Tezzbuzz Desk – Indian Railways has introduced a major convenience for train passengers. Now, passengers carrying excess luggage will no longer need to stand in long queues outside the parcel office at the railway station to book their luggage. The Railways have introduced the facility to declare and book extra luggage online.
The new facility was implemented from July 31st. However, only passengers with confirmed train tickets will be able to avail of it. The Railways’ aim is to simplify the luggage booking process and reduce paperwork and unnecessary crowds at railway stations.
How to book extra luggage from home?
To book extra luggage, passengers must visit the official Indian Railways parcel portal. They must enter the train number, starting station, destination, and necessary luggage information.
After entering all the information, the portal will provide passengers with the estimated luggage fare.
After completing the online application, passengers can print it. Upon arrival at the station, a final verification of the luggage weight will be conducted. A fixed fee will then be payable.
Upon completion of the journey, luggage can be collected from the destination station by showing the receipt received after payment.
Luggage location will be revealed via SMS.
The Railways has also provided the option to track luggage in the new online facility. Passengers will be able to receive information on the status of their luggage through the track and trace service and SMS.
This is expected to be particularly beneficial for passengers traveling long distances with large or heavy luggage.
How much luggage can be carried free on the train?
Indian Railways has fixed free luggage limits for different classes of travel. Passengers exceeding this limit may incur additional charges.
In second class, i.e., general coaches, passengers can carry up to 35 kg of luggage for free, while the maximum limit is 70 kg, subject to additional charges.
In sleeper class, up to 40 kg of luggage is allowed free, with the maximum limit being 80 kg.
The free luggage limit for AC 3-tier and AC Chair Car is 40 kg. According to the rules, excess luggage is not permitted here.
In Second AC, passengers can carry up to 50 kg of luggage for free, while the maximum limit is 100 kg.
On the other hand, the free luggage limit for First AC passengers is the highest. Up to 70 kg of luggage can be carried without additional charge, while the maximum limit is 150 kg.
What will be the charge for extra luggage?
If the passenger exceeds the free luggage limit, they will have to pay extra. Extra luggage will be charged approximately one and a half times the standard luggage rate.
The minimum charge for this is ₹30, and the fee will be calculated based on a 10 kg slab. A minimum distance of 50 km will also apply for fare calculation.
Which passengers will benefit?
Currently, only passengers with confirmed tickets will be able to use this railway facility. This means that if your ticket is confirmed and you are traveling with luggage exceeding the prescribed free allowance, the online booking process can be completed before arriving at the station.
The new railway system is expected to save passengers time and reduce congestion at the station’s parcel office. This facility can prove to be especially useful for those traveling with heavy luggage during festivals and holidays.