Parcel Booking in Train: How It Works, Documents and Charges
A complete guide to parcel booking in train under Indian Railways rules, covering luggage vs parcel differences, scale rates, required paperwork, and how ParcelJi simplifies doorstep pickup and station handling.
Sending a parcel by train is one of the most economical ways to move goods across India, but the way it works has changed. This guide explains how parcel booking in a train works today, who you actually book with, what you need to carry, how charges are decided and how to track your parcel.
Who you book with
Parcel space on most trains, in the luggage and parcel vans (coded SLR, VPU or VPH), is leased by the railways to authorised private operators through tenders. The railways keep a smaller share of that space at each station. So, depending on the train and the space available, your parcel is booked either with the private lessee who holds the space, or with the railway's own parcel office.
ParcelJi is run by M/S Ravi Enterprises, an authorised railway parcel agent. We are a private business and not part of Indian Railways itself. We book whichever space is available on your train and tell you which one before you confirm.
How charges are decided
- On the railway's own space, parcel charges depend on weight and distance.
- On leased space, the rate is decided by the lease holder.
Because of this, two parcels on the same route can have different rates, depending on the train and who holds the space. Ask for the rate before you book, and ask what it includes.
Step-by-step: booking a parcel in a train
- Decide what you are sending and count the packages.
- Pack and label. Use strong cartons or sacks, seal every seam and write the receiver's name, phone number and destination on at least two sides.
- Choose the train. Ask which trains to your destination have parcel space, who holds that space, and when booking closes for each train.
- Carry your papers. A photo ID of the sender, the receiver's details and, for business goods, an invoice. Goods above the GST value limit also need an e-way bill, so check the current threshold.
- Book and keep the receipt. The consignment is weighed and recorded, and a receipt (LR) is issued by whoever holds the space, the lessee or the railway parcel office. Keep it safe, because it is needed to track and collect.
- Track and collect. Share the LR number with the receiver, who collects at the destination, at the place told to you when you book, with photo ID and the receipt, and checks the packages before accepting.
What can and cannot be sent
Household goods, books, clothes, appliances, business cartons and vehicles such as bikes and scooters can be sent, with the right packing and papers. Dangerous, flammable and illegal goods are not allowed, and perishable goods are generally not accepted. Vehicles need an empty fuel tank and a disconnected battery. If you are unsure about an item, ask before you pack.
Packing tips
- Use double-walled cartons for heavy goods and do not overfill them.
- Fill gaps so nothing moves, and pad fragile items.
- Use plastic wrapping or lining in the rainy season.
- Photograph the packed goods before dispatch, in case you need to make a claim.
How long does it take?
The time depends on the train, whether it runs direct, loading and unloading at both ends, the booking cut-off and how quickly the receiver collects. Space on any train is limited, so book a day or two ahead where you can, and ask for the expected arrival when you book.
Book with ParcelJi
Our verified station agents handle pickup, booking and delivery coordination, with a private lessee or with the railways, depending on the space available. You can follow your consignment on our tracking page and get updates on phone or WhatsApp.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do I book a parcel in a train?
With the private lessee who holds the parcel space on that train, or with the railway parcel office, depending on the train and the space available. ParcelJi can arrange either.
Who decides the rate?
On leased space, the lease holder decides the rate. On the railway's own space, the charge depends on weight and distance.
Do I need to travel with the parcel?
No. A parcel travels separately from you, and the receiver collects it at the destination.
What documents do I need?
A photo ID of the sender, the receiver's details and, for business goods, an invoice. An e-way bill is needed above the GST value limit.
How do I track my parcel?
Use the LR number with whoever issued it, the private lessee or the railway parcel office, or the ParcelJi tracking page if you booked through us.
Can ParcelJi collect the goods from my address?
Yes, where an agent is available. Share your pickup location when you request a booking.