike, you can register it as luggage. Here's the process:
- Check-in early: Arrive at the station at least 2-3 hours before to complete the registration process.
- Pack and label: Follow the same guidelines for packing and labelling as you would for the parcel service.
- Registration and fees: Show your train ticket at the luggage office to register your bike. Pay fees based on the bike's weight and the travel distance. You will receive a luggage receipt after payment.
- Collection: Present your luggage receipt and claim your bike upon arrival within 48 hours to avoid additional storage charges.
Documents required for bike transport by train
Here is a detailed list of the documents required:
- Bike registration certificate (RC): This is your proof of ownership.
- Valid government ID proof: Government-issued ID such as an Aadhaar card, passport, or voter ID to verify your identity.
- Insurance paper: A valid insurance document to protect your bike during transit.
- Receipt of booking: To confirm your transport booking with the railways.
- Pollution under control (PUC) certificate
- Photographs of the bike
Rules and safety tips regarding bike transport by train
Let us understand the rules you need to follow while transporting your bike by train:
- Booking: It is crucial to book your bike's transport in advance to secure space.
- Packing: Use bubble wrap or suitable packing material.
- Documentation: Carry all required documents to avoid any delays or legal hassles.
- Insurance: Opt for transit insurance to cover any potential damages.
Various bike transportation charges by train
The charges may vary based on several factors, such as the distance travelled, the type of train, and the weight of your bike. Here is a detailed list:
- Base transport charge: ₹300 to ₹2,000, depending on the distance or train type.
- Service charge: ₹50 to ₹200 for bike handling and paperwork at the station.
- Packaging charge: ₹100 to ₹300 to secure the bike during transit.
- Insurance charge: It can vary depending on the value of your bike and its location. If the declared value of the motorcycle exceeds ₹10,000, an additional 1% of the excess value is charged as insurance.
- GST (Goods and Services Tax): Typically charged at 5% on the total freight for bike transportation.
- Extra charges for heavy bikes: Heavier bikes, such as cruisers, may incur additional fees ranging from ₹500 to ₹1,500.
- Interstate transport surcharge: An additional surcharge will apply for interstate transport ranging from ₹300 to ₹1,000, depending on the location.
Note: These charges are approximate and may vary depending on the specific railway zone, type of train, and exact distance travelled. Always confirm with the railway authorities before booking.
Safety tips to ensure before transporting a bike
Here are some important tips to ensure the safety of your bike:
- Clean the motorcycle: Dirt or grime can cause more than just cosmetic damage. They can obscure important labels or seals.
- Check condition: Verify that all parts are secure and the bike is in good operational condition.
- Secure accessories: Remove any accessories that could be lost or damaged.
- Track your transport: Keep a tab on your bike's transport status through the railway's parcel service.
Conclusion
Transporting your bike by train offers a reliable and cost-effective solution for long-distance moves. It is important to know how to send bike in train and understand the process to make sure your motorcycle reaches its destination safely and without damage.
However, it is essential to take precautionary measures to ensure your bike's protection during transport. Invest in comprehensive two wheeler insurance, which safeguards against potential damages or losses and financially aids against any unexpected incidents.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the Insurance industry and products. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.