If you are shifting to another city and want to send heavy household items like a fridge, AC, or furniture, the Indian Railways parcel service is a cost-effective option. The railway determines the charges based on the weight of the item and the distance it needs to travel.
How to book and what are the charges
You can book parcels offline at the railway parcel office or online via the official website parcel.indianrail.gov.in. For online booking, you need to register, enter the destination, provide item details, and pay the fee to get an e-forwarding note.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Average Rate | ₹5 to ₹20 per kg (up to ₹45 per kg depending on service) |
| Example | Mumbai to Delhi (50kg) may cost ₹15-25 per kg |
| Delivery Time | Typically 1 to 7 days |
| Items Allowed | TV, Fridge, AC, Furniture, Bikes, and Cars |
New rules and digital updates
From September 2025, providing a valid ID proof (Aadhaar, PAN, Voter ID, etc.) and a mobile number is mandatory to prevent fraud. Records of bookings and CCTV footage will be kept for 30 days. Additionally, the security deposit for booking parcel vans increased five-fold on June 3, 2026, with rates ranging from ₹5,000 to ₹25,000 depending on the station.
The South Central Railway launched the ‘Rail Parcel App’ in February 2026 for seven cities including Hyderabad, Bengaluru, and Chennai. This app offers doorstep pickup, delivery, real-time tracking, and digital payments. Also, trans-shipment between parcel trains is now allowed at selected stations to reduce delivery time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What documents are needed for railway parcel booking?
You must provide a mobile number and a valid ID proof such as Aadhaar card, PAN card, Voter ID, Driving License, or Passport.
Can I track my parcel online?
Yes, the new Rail Parcel App provides real-time tracking, though it is currently a pilot project in seven cities like Hyderabad and Bengaluru.