Headcode Search

Searching By Headcode

Use the search functions above to search for train services by signalling ID / headcode. Optionally, choose a date and operator.

Similarly to the live train times search, results will be shown in order of departure, along with their live running information.

You can use this feature to search by:

• Regular service headcode
• Altered headcode from change of ID

Understanding a Headcode

A headcode is a 4 character code used to identify trains across the UK rail network. Headcodes follow a number-letter-number-number sequence.

The First Number

The first number identifies the class of train, as outlined below:

• 1 Fast trains, test trains (usually PLPR) and rescue trains (1Z99).
• 2 Slower trains with more stops (2Z and 2Q may be special trains)
• 3 Test trains and priority ECS workings
• 4 Faster running freight workings
• 5 Empty coaching stock moves
• 6 60mph max freight such as aggregate and petroleum traffic
• 7 45mph max freight
• 8 Slow workings
• 9 Services that are subject to special operating requirements on certain parts of the network

The number may change after train activation, such as if the train is running light engine instead of its booked load, or if the consist uses slower wagon vehicles than those planned.

The Letter

For passenger services, the letter is often to identify a route a train will take (eg C might be used for Brighton to Seaford services, while M might be used for Brighton to Victoria). For freight, letters often designate its region of origin but that's not always the case. Here are some common headcode letters and what they often mean.

• Q Network Rail workings and stock moves
• X Services out of gauge
• Z Short Term Plan workings
• S Scotland originating freight
• V Great Western originating freight including Acton
• M Midlands originating freight
• G (Engineers) GBRF
• Y (Engineers) Freightliner
• R (Engineers) DBC (often also uses N and T)
• C (Engineers) Colas

The Last Two Numbers

Usually the last two numbers refer to the time of departure and with passenger services these will usually increment throughout the day.

Headcode Examples

• 1A01 An express passenger service, likely the first of the day as the last two digits are low.
• 3Q03 A test train, probably worked by a class 37.
• 6V00 A freight train max speed 60mph, probably aggregates or petroleum.

Latest Service Changes

Old HC	New HC	Service	Runs
4R87	0R87	1113 FELIXSTOWE NORTH F.L.T. to IPSWICH S.S.	Today
7M44	6M44	1139 NEASDEN CHARRINGTON FLHH to WEMBLEY RECEPTIONS 1-7	Today
7M46	6M46	1045 BRENTFORD TOWN DAYS FLHH to WEMBLEY RECEPTIONS 1-7	Today
6M34	4M34	0545 DRAX AES (GBRF) to TUEBROOK SDGS GBRF	Today
6O92	7O92	0406 HOO JUNCTION DOWN YARD to CLIFFE BRETT MARINE	Today
6V25	0V25	0433 BESCOT UP ENGINEERS SDGS to HINKSEY SDGS	Today
6M11	6M11	2359 MARGAM T.C. to ROUND OAK	Yesterday
6E16	0E16	0310 TOTON NORTH YARD to DONCASTER UP DECOY	Today
6K02	6K02	0208 BESCOT UP ENGINEERS SDGS to CREWE BAS HALL S.S.M.	Today
6F44	4F44	0408 WASHWOOD HEATH UP SIDINGS to ARPLEY SIDINGS	Today