Transporting a car across long distances can be expensive and exhausting if you choose to drive it yourself. Car shifting services by train in India offer a cost-effective and reliable alternative. With the extensive rail network managed by Indian Railways and booking assistance through IRCTC, vehicle transport by train has become a practical option for intercity relocation.
This method is ideal for job transfers, family relocation, students moving cities, or anyone looking for an economical vehicle shifting solution.
Why Choose Car Shifting by Train in India?
Railway vehicle transport is popular for several reasons:
1. Affordable Long-Distance Transport
Train parcel services are usually cheaper than road carriers, especially for routes over 800–1000 km.
2. Reduced Vehicle Wear & Tear
Your car remains stationary during transit, avoiding fuel costs, mileage increase, and engine strain.
3. Safe & Structured Handling
Vehicles are loaded into parcel vans or dedicated wagons with secure locking systems.
4. Wide Connectivity Across Cities
Major routes like Delhi–Mumbai, Chennai–Kolkata, and Bangalore–Guwahati are well connected through rail networks.
5. Reliable Scheduling
Train transport follows fixed timetables, making delivery planning easier than road-only transport.
Modes of Car Transport by Train
There are two primary ways to shift your car via railway:
• Parcel Mode
Your car is transported as a parcel and you don’t need to travel on the same train. This is the most commonly used option.
• Luggage Mode
Your vehicle is booked as luggage, and you must travel on the same train. It may be cheaper but less flexible.
Documents Required for Train Car Transport
To book your car for railway transport, you generally need:
Vehicle Registration Certificate (RC) copy
Government-issued ID proof
Address proof
Booking form and parcel receipt
Valid vehicle insurance
Railway staff may inspect the vehicle before loading.
Car Transport Charges by Train in India
Railway vehicle transport cost depends on:
Distance between stations
Car size and weight
Booking mode (parcel or luggage)
Loading/unloading fees
Insurance charges
Typically, car shifting by train may cost between ₹4,000 and ₹15,000 for long-distance routes, making it one of the most economical options available.
Tips for Safe Car Shifting by Train
Before handing over your vehicle, follow these precautions:
Remove personal belongings from the car
Keep fuel level minimal (usually below 5 litres)
Take photos of the vehicle before transit
Opt for insurance coverage if available
Confirm unloading station and delivery timing
These steps help ensure a smooth and dispute-free delivery process.
Conclusion
Car shifting services by train in India provide a practical, economical, and widely accessible way to transport vehicles across long distances. With structured railway handling, predictable schedules, and affordable pricing, train-based vehicle transport is a smart choice for many relocations. If you want to save money while ensuring safe delivery, shifting your car by train can be an excellent solution.
FAQs – Car Shifting Services by Train India
Q1. Is car transport by train safe?
Yes, railway parcel services are considered safe, especially when insurance is taken.
Q2. Do I need to travel with my car on the train?
Only in luggage mode. Parcel mode allows separate shipment.
Q3. How long does railway car transport take?
Delivery usually takes 3–12 days depending on route and train availability.
Q4. Can I keep luggage inside the car?
No, personal items are generally not allowed and may not be insured.
Q5. Is train transport cheaper than road transport?
Yes, especially for long-distance routes, train transport is often more economical.
