Indian Railways Warning: Sending Your Bike from Pune? Use Only Authorized Vendor — Avoid Scams, Know the Fee and Booking Rules

Pune, May 9, 2025 — With a steady rise in the number of two-wheelers being shipped via train from Pune Railway Station, railway officials are cautioning travelers to remain vigilant against unauthorized agents and to strictly adhere to official booking protocols.

According to data released by the Pune Division of Indian Railways, there has been a consistent increase in bike shipments from the station this year. A total of 2,032 bikes were dispatched in January, 1,820 in February, 2,201 in March, and a peak of 2,515 in April. Similarly, incoming bike shipments were recorded at 2,591 in January, 1,954 in February, 2,236 in March, and 2,217 in April.

Only One Authorized Packing Agent at Pune Station

In light of this growing demand, railway authorities are warning passengers to steer clear of fraudulent agents operating around the station. Hemant Kumar Behera, Divisional Commercial Manager (DCM) and Public Relations Officer (PRO), confirmed that only a single railway-authorized packaging vendor is permitted at the Pune Station parcel section. The official packaging fee is between ₹300 and ₹400. Any other transport or delivery service claiming to operate on or near the premises is unauthorized.

“Passengers must avoid falling prey to private agents who charge exorbitant rates or offer fake services,” said Behera. “Always book only at the railway parcel office and request a receipt.”

Required Documents and Bike Preparation

To book a two-wheeler, passengers must provide:

• A photocopy of the Registration Certificate (RC) of the vehicle
• A government-issued ID proof of the vehicle owner
• A government-issued ID of the sender (if different from the owner)

Before handing over the bike, the sender must ensure:

• Side mirrors and accessories are removed
• The fuel tank is completely empty
• A cardboard tag is attached, clearly stating origin and destination stations

Two Modes of Booking: Parcel vs. Luggage

1. Parcel Booking (for non-travelers):

• Requires RC and ID copies
• Bike must be packaged in advance
• A forwarding note must be filled with details such as registration number, type, weight, and sender information

2. Luggage Booking (for travelers):

• Must be done at least 30 minutes before departure
• Requires a valid travel ticket
• A luggage ticket will be issued and linked to the passenger’s train ticket
• The same documentation and packaging rules apply

Charges Based on Distance and Type

Bike transport charges follow Indian Railways’ rate slabs:

• S-scale (Standard): ₹400 (e.g., Pune to Nagpur – 884 km)
• P-scale (Premier): ₹800
• R-scale (Rajdhani): ₹1,200
• L-scale (Luggage): ₹1,440

Add ₹300–₹400 for packaging, payable only to the official railway vendor. Passengers can verify charges using the Indian Railways Parcel Rate Calculator.

Crackdown on Unauthorized Operators

Pune Division is taking a zero-tolerance stance on illegal agents. Surveillance has been intensified to deter unauthorized activity in and around the parcel office. Officials urge passengers to avoid middlemen and conduct all bookings at the designated railway counters.

Need Help? Contact the Official Support Line

Passengers seeking assistance can contact the railway-approved packaging service directly at 9766353772. All bookings must be made in person at the Parcel or Luggage Counter at Pune Station.

By following proper procedures and avoiding shortcuts, passengers can ensure their two-wheeler is shipped securely and at the right cost.