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
6D44	0D44	1136 BESCOT UP ENGINEERS SDGS to TOTON NORTH YARD	Today
4R48	6R48	0630 DRAX POWER STATION to IMMINGHAM BIOMASS LP (DBC)	Today
6X49	6D49	0542 TOTON NORTH YARD to BEESTON SIDINGS	Today
4M87	4R87	1113 FELIXSTOWE NORTH F.L.T. to TRAFFORD PARK F.L.T.	Today
4C14	6C14	1000 DRIGG BNF to SHAP SUMMIT QUARRY	Today
4M42	0M42	0223 LONDON GATEWAY FRGHTLINER to TRAFFORD PARK F.L.T.	Today
6D97	6D97	0139 LACKENBY B.S.C. to SCUNTHORPE B.S.C.(ENT.C.)	Today
6M15	4M15	0336 STOURTON CEMEX GBRF to PEAK FOREST CEMEX GBRF	Today
6D97	0D97	0139 LACKENBY B.S.C. to SCUNTHORPE B.S.C.(ENT.C.)	Today
6E04	0E04	0213 WHITEMOOR YARD L.D.C GBRF to DONCASTER UP DECOY	Today