TL;DR: Car transport by train is a cost-effective way to transfer your vehicle from one city or state to another. To successfully move your car, you need to fill out a form at the railway parcel office. Once the car is delivered to your destination station, you have to collect it from the station. The cost of car transport by train ranges between ₹5,000 and ₹18,000.
Are you racking your brain to find an affordable way to move your car from one city to another? Many people drive their vehicles to the destination city, but it is a challenge for long distances. Thankfully, car transport by train is a cost-effective option! Moreover, auto transport by rail is less time-consuming than driving your car. All you have to do is submit your ID proof, car registration certificate, and insurance. After all, moving your car by train does not add mileage or increase the risk of wear and tear. Indian Railways offers two modes: by parcel and by automobile freight carriers. When you send your car by train, you choose an eco-friendly option.
With the railway parcel tracking feature, you are always up to date on your vehicle’s location. Of course, first-timers might have difficulty navigating how to move car by train. Don’t worry, we will help you with everything you need to know. We will tell you why you should choose car transport through train, the step-by-step process, how to calculate the charges, and more. Let’s take a look below!
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Different Modes of Auto Transport by Train
Vehicle transport by train is a cost-effective and reliable way to transfer your car across the country. Here, we will tell you about the different modes of car transport by train:
1. Parcel Booking Mode: The car is transported separately from the owner and is likely to be transferred in a parcel van. Later, we will collect the vehicle from the parcel office.
2. Luggage Booking Mode: The car travels with you on the same train, and it is booked as luggage.
3. Auto Freight Service: Private and commercial vehicles are shifted in specific railway wagons for bulk or long-distance transport.
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Why Choose Car Transport by Train in India
Car transport by train is one of the most affordable choices and offers several advantages. It is a widely preferred choice among many Indians, and here are the reasons why:
1. On-Time Delivery
Trains run on fixed schedules, so your car will be delivered to the destination on time. With the Indian Railways parcel tracking feature, you can track your car on the train in real time to get updates provided by the railway authorities. This will help you get the latest status, and if you have any concerns, you have the option to be informed at every step, making it easier to get your car safely to the destination.
2. Safety and Security
Cars go in the dedicated wagons and are safely fastened by the railway authorities so that your car will be protected from any movement or damage during transit. Transporting a vehicle by train involves almost zero scratches, dents, or damage during the journey.
To be sure about the safety, there is a strict process that helps you minimise risks, and you may be required to get the necessary documents ready. This is the reason why car transport by train is the preferred choice for many, as there is a reliable system to get your car delivered safely. If you are planning to transport your car, you have to follow the guidelines and ensure all steps are completed to get the best and safest experience.
3. Affordable
Car shifting by train is budget-friendly. Trains carry many vehicles at the same time, and the overall cost for cars becomes lower. Compared to other modes, car transport by train may be the most economical option, as there are bulk discounts and lower charges to get your vehicle delivered. You can get the best rates for the service provided by the railway authorities, and for long-distance travel, this is the preferred choice. If you want to get the best deal, you have to compare quotes and follow the process carefully. For the budget-conscious, car transport by train is easy on the pocket.
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Step-by-Step Booking Process for Auto Transport by Train
You might be wondering how to send car by train in India, so here are the essential steps you need to follow.
1. Visit the Railway Parcel Office: Go to the parcel office of your railway station to start the booking process.
2. Book in Advance: It’s best to book your vehicle at least a week earlier, especially when it’s the festival or peak season.
3. Submit Vehicle Details: Share essential information such as the make, model, registration number, destination station, and desired destination.
4. Complete Documentation: When transporting a car by rail, you have to fill out the form and submit the required documents like your ID proof, insurance copy, and most importantly, the registration certificate RC. You have to ensure that all documents are valid and up to date for the process to be smooth.
5. Pay the Applicable Charges: The charges for the car transport by the Indian Railway are calculated by the parcel office based on the type of vehicle and the destination.
If you need help, the railway staff will help you with the process, and your car will be safely loaded and shipped from one location to another. There is a possibility that the charges may be different for the distance, and the car will be delivered to the destination as per the Indian Railway’s process, which is the best and most secure way to transport your vehicle.
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Documents Required for Car Shipping by Train
For car shifting by train in India, you need to provide certain documents, including the registration certificate RC. You have to ensure that your RC is valid and up-to-date, as it is required to prove you are the legal owner of the vehicle. This is to verify vehicle ownership and ensure a smooth booking. Here are the essential documents needed for transporting a vehicle by train:
1. Registration certificate RC to prove you are the legal owner of the vehicle.
2. Government ID proof (PAN card, Aadhaar card, driving license, or passport) to confirm your identity
3. Car insurance to make sure the vehicle is insured during transit
4. A Pollution Under Control Certificate is required by some railway zones.
You will also need the declaration/booking form, which includes details about the car and destination. For the document verification process, all papers are to be checked by the railway authorities. There are cases where additional documents may be required, and if you need any help, you can contact the service provider. If you are unsure about the process, there is guidance available to help you. The process is the responsibility of the railway and is the standard procedure for the safe and legal transport of your vehicle.
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How to Calculate the Cost of Car Transport by Train
Car transportation by train is a hassle-free and affordable process. Compared to other modes of transportation, the cost may be lower, which is the reason why many people choose this option. There are several factors to be considered for the calculation, and to get the best deal, you can get the charges calculated by the online calculator provided by the railway authorities. For the most accurate estimate, you have to be ready with all the required details. These steps help you if you want to transport your car safely and efficiently, and help you understand the process better. Here are a few aspects you need to remember when you calculate the car transport charges:
1. Distance
The cost of car transport depends on the distance. Indian Railways usually factors in the fee unit of travel.
If you want to transport your car from one city to another, the cost may be different depending on the route, distance, and destination. There are various options to help you send your car from your location to another city on the train, and the charges are the sum of the base fare and additional services. You have to be aware that the final cost may be higher for longer distances, and if you need assistance, our team is here to help you with the process.
The car transport charges are based on the distance travelled. Based on the routes, the rate of car transport by train varies.
2. Security Deposits and Loading Charges
Loading and unloading services also add to the total car shipping cost. The fee covers the secure handling of the car into and out of the wagon. The railway authorities require a security deposit for the safe loading process, and to get your car delivered, you have to pay this deposit for the specific vehicle and route. There are certain guidelines to be followed to be eligible for the refund, and if you need help, you may be able to get the right information from the official sources. Get the receipt for the deposit, as it is the proof required to get your refund.
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3. Insurance Costs
You can get insurance from the Indian Railways when you choose car relocation services by train. Your vehicle’s value and the type of insurance coverage also determine the costs for train transport. The rates will differ, but you can choose between basic and comprehensive insurance packages.
Charges for Car Transport by Train in India Railways (Short-Distance)
| Car Type | Typical Charges (Short to Long Distance) |
| Small Hatchback (Alto, Swift, i10) | ₹5,000 – ₹9,000 |
| Sedan (City, Verna, Ciaz) | ₹7,000 – ₹11,000 |
| SUV (Creta, Scorpio, Nexon) | ₹9,000 – ₹13,000 |
| Premium / Luxury Cars (BMW, Audi, Mercedes) | ₹12,000 – ₹18,000 |
Approximate City-to-City Charges (Short-Distance)
| Route | Approx. Charges |
| Delhi → Mumbai | ₹6,000 – ₹10,000 |
| Mumbai → Kolkata | ₹7,000 – ₹12,000 |
| Bangalore → Delhi | ₹10,000 – ₹15,000 |
Cost of Car Transport by Train in India Railways (Long-Distance)
| Car Type | 1,000–2,000 km (Long Distance) | 2,000+ km (Ultra Long Distance) |
| Small Hatchback (Alto, Swift, i10) | ₹7,000 – ₹9,000 | ₹9,000 – ₹11,000 |
| Sedan (City, Verna, Ciaz) | ₹8,000 – ₹10,000 | ₹10,000 – ₹12,000 |
| SUV (Creta, Scorpio, Nexon) | ₹9,000 – ₹11,000 | ₹11,000 – ₹13,000 |
| Premium/Luxury Cars (BMW, Audi, Mercedes) | ₹12,000 – ₹15,000 | ₹15,000 – ₹18,000 |
Approximate City-to-City Charges (Long-Distance)
| Route (Long Distance) | Approx. Charges |
| Delhi → Chennai (~2,200 km) | ₹10,000 – ₹15,000 |
| Mumbai → Guwahati (~2,800 km) | ₹12,000 – ₹17,000 |
| Bangalore → Delhi (~2,100 km) | ₹10,000 – ₹15,000 |
| Kolkata → Pune (~1,900 km) | ₹8,000 – ₹12,000 |
| Hyderabad → Chandigarh (~1,700 km) | ₹8,000 – ₹11,000 |
Using the Indian Railways Car Parcel Charges Calculator
For car transport by train, the Indian Railways car parcel charges calculator is the best way to get an estimate. It is an online calculator to get the approximate cost depending on the type of vehicle, destination, and weight. Here’s how to use the Indian Railways car parcel charges:
1. Visit the official website (https://parcel.indianrail.gov.in/parcelhome.jsp?enc=hi#calc-section) to estimate the parcel weight
2. Click on ‘Expected Freight’
3. Choose the starting point and destination
4. Choose the carriage charge
5. Put the car’s weight and dimensions
6. Click on ‘Submit’ and get the car transport cost
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How to Prepare for Car Shipping via Train
You need to make sure car transport by train remains hassle-free. Preparing the vehicle cushions your car from damage and helps you comply with the regulations set by the Indian Railways. Here’s how you should prepare for auto transport by train:
1. Vehicle Inspection
To transport a car by train, ensure the vehicle is in good working condition. Check the battery, tyres, and brakes; if there are mechanical issues, you should fix them to avoid challenges during loading and unloading. If any existing damages, take photos and videos.
In case the car sustains scratches, wear, and tear due to transit, you can show the documentation. Furthermore, check the coolant and other fluids to ensure there are no leaks.
2. Remove Accessories
Make sure to remove the personal items that your insurance does not cover. During rail transport, car accessories may move around and eventually cause damage. If there are loose parts such as spoilers, mirrors, or antennas, it’s best to fix or remove them if possible.
When preparing for rail car carrier, ensure the car is locked to prevent unauthorised access during transit. Keep copies of essential documents, such as insurance and registration, with you instead of putting them inside the car.
3. Read the Regulations
For auto transport by train, the Indian Railways focuses on certain regulations for moving vehicles. The regulations include packaging standards, the number of vehicles allowed, and insurance requirements. According to the Indian Railways, vehicles need to comply with the emission standards set by the Central Pollution Control Board. It is important to ensure the car has a PUC certificate.
It is also important to understand the liability of the Indian Railways against loss or damage to items. You can get external insurance if you feel the need for it. Another thing to remember is the interstate regulations when your car is travelling across states. You need to cover entry taxes or permit charges for specific vehicles.
4. Documentation
When it comes to validating your ownership of the vehicle, you need to show the vehicle registration certificate (RC). So, you should keep it up-to-date. The car transport service by train requires you to have an active insurance policy. While it’s not crucial for legal compliance, you can use it to claim compensation.
The auto transport by rail might need a No Objection Certificate (NOC) when the vehicle is under a hypothecation or loan. You will need to show an NOC from the loan company. Besides these, you should keep your government ID proof ready, along with a railway receipt to track and claim the vehicle at the destination station.
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Drawbacks of Car Transport by Train in India
You now know how to transport car by train, and it’s important to keep the limitations in mind, too. Auto transport by rail has restricted accessibility. Due to the limited availability of trains, the Indian Railways offers car shifting services on a set of routes and follows a certain timetable. When the rail system needs to be updated, there may be delays in transit.
On the other hand, trains transport large cargo and trucks in intermediate stations, which delays the arrival of your car and increases the risk of damage. Moreover, speed is another limitation for long-distance travel. If you choose car transport by train, expecting the cargo to arrive on time may be an issue.
While the car transport service by rail is cost-effective and thrives on low-carbon emissions, there are certain disadvantages. The complex booking process, limited trains, risk of delays, minimal control over handling, and complex claim process can hinder your plans. It’s best to figure out alternatives like private vehicle transport services for stress-free transit.
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Contact Mojo Mover Packers and Movers for Hassle-free Car Transport Services
The biggest challenge with auto transport via train is the lack of door-to-door service. This is where Mojo Mover packers and movers can delight you with a convenient facility! We offer our car shifting services in metro cities, including Delhi, Noida, Mumbai, Pune, Hyderabad, and Bangalore. The booking process requires multiple visits to the railway parcel office, but Mojo Mover packers and movers can provide the same service without requiring you to step out. Even though the Indian Railways car transport charges vary between ₹5,000 and ₹15,000, you will have to pay additional costs of loading, packing, and unloading.
Train availability is limited, so it is difficult to find a slot. However, this is never the case with Mojo Mover. As one of the best car transport services in Bangalore, Hyderabad, Delhi, and other cities, we provide safe, secure packaging and an instant quote via call. With Indian Railways, you can only expect station-to-station vehicle transportation; hence, you need to arrange pickup and drop-off separately.
To benefit from a hassle-free booking process, instant and transparent quotes, less paperwork, and door-to-door transport, Mojo Mover packers and movers can always help you. Visit Mojo Mover and get more details!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How much does it cost to transport a car by train?
When you transport a car by train in India, it usually costs between ₹5,000 and ₹15,000, based on the distance, car size, and add-on services like packing and insurance.
2. Can we transport a car in a train?
Yes, you can choose car transport by train through the Indian Railways parcel service. The cars are loaded onto auto-carrier wagons and transported to your destination station.
3. Is car delivery cheaper than driving?
Yes, car shipping is more affordable than driving long distances. You can save on fuel, accommodation, wear and tear, and tolls.
4. What are the disadvantages of rail delivery?
Rail delivery includes a complex booking process, limited train availability, and potential delays. You may pay for additional costs, including packing, drop-off, and pickup.
5. What documents are required to transport a vehicle by train?
You need to submit your vehicle registration certificate, proof of identity, PUC certificate, and a copy of the vehicle insurance policy. You also need to file a declaration form with the parcel office.
6. Can I move my car by train?
Anyone with a valid government ID can choose car transport by train. You need to complete the booking and submit the necessary documents to deliver the car from one station to another.
