Updated on - 30 Dec 2025
Transporting a bike from one city to another can feel tedious, but Indian Railways makes the process simple, safe and affordable. Every year, thousands of people send their bikes by train for relocations, college admissions, work transfers or long trips. Since the service is available across most major railway stations, it’s often cheaper and more convenient. You can book your bike as luggage if you’re travelling on the same train or send it as a parcel if you’re not.
With the right documents, proper packing and a bit of preparation, your bike can be transported smoothly over long distances.
Here’s a guide to help you send your bike by train the right way.
Different ways of bike transportation in India
You can move your bike either by road or by rail. If you choose Indian Railways, there are two ways to send your bike:
1. Transporting your bike as luggage
You can book your bike as luggage if you are travelling on the same train. In this case, the bike is loaded onto the train along with passenger luggage and handed over to you at the destination.
Key points:
- You must reach the luggage office at least 45–60 minutes before the train’s departure (timing may vary by station).
- Carry your train ticket, bike documents and ID proof.
- Your bike will be loaded into the luggage van and transported to your destination station.
- After you arrive, you can collect your bike from the luggage office by presenting your luggage ticket and ID.
2. Transporting your bike as a parcel
If you are not travelling yourself, you can send your bike as a parcel. This is one of the most affordable and widely used methods for long-distance bike transport.
Key points:
- You do not need to travel with your bike.
- The bike is packed, booked at the parcel office and shipped to the destination station.
- Delivery generally takes 2–7 days, depending on train schedules and parcel movement.
- You can collect the bike from the destination parcel office by showing your Parcel Way Bill (receipt) and ID.
How do you book a bike parcel on the train?
Here’s a step-by-step guide to booking your bike as a parcel:
- Visit the parcel office: Go to the parcel office at your nearest railway station.
- Attach the required documents.
- Prepare your bike:
- Make sure the fuel tank is empty.
- Pack your bike properly.
- Tie a cardboard with the names of the origin and destination stations to your bike.
- Fill the forwarding note:
- Write the origin and destination stations.
- Mention your postal address, bike make, registration number, weight and value.
- Pay the charges:
- Pay the packing and delivery charges.
- Insurance charges are included in the parcel cost (no extra charge if the declared value is up to ₹10,000; 1% extra if above).
Booking your bike as luggage
It's essential to book your bike as luggage concurrently with your train ticket or at least 24 hours before your departure. However, verify that your chosen train offers this service.
- Arrive early: Arrive at the station at least 30 minutes before the train's departure to avoid any last-minute complications.
- Check-in at the luggage office: Locate the luggage office and submit the journey ticket and your bike’s documents.
- Pay the required luggage fee based on the bike’s weight and distance.
- Follow packing and labelling procedures:
- Packing: The fuel tank must be emptied, and movable parts like the chain or pedals should be secured.
- Labelling: Attach a durable and clear label to your bike with your name, contact information and destination details to avoid any mix-ups.
- Present your journey ticket: Present your journey ticket during the booking process at the luggage office. An endorsement will be made on your ticket; it links your bike with your travel itinerary.
- Collect the luggage ticket: After confirming the booking, you will receive a luggage ticket for your bike. This ticket is needed to track your bike and collect it upon arrival at your destination.
What documents are required for transporting a bike by train?
Here’s a list of documents you’ll need:
- Valid government-issued ID proof: ID proof like Aadhaar card, driving licence or passport to verify your identity.
- Bike registration certificate: Carry the original and a photocopy to prove ownership.
- Insurance details: Have a bike insurance policy to cover potential damages during transport.
- PUC certificate: To show your bike meets environmental standards.
- Detailed transport form: Fill out at the booking counter to provide specifics like your name, address and destination.
- Reservation ticket: You must have a reservation ticket to link it with your travel itinerary if you book your bike as luggage.
What are the bike parcel transport rules issued by Indian Railways?
Indian Railways has established certain guidelines to ensure your bike arrives at its destination safely. Here’s what you need to know, written in the same format you used:
- Empty fuel tank: Before booking, your bike must have an empty petrol tank. Transporting a bike with fuel is prohibited as a safety measure.
- Compulsory packing: The bike must be packed properly before transport. Packing services are usually available near the station, and proper wrapping helps protect your bike from scratches and damage during loading and unloading.
- Clear labelling: You must label your bike with the names of the starting and destination stations. This label should be tied securely so railway staff can easily identify and route your bike correctly.
- Bike documents: Carry the original and a photocopy of your bike’s Registration Certificate (RC), a valid government ID, the bike’s insurance policy and a PUC certificate. These documents are required both during booking and at the time of collection.
- Parcel Way Bill (PWB): After paying the parcel charges, the railway will issue a Parcel Way Bill, which serves as your receipt. You must show this PWB when collecting your bike at the destination.
- Declare bike value: When booking your bike as a parcel, you will be asked to declare its value. This helps determine the insurance coverage and is important if any issue arises during transit.
- Pick up on time: Once your bike reaches the destination station, ensure you collect it promptly. Delayed pickups may result in additional charges.
- Present your ID and parcel receipt: To take delivery of your bike, you must show a valid ID and the original Parcel Way Bill to the parcel office staff.
What is the cost of transporting a bike by train and how is it calculated?
Indian Railways calculates bike transport charges based on weight, distance and other factors, such as packing and insurance.
|
Cost Component
|
Description
|
Estimated Charges (INR)
|
|
Packing cost
|
Covers the cost of packing your bike securely before loading
|
300–500
|
|
Parcel or luggage charge
|
Calculated based on the bike’s weight and total distance
|
Around 120–150 (for a 100 kg bike over 290 km)
|
|
Insurance charge
|
Covers the declared value of your bike during transit
|
Included in cost (1% extra if value exceeds 10,000)
|
|
Delivery and handling charge
|
Charged for unloading and handling at the destination station
|
100–200
|
|
Total estimated cost
|
Combined cost for the complete transport process
|
500–1000
|
Why should you consider two-wheeler insurance before transporting your bike?
Sending your bike by train is generally safe and affordable, but unexpected incidents can still occur during packing, loading, unloading or transit. This makes it essential to have an active two wheeler insurance policy before arranging transport, as it provides financial protection if anything goes wrong.
Why insurance matters
Two-wheeler insurance protects you from paying repair or replacement costs if your bike is damaged, scratched or stolen while in transit. It covers more than just physical damage; many policies also include theft protection and third-party liability benefits. Having insurance adds peace of mind when your bike is being handled by others.
What comprehensive two-wheeler insurance covers
A comprehensive policy covers accidental damage during loading, unloading or railway transport. It also protects against theft or loss while the bike is in transit. Many insurers offer additional benefits such as zero-depreciation cover, roadside assistance and enhanced protection for expensive parts.
Tips before booking your bike transport
Before transporting your bike, make sure your insurance policy is active and includes transit-related coverage. Keep your insurance documents handy during booking and delivery. You can also consider add-ons that increase protection during transit, especially if your bike is new or of high value.
Conclusion
Transporting your bike by train is one of the most reliable and budget-friendly ways to move it from one city to another. All you need to do is follow the railway guidelines and keep your documents ready. Always ensure the fuel tank is empty, the bike is packed securely and the booking receipt is stored safely for collection at the destination.
For added protection, make sure your comprehensive two wheeler insurance is active before shipping. With proper preparation, your bike can reach its destination safely and without any hassle.
If you are looking for a suitable insurance plan for your bike, fill out the form on this page to explore the best available options.
FAQs
1. Can I travel with my bike on the same train?
Yes. Book your bike as luggage, show your travel ticket and bike documents, and reach the luggage office at least 45–60 minutes before departure.
2. How do I send my bike as a parcel?
Visit the parcel office with your RC, ID, insurance and PUC. Ensure the petrol tank is empty, pack the bike, fill the forwarding note, pay the charges and collect the Parcel Way Bill for pickup.
3. What documents are required to transport a bike by train?
You need the bike’s RC, a valid ID, insurance papers, a PUC certificate and the booking receipt.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the topic featured in the article. 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.