Major on-demand services such as Bounce, Vertoe and LuggageHero plus independent bag-drop shops keep walkable host locations within a 2–5 minute stroll of the main concourse at 34th Street and Seventh Avenue. Typical pricing ranges $6–$15 per day; some vendors offer hourly rates around $1–$3. Insurance or declared-value protection commonly tops out near $3,000 per item – review each provider’s policy before booking.
Book online, select a nearby host, and arrive with ID and your reservation QR code. Drop-off usually takes 5–10 minutes: the host tags your item, issues a receipt and records pickup details. Hosts may refuse oversized pieces, perishables and hazardous goods; verify size limits and prohibited-item lists prior to arrival.
Ticketed Amtrak passengers may use checked-baggage service on qualifying long-distance routes; contact the Amtrak baggage office at the 34th Street concourse to confirm availability, hours and fees. Local commuter carriers typically do not accept checked items.
Practical tips: reserve during morning and evening peaks at least 1–2 hours ahead, compare user reviews and cancellation terms, keep small valuables with you and photograph items before handover, and confirm late-pickup or after-hours procedures to avoid unexpected charges.
Bag drop options at Midtown Manhattan rail hub
Quick answer and primary alternatives
No coin-operated units exist inside the Midtown rail complex; use carrier checked-baggage when available, third-party bag-drop providers within a 5–10 minute walk, or same-day door-to-door delivery services that pick up and deliver items to a hotel or address.
Practical details, costs and safety tips
Official carriers: some long-distance Amtrak routes accept checked baggage–confirm acceptance and dimensions at the ticket counter inside Moynihan Train Hall before travel. Regional commuter lines normally require carry-on only; typical carry limits: up to about 50 lb and around 28×22×14 inches, but confirm with the specific operator.
Third-party bag-drop: app-driven vendors such as Bounce, Vertoe and Stasher display nearby partner shops and hotels that accept short-term drops. Typical rates run $5–$15 per item per day; some services charge by the hour. Reserve online to guarantee capacity during peak arrival windows.
At drop-off: photograph the exterior and any existing damage, attach your contact details if requested, keep the digital or printed receipt and show photo ID at pickup. Choose staffed locations with item-level insurance when storing electronics or fragile goods; many vendors list insurance limits on their booking pages.
Timing and access: partner shops often operate roughly 09:00–20:00 local time but hours change on weekends and holidays–check the app or call before arrival. Allow 10–15 extra minutes to complete check-in or claim procedures. Review refund and damage policies prior to booking.
Safety and hygiene: carry passports, wallets and high-value items on your person or use a hotel safe rather than dropping them. If personal-care items will be stored, clean reusable implements using manufacturer guidance such as this how to clean a back scrubber.
On-site bag options at NYC’s 34th Street rail hub – exact locations
Use commercial drop-off partners or Amtrak checked-bag counters; coin-operated bag units do not exist inside the rail complex.
- Amtrak checked-bag counter – located on the main concourse near the ticket windows and Amtrak customer desk. Service available only to ticketed Amtrak passengers; typical check-in deadline about 45 minutes prior to departure. Ask the Amtrak agent at arrival for exact counter placement.
- Retail partner network – multiple shops and luggage-drop kiosks positioned along 34th Street between 6th and 8th Avenues and at Herald Square (34th St & Broadway). Walking time from major entrances: roughly 1–8 minutes.
- Hotel bell desks – several Midtown hotels accept day bag deposits from non-guests; approach the hotel front desk directly and confirm fees and hours before arrival.
- Event-area services – during concerts and marquee events near Madison Square Garden, temporary bag-point operators set up on 7th and 8th Avenues; locations move with event routing, so check event maps or provider apps.
- Reserve a slot via an app or provider website to guarantee space; show the booking QR code at drop-off.
- Carry photo ID and keep the claim ticket; most providers require ID at pick-up and will refuse unidentified claims.
- Confirm size and weight limits in advance; oversized items often need special handling and may incur extra fees.
- Check opening hours before planning drop-off – many partner locations operate roughly 09:00–20:00, while some hotel desks or event services extend hours.
- Expect typical pricing of about $5–15 per day; some locations offer hourly rates or insurance add-ons.
If traveling on Amtrak, visit the ticket desk on the concourse immediately after arrival to learn about checked-bag eligibility and counter location; if using a commercial partner, choose the pickup point closest to your intended exit and book ahead to save time.
Unit sizes, pricing structure, payment methods and operating hours
Choose a medium unit (18×24×36 in) when stashing two large suitcases; small (12×16×18 in) fits a backpack plus a daypack; large (28×18×48 in) accommodates three full-size cases or sports gear.
- Small – 12×16×18 in; capacity: daypack + small bag; typical rate: $3 hourly or $8 daily.
- Medium – 18×24×36 in; capacity: two checked-size cases; typical rate: $5 hourly or $15 daily.
- Large – 28×18×48 in; capacity: three large cases or bulky items; typical rate: $8 hourly or $25 daily.
- Maximum retention commonly 7 days; extended holds available at extra daily charge $10–$20.
- Oversize or irregular items carry surcharge $10–$30 depending on provider and dimensions.
- Lost claim ticket or forced lock replacement fee ranges $25–$100.
- Declared-value coverage typically limited; declared-value purchase or separate insurance recommended for high-value contents (provider limits often $100–$200).
- Payment: major credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, AmEx).
- Contactless options: Apple Pay, Google Pay accepted at most automated units.
- Mobile apps and third-party platforms: prepaid reservations, QR-code check-in, digital receipts.
- Cash: accepted at staffed counters only; some counters require exact change.
- Keep the digital receipt or paper claim stub and photograph any barcode or PIN; that reduces pickup delays and dispute risk.
Manned counters typically operate 06:00–23:00 daily; retail partner locations generally run 08:00–20:00. Automated units sometimes offer 24/7 access, though overnight pickups can be restricted. Holiday hours often shortened on major US holidays. Drop-off at least 60 minutes prior to closing to avoid refusal of service.
Step‑by‑step: using a self‑service unit at New York’s main rail hub (payment, access codes, retrieval)
Use the operator’s app to reserve a compartment up to 24 hours ahead; arriving without a booking, use the nearest kiosk and pick any available unit. Carry the same payment card you plan to use at the terminal and a government ID in case staff verification becomes necessary.
Step | Action | Expected response / quick tip |
---|---|---|
1 – Reserve or walk up | Open app or tap kiosk, select an available unit, confirm start time and duration. | App shows unit number; kiosk prints a receipt. If short on time, choose the nearest visible unit to avoid extra walking. |
2 – Pay | Use contactless card, chip & PIN, Apple Pay or Google Pay at kiosk or in-app checkout. | Payment authorizes instantly; keep the email or SMS receipt. Avoid cash unless the terminal explicitly accepts it. |
3 – Receive access credential | Operator sends a numeric PIN (typically 4–6 digits) and/or a QR link to the app, SMS or printed receipt. | PIN or QR stays active during the paid window. Save a screenshot of the message; note unit number separately. |
4 – Store items | Place personal items inside the compartment, close the door fully, then engage the keypad or scan QR to lock. | Wait for green light and an audible beep as confirmation. Photograph the closed unit door with unit number visible (avoid photographing the PIN). |
5 – Extend rental | Open app or return to kiosk to add time; extension charges apply to the card on file. | Extensions are processed instantly on modern systems; do this while you still have access to the account used at booking. |
6 – Retrieve items | Enter the assigned PIN at the keypad or scan the QR at the unit; wait for door release. | Keep the receipt until you confirm all items retrieved. If the door fails to open, use the kiosk ‘Assistance’ button or the operator contact shown on the receipt. |
7 – Lost credential | Use the app’s recovery option or call the operator number printed on the kiosk receipt; be prepared to verify identity and recent payment. | Operator will typically require ID match or last‑four of the card used. Expect staff assistance rather than automatic remote override. |
8 – Safety rules | Avoid storing hazardous materials, per terminal rules; keep high‑value items with you when possible. | Review the operator’s terms shown on the kiosk screen; units are monitored by camera in many locations, but liability limits apply. |
Practical checklist: screenshot the QR/PIN, photograph unit number, keep phone charged, use the same payment method during pickup, and allow an extra 10–20 minutes at retrieval if you need staff help. If rain is forecast, bring a compact windproof umbrella: best golf umbrella for windy conditions.
Nearby staffed and third‑party bag‑drop services: comparison and how to reserve online
Book a third‑party bag‑drop via Vertoe, Bounce, Stasher or LuggageHero at least two hours ahead; expect typical pricing of $5–$15 per item per 24‑hour period and receive an instant QR confirmation used as a claim receipt.
Staffed counters (hotel desks, dedicated shops and local couriers) vs app‑based networks: staffed counters usually accept oversized cases, offer in‑person receipts and handle claims immediately; app networks list multiple businesses within walking distance, often cheaper, operate under fixed hourly or daily rates and depend on individual host opening hours.
Typical price structure: hourly options start around $1–$3 per hour (claimed by LuggageHero and similar), daily flat rates from $5.95–$12, and special rates for oversized items or long‑term holds. Insurance commonly ranges between $1,000 and $3,000 per item; some providers sell higher coverage at extra cost. Always verify coverage amount on the booking screen.
Payment methods accepted online: major credit/debit cards, Apple Pay/Google Pay on many apps, and sometimes PayPal. Cash payments may be possible only at staffed counters, not app hosts. Confirm accepted onsite payment methods in the listing details prior to arrival.
Reservation steps: open chosen website or app → enter “34th Street” or current address → pick a listed location and check operating hours → select drop‑off and pickup date/time and count of items → complete payment and save the QR/booking code → follow host instructions and present ID at drop‑off; keep booking confirmation until collection.
Pickup requirements and rules: present the QR or booking number plus matching photo ID; some hosts also ask for a printed receipt. Hosts typically refuse hazardous materials, perishable goods and weapons. Oversize fees and maximum weight limits appear in each listing; decline to leave items if the dimensions exceed host policy.
Cancellation and refunds: many providers allow free cancellation up to 24 hours before drop‑off; same‑day cancellations often non‑refundable or subject to partial refund. Review the cancellation policy on the checkout page and save the confirmation email as proof.
Quick checklist to complete reservation successfully: compare price and insurance on at least two apps, confirm operating hours of chosen location, book 2+ hours ahead during peak times, screenshot QR and booking number, carry photo ID at drop‑off, and confirm any oversize fees prior to payment.
Security, claims, prohibited items and what to check before leaving your bags
Use an insured, staffed bag‑drop operator when valuables exceed typical carry‑on worth and when guaranteed reimbursement matters.
Immediate security checks: verify presence of on‑site CCTV, staffed patrols, tamper‑evident seals and unique access credentials (PIN, QR code, physical key). Confirm that the operator issues a printed ticket with a visible claim number and explicit liability cap. Photograph exterior condition of each item and create a timestamped inventory list with serial numbers for electronics prior to handing items over.
Items never to abandon: explosives, blasting agents, fireworks, corrosive acids and alkalis, flammable liquids and gases, compressed gas cylinders, industrial chemicals, oxidizers, illicit drugs, human remains, live animals, unaccompanied spare lithium‑ion battery packs, large quantities of cash, passports and original legal papers, loose precious stones, high‑value jewelry. Do not leave prescription medicines that you will need while away; keep them with you.
High‑value handling rules: remove passports, cash, jewelry, primary cameras and laptop hard drives. If an operator offers declared‑value insurance, obtain the written declaration and retain the paid receipt. Many private vendors exclude jewelry, cash and irreplaceable documents from coverage or cap payout per item; check exact limits printed on the receipt.
What to confirm at drop‑off: operating hours, maximum hold duration, daily or extended‑stay fees, accepted payment methods, emergency contact phone number, ID required to retrieve, access method to regain items (PIN/QR/code/desk), and the abandonment policy including number of days until disposal or auction. Ensure the ticket shows the retrieval deadline and the provider’s published liability amount.
Claims procedure: retain the ticket and all photos. File a claim via the vendor’s online form or phone within 24–72 hours of an incident; include itemized list, serial numbers, purchase receipts or appraisal, photos and ticket number. If theft or criminal damage occurred, obtain a police report and attach it to the claim. Expect processing time measured in days to weeks; escalate to your card issuer or travel insurer using the vendor’s claim reference if resolution stalls.
Missed pickup and abandonment: providers typically apply extra‑day charges, then classify items as abandoned after a set interval (commonly 3–14 days). That leads to disposal, donation or auction under the operator’s policy. Verify the exact timeframe printed on the ticket and arrange extensions before the deadline to avoid loss and extra charges.
Emergency and special requests: if urgent access is required outside posted hours, call the emergency number on the ticket immediately; expect an expedited retrieval fee and identity verification. For items requiring temperature control, humidity control or special handling (musical instruments, medical equipment), use a staffed, specialty handler with documented procedures rather than an unattended unit.
Final checklist prior to handover: ticket printed and photographed, claim number recorded, operator’s liability limit confirmed, ID match verified, contents inventory completed, high‑value items removed, prohibited items excluded, emergency contact saved, retrieval deadline noted. Keep digital copies of every document and timestamped images until full retrieval and inspection.
FAQ:
Are there luggage storage lockers available inside Penn Station (New York)?
No. Penn Station does not offer public coin-operated lockers. Security rules and space limitations mean there are no self-service lockers for travelers inside the terminal. If you need to stow bags, you can use Amtrak checked baggage (for ticketed passengers on eligible trains) or turn to nearby commercial luggage storage services that operate drop-off locations in the area.
Can I check my suitcase with Amtrak at Penn Station, and what are the rules?
Yes, Amtrak provides checked baggage service at Penn Station for many long-distance routes and some regional trains, but it is not available for every departure. To use it you must have a ticket for a train that allows checked baggage. Check-in deadlines, fees, and size/weight limits vary by service; generally you should arrive well before departure to complete the process. Verify baggage availability and exact limits on Amtrak’s website or by calling their customer service before you plan to check a bag.
Where can I find short-term luggage storage near Penn Station and how much does it cost?
Several third-party companies operate bag-drop locations within a short walk of Penn Station. Providers such as Bounce, Vertoe, LuggageHero and similar networks list local shops, hotels and kiosks that accept luggage. Prices typically run from a few dollars per hour up to a daily rate: common ranges are about $5–$10 per day per bag, though exact amounts depend on provider, size of bag and how long you store it. Many services let you book online, show available locations on a map, and include a basic insurance amount; compare listings and recent user reviews before booking.
Are there limits on bag size, storage duration or items that can’t be left with commercial luggage services?
Yes. Each provider sets rules for maximum dimensions and weight, daily or hourly storage caps, and prohibited contents. Dangerous goods, firearms, perishable foods and highly valuable items (jewelry, large sums of cash, original ID documents) are often restricted. Long-term storage may carry extra fees. Always read the service’s terms, check what insurance or liability they offer, and make sure the drop location’s hours cover your pick-up time.
Is it safe to leave valuables with a third-party bag-drop near Penn Station and how can I reduce risk?
Many services operate safely, but risk varies by provider and location. To reduce exposure, avoid leaving irreplaceable valuables or original documents; carry them with you instead. Before booking, review the provider’s liability limits and whether insurance is included or available for purchase. Take clear photos of your items, keep the receipt and booking confirmation, and choose a well-reviewed, established company with a physical storefront or verified host. If you have a ticket for an Amtrak train that accepts checked baggage, that option can offer a clearer chain of custody for larger pieces.