Carrying extra luggage? Indian Railways now lets you book it online

New Delhi: Passengers travelling by train can now book extra luggage online without having to wait at the station. Indian Railways launched its online luggage booking system on Friday, allowing travellers to reserve baggage space before their journey.

Passengers with confirmed train tickets can book extra luggage through the https://parcel.indianrail.gov.in/ portal. By entering their travel and luggage details, they can view the applicable charges based on the weight of the baggage.

After completing the online application, passengers must take a printout and submit it at the parcel counter of their originating station. The luggage charges can then be paid based on the weight of the baggage, following which a receipt will be issued.

Passengers can collect their luggage at the destination station by presenting the receipt. They will also receive an SMS on their registered mobile number once the luggage reaches the station. In addition, the consignment can be tracked in real time through the Railways' 'Track and Trace' system.

The free luggage allowance and maximum permissible limits vary according to the class of travel:

• Second Class (General): Free allowance up to 35 kg; booking permitted up to 70 kg.

• Sleeper Class: Free allowance up to 40 kg; booking permitted up to 80 kg.

• AC Chair Car: Maximum luggage limit of 40 kg (no additional luggage beyond the permitted limit).

• AC Two Tier: Free allowance up to 50 kg; booking permitted up to 100 kg.

• First AC: Free allowance up to 70 kg; booking permitted up to 150 kg.