Considering transporting your air conditioner and washing machine in Indian Railway between states? Utilizing the Indian Railways network might be a smart choice. The railway’s parcel service provides a budget-friendly option for transportation. Simply ensure to securely package your appliances as parcel cargo, and you’re good to go
Looking to transport your air conditioner and washing machine in Indian Railway from one state to another through the Indian Railways network can be a good idea as the railway’s parcel service offers a cost-effective means of transport. All you need to do is package your air conditioner and washing machine securely and shift them as parcel cargo.
As a first step, you need to contact the nearest railway station office in the place where you reside currently or look up the official Indian Railways website to obtain information regarding the parcel booking process, specific charges including the payable taxes, and any other important regulations and guidelines about shifting large appliances through railways.
In this blog, we examine in detail the steps to move your air conditioner and washing machine in Indian Railway securely:
How to move the air conditioner without leaking the gas?
A professional air conditioning technician having the right equipment, knowledge, and expertise can pump down, i.e. pump all the refrigerant down into the outdoor unit. When this is done by someone without proper training and experience it may result in refrigerant burns, loss of refrigerant, possible damage to the air conditioner, and the possibility of electric shock.
To move an air conditioner you need to again seal the refrigerant in the outdoor unit as it was when you first bought the air conditioner. A technician by using an adjustable spanner will carefully remove the safety caps from the service valves and the suction line gauge connection. This has to be done carefully as the valves could leak and cause a buildup of pressurized refrigerant. An experienced technician has to do the opening and resealing of these caps in case of leakage to prevent any mishaps.
After you have tightly sealed the refrigerant in the outdoor unit, carefully loosen the flare nuts that are keeping the copper pipes attached to it. Do not forget to double-check that the power supply has been completely isolated before cautiously disconnecting the wiring. This will ensure that the outdoor unit is safe to be moved.
You are now ready to transport your air conditioner safely, let us now understand the safety tips for getting your washing machine ready similarly.
How to prepare your washing machine for safe transport?
Moving a washing machine in Indian Railway can be sometimes more complicated than what meets the eye. Washing machines are bulkier compared to air conditioners, they are delicate and have many parts that need to be handled with care to ensure that everything works well after moving from one place to another.
Follow carefully the instructions listed in the manual before you begin to move as the manual will give you an understanding of the specific materials needed for transporting a washing machine. It will also give you an idea of whether certain components should be left secured or detached in a certain way as you move the washing machine. Buy proper packing supplies and moving equipment such as wrenches, pliers, washing machine cleaners, packing tape, cardboard or foam, moving blankets, dolly, rope, or bungee cords, and any other needed items. All these should be in your possession to move your washing machine properly. Thereafter, you clean the washer, wipe and clean the interiors to remove any detergent residues, unplug the power outlet, detach the water hose, and protect the drum and washer with cardboard or foam and tape respectively. Preferably pack both the air conditioner and washing machine in gunny bags, and once everything is set then move the items.
Booking your slot with the Railways
As said earlier the nearest station is the best as you wouldn’t have to incur larger expenses in shifting the air conditioner and washing machine in Indian Railway from your home. Avail the services of the fastest train on the route, direct train is always best. Declare the value of the goods to be transported by paying the extra percentage charge of the Indian Railways as this will help in case you suffer any loss or damages, you can claim the whole value. Do not forget to label your goods, the name, address, and phone numbers should be mentioned correctly. Handover the air conditioner and washing machine in Indian Railway parcel booking office and the officials there will in turn book it and send it to the destination.
What are the procedures for sending luggage through the Indian Railways if I am not travelling?
Take a printed copy of your government ID proof and submit it to the railway officials. They will send the luggage based on the vacant spots on the train. It is very important to mention the name and phone number of the contact person who will be receiving the luggage at the destination station.
Reach the railway station one day before the departure or at least 4 hours earlier, fill out the parcel form as railways will weigh the luggage, and fill out the parcel office form. After submitting the form, you will get a receipt which needs to be presented at the destination station to collect your luggage. You will receive a confirmation SMS on your phone and you can trace the parcel by using the unique code on the official website of the railway parcel website. You have to submit the luggage at the place where the luggage is loaded, and if needed, take some pictures of the luggage for using them later.
What are the benefits of transporting air conditioners and washing machines through Indian Railways?
One is affordability, as trains carry large volumes of goods in one go which lowers the shipping cost per unit. Trains are also more environment friendly as these days it runs on electricity, diesel engines are becoming vogue. While transporting on roads your goods will be transported through uneven terrains which will increase the wear and tear of the air conditioners and washing machine in Indian Railway. Railways have expert and dedicated cargo-handling facilities and hence your goods will be loaded and unloaded the right way.
FAQs for transporting air conditioner and washing machine in Indian Railway?
1. How do I book a slot for transporting my air conditioner and washing machine in Indian Railway?
You can your cargo in office of the railway station. Check with railway personnel on the booking formalities and procedures.
2. What are the dimensions and weight restrictions for transporting goods on a train?
The allowed dimensions and weight limits would vary depending on the train and its availability. Railway staff would be able to throw more light on the specifics involved.
3. What documents do I need to transport goods on a train?
Required documents are waybill, consignment note, or receipt of payment would be needed for transporting your parcel.
4. How do I calculate the transportation charges for my air conditioner and washing machine?
Transportation charges vary based on factors like weight, dimensions, and the distance of transportation. Officials from the cargo office would be able to offer you the exact final charges.
5. Can I insure my air conditioner and washing machine for damage or loss during transit?
Railways offer insurance options for goods that are transported. contact with insurance agents and confirm on the insurance.
6. What should I do if my items arrive damaged or with issues at the destination station?
Inspect your air conditioner and washing machine immediately upon arrival and when you notice any damage then report to the railway authorities immediately and follow their procedures for filing a claim or seeking resolution.
7. Can I transport my goods on passenger trains, or is it limited to freight trains?
Goods like air conditioner and washing machine in Indian Railway are usually transported on freight or cargo trains. Check with the railway authorities for specific guidelines and restrictions on passenger trains if you wish to avail the services of the same.
The rules and regulations vary depending on the state administration including the railway zones. One needs to enquire beforehand from the specific railway company that they are taking service from. Communicate with the railway officials to access accurate facts and figures and any other information that would be handy. With these tips, you can transport your air conditioner and washing machine in Indian Railway network without many hassles.