Railway Train Numbering Reform to Be Implemented in Two Phases
China Railway Group has initiated a nationwide reform of train numbering, planning to adjust the current letter prefixes and numerical ranges in two batches by late November and late December 2026. The number of letter prefixes for EMU passenger trains will increase from four to seven, expanding the potential number of train codes by nearly 40%. The first batch will cover regular-speed, tourist, and freight trains, while the second will address high-speed, intercity, and suburban services.
China Railway Group has initiated a nationwide reform of train number scheduling for its railway network. The plan involves adjusting the prefix letters and numerical ranges of current train numbers in two batches, scheduled for late November and late December 2026. The number of prefixes for EMU passenger trains will increase from 4 to 7, boosting the potential number of train codes by nearly 40%.
The first batch will adjust the train numbers for regular-speed, tourist, and freight services, while the second batch will cover high-speed, intercity, and suburban trains. Following the reform, the train routes and schedules will remain consistent with the current operating timetable. Passengers are advised to verify the old and new train number information through channels such as China Railway 12306.
CCTV News
