How To Transport A Bike by Train?

Here are some of the most common reasons why people have to opt for sending bikes via railways.

Relocation to New State or City

The most common reason people send bikes by train is relocation. People move to a new place mostly for work or other personal reasons. In such cases, they choose to transport their bikes via train rather than ride them long distances, as it might be uncomfortable or not feasible in some cases.

To Avoid Damage

Riding a bike for long distances may cause significant wear and tear. Some owners want to avoid damaging their beloved possessions. Thus, the most feasible means of transport by bike is the train.

Personal Preference

Long-distance bike travel can also be tiring and dangerous. To avoid discomfort, people often prioritise comfort and safety and choose to transport their bikes via train, which is a wise decision.

Special Situations

Special circumstances, such as medical emergencies, family needs, or personal reasons, can lead to people transporting their bikes via train for fast and comfortable journeys.

Travelling Enthusiasts

There is a travel enthusiast who wants to ride their bike from a certain location and thus chooses a train to send their bike to the chosen location. From there on, they ride their bike; it is a great way to enjoy bike rides and explore places safely.

Bike transport by train is an economical and easier way to move your two-wheeler from one location to another. It is especially beneficial if the journey is long; there are two main ways to ship your bike by train:

• Luggage Transportation

• Parcel Transportation

Luggage Transportation

This is the fastest transport method. When you travel on the same train to your destination, you can use luggage transportation services to send your bike from one place to another.

Here are the steps to follow to send a bike by train as luggage.

• Visit the Railway luggage booking office a few days before your travel journey when you want to take the bike as luggage.

• Carry copies of mandatory documents required for making bookings for bikes as luggage.

• Please complete all the necessary forms and provide all the information regarding the luggage bike. Then, pay the charges to carry the bike as luggage.

• After booking payments, you will receive a luggage ticket and endorsement will be added to your journey ticket.

• Now, pack your bike perfectly to get it parcelled. If you know how to pack it, you can do it yourself, or you can hire experts to do it for you. Make sure to add a label with details of your starting and ending destinations along with your bike details.

• Your bike will be dispatched on the same train as you are travelling on, subject to available accommodation.

• Once you reach your destination, present your original ticket along with an endorsement to claim your bike.

**Parcel Transportation

Parcel transport is another method of bike transport by train. A bike parcel in the train can be chosen if you are not travelling on the train along with your bike.

• Follow these steps to send a bike by train as a parcel.

• Visit the parcel office with a copy of your bike registration document and a valid government-issued ID for identification.

• Pack your bike before booking it for the parcel. Empty its fuel tank and label it with the necessary details.

• Finally, complete the forwarding note with details such as the starting and ending journey, postal address, bike model and make, registration number, and weight and value of the bike.

Generally speaking, the timings for luggage booking for railways are pretty lenient. However, parcel booking with courier companies has strict timings to adhere to. You should book your parcel between 10 am and 5 pm. You must also complete the booking process at least 2 days before you plan to transport your bike.

• Bike registration certificate as proof of ownership.

• Valid government-issued identification proof: Aadhar card, Voter ID card, Passport.

• Bike insurance document as valid proof of insurance.

• Receipt of railway transportation booking.

• Vehicle fitness certificate (required for certain models).

• Pollution Under Control Certificate (PUC) Certificate

• No Objection Certificate (NOC)

• Photographs of the bike as proof and identification.

Also Read: Documents Required To Buy Bike in India

You Must Empty Your Bike's Petrol Tank: Your bike will only be allowed on the train with an empty fuel tank. If your tank is not empty during an inspection, you will need to retrieve your bike from the train, resulting in wasted travel expenses.

Follow The Rules and Guidelines: There is always a fuel tank inspection before your bike gets loaded into the train. Individuals are issued a fine of ₹1,000 - ₹5,000 if they have not emptied their bike's fuel tanks.

You Must Have Valid Documents: This will include an insurance policy for your bike and your bike's registration certificate. You can easily get insurance for a 2-wheeler if you do not have insurance.

Maintain Your Receipts: Keep any payment receipts or booking tickets you may receive safely. When you retrieve or receive your bike, you must present it to the rail authorities or delivery person.

Also Read: Road Safety Tips for Two-Wheeler Riders

Note: Train transport charges for bikes are subject to change as per Railway policies. Verify them before proceeding

Also Read: What is the Impact of GST on Bike Insurance?

Transporting a bike via train is an affordable and convenient way to move your bike from one location to another. Your bike will be packed and parcelled safely to its destination. However, no matter how much safety one follows, there is always a chance of damage during transit.

However, these damages can be easily covered with a bike insurance policy. If you have a third-party bike insurance policy, you can easily add an own damage cover to account for these damages and enhance protection.

TATA AIG bike insurance provides you with the option to buy a policy online that fits your needs. Our bike insurance policy offers coverage for loss or damage during transit via rail, air and sea, along with benefits like theft and accident coverage and protection against natural calamities.

What kind of items are not allowed on the train?

Flammable items like explosives, firecrackers, gas cylinders and other perishable goods are not allowed in trains.

What is the per kg charge on the railway?

The normal charge per kg in railways is around ₹15 to ₹18 per kg. However, these charges may change; thus, make sure to verify them before carrying any heavy item.

Can I take a bike on the railway that is not mine?

Yes, absolutely. You can transport any bike on the railway. However, to avoid any inconvenience, make sure to bring your original bike documents and proof of identification with you.

Is it really safe to transport a bike on the railway?

Yes, transporting a bike on the railway is absolutely safe with all the instructions and cautions followed.