Although porterage service may not be as prevalent as it once was in airports and train stations across France, it is still a service that is offered by some companies.
There are several reasons why this type of service may be beneficial for travelers, especially those who are carrying a lot of luggage. However, porterage service can be confused with luggage delivery.
Here is a look at what porterage service is, how much it may cost, and how to find companies that still offer this type of service in France.
Disclaimer : make sure you find the right service, for your need. There is a difference between Luggage porterage service and Luggage delivery. Depending on your means of transportation (Flight or train), the number of luggage and the place you travel to, porterage may be required along with a luggage shipment.
Porterage and luggage delivery, clarifying the difference
Porterage service is essentially a way to have someone else help you with your luggage, for a very short period of time. Usually, the Porters will carry your bags from the Plane to outside the Airport or from the train wagon to outside of the train station.
This service be especially helpful if you are traveling with a lot of heavy luggages or with young children in train station or airport.
However, be aware the porters will not carry the bag any further than that.
Note : make sure to investigate your luggage allowance in trains and flights. Porters may not be needed if you excess luggage allowances. In that case, Luggage delivery may be required. Check our article HERE.
A luggage delivery service will assist you with transferring your bags from train station or airport to any address, and vice versa.
The advantage is that not only will you have a porter assistance if needed, but the luggage will be delivered exactly where you need it to be.
When to arrange for a porter service versus a delivery service ?
You should arrange for a porter service if you are overloaded with luggages, at least more than you can/want to carry or to prevent injuries while loading racks or climbing stairs.
You should book a delivery service when 1) you are in no condition to carry your luggage at all, 2) your luggages don't fit in one taxi, 3) if your luggages excess the train/Flight allowances.
Porter services are available in all major train stations and airports in France
Railroad companies SNCF and RATP provide porter services in their respective stations. However, the porterage service is only made available for disabled travelers or with mobility condition. You will need paper work to justify it. Also, be aware, only the travelers in such condition is allowed to book the service and is limited to 1 piece of luggage of 17 kg. Porter services are also available at Charles de Gaulle and Orly airports. You will have to book a Meet and Greet option to benefit from such service HERE, apart from travelers with mobility issue. In such case, please contact your airline, they will organise everything for you.
How much Porter services costs ?
How much porterage service may cost can vary depending on the company that you use, where you book Train or Airport, and the length of time that you need the service. The cost may vary from 10€ a luggage up to 250€ for 4 luggages for exemple.
How to book or arrange a porter service in France at airport or train station ?
There are a few different ways to find companies that offer porterage service in France. One option is to search online. Another option is to ask around at your hotel or at the airport or train station. You may also be able to find information about companies that offer porterage service in France in travel guidebooks.
When making travel plans, remember to book porter services in advance. This will ensure that you have a porter available when you need one.
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Alfred is specialised in luggage transfer, luggage delivery, luggage storage and luggage porters, in Paris, Nice, Bordeaux, Nantes, Marseilles, Avignon, Strasbourg and many other cities...
If you are usure what to do or who to book, give a call or book with us.