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
6O36	0O36	2058 WHITEMOOR YARD L.D.C GBRF to HOO JUNCTION UP YARD	Today
6H98	4H98	2037 BANBURY RESERVOIR TARMAC to TUNSTEAD SDGS GBRF	Today
6M68	4M68	1946 DRAX AES (GBRF) to LIVERPOOL BIOMASS TML GBF	Today
6L63	4L63	2030 BARNBY DUN ROC. GLASS GBRF to MARCH UP YARD GBRF	Today
7Y43	0Y43	1959 EASTLEIGH EAST YARD to HOO JUNCTION UP YARD	Today
6V31	0V31	2013 EASTLEIGH EAST YARD to WESTBURY DOWN T.C.	Today
7C99	6C99	2035 THEALE FOSTER YEO. (FLHH) to MEREHEAD QUARRY (FHH)	Today
6B20	0B20	1850 TROSTRE WORKS to MARGAM T.C.	Today
7V70	6Z70	1851 WEMBLEY RECEPTIONS 1-7 to WHATLEY QUARRY F LINER HH	Today
7C66	0C66	1907 WOOTTON BASSETT F.Y. (FLHH to MEREHEAD QUARRY (FHH)	Today