Coach position codes explained: B1, A1, H1, S1, M1 and more
A plain guide to the coach codes you see on coach position charts and where to stand on the platform.
A coach position chart lists the coaches of a train in order from the engine. Standing near the right spot before the train arrives saves a sprint down the platform with luggage. Here is what the codes mean.
Reserved classes
| Code | Class | What it is |
|---|---|---|
| H | 1A | First AC, lockable cabins |
| HA | 1A + 2A | Composite coach with both classes |
| A | 2A | AC two tier sleeper |
| B | 3A | AC three tier sleeper |
| M | 3E | AC three tier economy |
| S | SL | Sleeper class, non AC |
| E | EC | Executive chair car (day trains) |
| C | CC | AC chair car (day trains) |
| D | 2S | Second sitting, reserved seats |
Other coaches you will see
- ENG: the locomotive.
- GEN or GS: general (unreserved) coach.
- PC: pantry car, where meals are prepared.
- SLR, LPR or SLRD: guard, luggage and parcel vans, often at both ends. SLRD includes a compartment for passengers with disabilities.
- EOG or PP: power cars that supply electricity to the coaches.
- VP: parcel van.
Reading the order
The chart starts from the engine end. At most stations the engine faces the direction of travel, so the first coach on the chart stops furthest along the platform in the direction the train is going. Some trains reverse direction at junctions (the locomotive moves to the other end), and the order then flips for the rest of the journey. When a train has a reversal we show the order that applies after it.
Coach numbers can change
Railways occasionally add coaches, swap a coach for maintenance or run a train with a different rake. The chart we show comes from the latest live data for that train, and the stated date tells you how recent it is. The coach indicator boards on the platform are updated for each arrival, so use them to confirm your spot.
