How do I label my SNCF luggage?

SNCF luggage labeling is mandatory for all your TGV train journeys, including TGV InOui. Whether you are traveling by plane or carrying our luggage for the train, this measure allows staff to contact you if your belongings are lost or forgotten. It also helps prevent unattended luggage, which can disrupt security and travel.

Comparison of labeling solutions for your SNCF luggage

Rules and solutions for labeling your SNCF luggage

Luggage labeling is a legal obligation whenever you travel by TGV, TGV InOui, or other SNCF national rail services. This requirement, stemming from the Transport Code, is intended to protect your belongings by allowing staff to contact you quickly if they are lost or forgotten. Be aware that failing to comply with this requirement can lead to a fine of up to 750 euros, and your unlabeled luggage may even be destroyed if left unattended on board or in the station.

To meet this obligation, several options are available for obtaining a luggage tag. SNCF provides free tags, available directly at stations and on board trains from staff.

These traditional tags allow you to visibly write your last name, first name, postal address, and phone number on each suitcase, bag, or piece of hand luggage. For a more modern option, SNCF also provides QR code tags, which are also free and available in stations.

These anonymized tags offer a secure solution: your data is saved online, thus preserving your privacy. Only SNCF staff can access your contact details if needed.

For frequent travelers or those looking for personalized solutions, it is possible to purchase ready-to-use luggage tags online before your departure. These tags can be adapted to your style or format preferences.

Whether you are traveling on TGV InOui, Intercités lines, or any other SNCF service, this labeling obligation applies uniformly to all your luggage. The essential point is to ensure that your belongings are clearly identifiable and that staff can reach you quickly if necessary.

Labeling rules and obligations for your train journeys

The labeling of your luggage is regulated by Article L2241-1 of the Transport Code, which serves as the legal foundation for this requirement. This rule applies to all rail carriers, whether it is SNCF, TGV InOui, or any other operator in France. Beyond legal compliance, this requirement addresses significant security and counter-terrorism issues, particularly within the framework of the Vigipirate plan.

Unidentified or abandoned luggage immediately triggers a suspicious package procedure. This immobilizes trains and causes significant delays that affect all passengers. Labeling therefore plays an essential role in preventing these disruptions and ensuring the fluidity of rail traffic.

Is labeling mandatory on the SNCF network?

Yes, luggage labeling is mandatory on all SNCF rail journeys as well as with all rail carriers. This legal requirement applies to every traveler, without exception, regardless of the type of train used: TGV, TER, Intercités, or other services. Non-compliance with this obligation exposes the offender to a third-class fixed fine, as provided for in Article R. 2241-20 of the Transport Code.

In addition to the financial penalty, unlabeled luggage that is abandoned or forgotten may be considered suspicious packages. This mobilizes security forces and can lead to their destruction, in accordance with the security protocols in force. This procedure also causes significant delays, disrupting all rail traffic and travelers.

Luggage labeling therefore goes beyond the simple legal framework: it is an indispensable element for ensuring collective safety and the proper functioning of the rail network.

Essential information to include (name, first name, contact)

For your luggage tag to be functional and compliant, several personal details must be written on it legibly: your full name, mobile phone number, and your postal address or email. This information must be written clearly, whether by hand or printed, so that authorized SNCF staff or security forces can contact you quickly in case of loss or abandonment of your luggage.

To protect your personal information and improve the durability of your tag, it is highly recommended to use transparent plastic tag holders. These accessories protect the tag from moisture and wear during your travels.

By taking this simple precaution, you ensure that your contact details remain legible throughout your journey and facilitate your identification if needed.

Solutions for obtaining a luggage tag

You have several options to equip yourself with a luggage tag before your SNCF train journey. Solutions free of charge at stations offer immediate accessibility, while printing at home via the online service allows for proactive and personalized preparation. For those looking for durable and aesthetic equipment, personalized leather or PVC tags are an ideal option. They resist wear from transport better and facilitate visual identification of your luggage during your TGV train journeys.

Each solution presents specific advantages in terms of convenience, cost, and resistance to travel conditions.

Download and print via the SNCF online service

SNCF offers a completely free service called e-Tiquette, accessible via its website or mobile app. This service allows you to download and print your luggage tags directly from home. The procedure is simple: log in to the dedicated platform, enter your personal contact details (last name, first name, postal address, phone number), then select the tag format that best suits your suitcases or bags. A PDF file is then generated, ready to be printed on standard or adhesive paper using any printer.

Once printed, it is recommended to protect your tags with transparent tape to make them more durable and resistant to moisture during your travels. This paperless solution saves you from going to the station and allows you to prepare your luggage at your own pace, at no extra cost.

Pick up free tags at station counters

For an immediate solution, you can obtain free luggage tags directly from SNCF staff at stations or on board trains. These tags are available at sales counters, help desks, and in some stations, via dedicated self-service kiosks. These are standard cardboard models, simple to fill out: you just need to manually write your name, first name, and phone number with a pen.

Although they offer basic protection compared to personalized tags, they remain completely free and are a practical solution if you have forgotten to label your luggage before your departure.

Use a personalized or homemade tag

If you travel frequently or want equipment that is more durable and aesthetic, personalized leather or PVC tags are an excellent option. They offer superior longevity to cardboard models and add a personal touch to your luggage. These tags better withstand the impacts, moisture, and friction encountered during transport on TGV trains. Furthermore, they facilitate quick identification of your belongings among other luggage in the station or on board.

For a DIY (Do It Yourself) approach, you can create your own tags using laminated cardboard that you customize with your contact details and a distinctive design. This creative solution allows you to express your style while complying with the labeling obligation. Finally, shops specializing in travel accessories offer a wide range of customizable tags in premium materials, with varied patterns and engraving options for truly unique equipment.

Practical tips to secure your belongings

To ensure the security of your suitcases and bags during your train journey, adopt a few simple but effective best practices. First, choose the ideal location for your tag and practice double labeling: one tag on the outside and another inside your luggage. Do not forget to remove old tags or barcodes from past trips that could create confusion.

Additionally, equip your luggage with a TSA padlock or a code-operated anti-theft strap. Attach them firmly to the racks on board the trains. This practice, authorized by SNCF, not only deters opportunistic theft but also facilitates the storage and security of your belongings.

Where to attach the tag on your suitcase or cabin bag?

Attach your tag to the main top handle of your suitcase or cabin bag. Ensure the attachment is solid, capable of withstanding handling by onboard staff and the movement of the train. Avoid fragile removable straps that risk coming loose.

Prefer a location offering immediate visibility for conductors and staff. This strategic position allows for quick identification of your luggage in case of an inspection or incident, without the need for excessive handling.

The usefulness of the tag for finding lost luggage

A well-filled tag is an essential tool for recovering your belongings. Thanks to this simple precaution, SNCF returns more than 90% of lost luggage via its dedicated lost-and-found procedure. In case of loss, they contact you directly by phone or email for quick and effective identification.

This significantly speeds up the recovery process, often turning a potential loss into a simple case of forgetfulness recovered within a few hours. Many travelers testify to having recovered their belongings intact after a TGV trip. In contrast, without a tag, wait times increase and the risks of non-recovery rise, thus proving the importance of this simple but essential measure for securing your goods.

Luggage areas and lockers during your journey

On TGV trains, you will find racks dedicated to luggage located either at the end of the carriage or in the middle of the train cars. Spaces above the seats are also available for standard-sized suitcases. For bulky luggage, specific areas are set up near the doors. However, it is important to note that you are responsible for monitoring your belongings throughout the journey, as no assisted storage service is offered on board.

Dimensions and carriage rules according to trains (TGV INOUI, OUIGO, TER)

Luggage policies vary according to SNCF services:

TGV INOUI: Carriage is free and allows for up to 2 items of luggage with maximum dimensions of 70 x 90 x 50 cm, one piece of hand luggage measuring 40 x 30 x 15 cm, as well as one special item of luggage up to 90 x 130 x 50 cm.

OUIGO: The rules are stricter. One cabin bag measuring 55 x 35 x 25 cm is included in the fare. Any additional or bulky luggage (up to 130 x 90 x 50 cm and 30 kg) requires a supplement of €5 per trip. The OUIGO PLUS offer sometimes includes this supplement.

TER: Carriage is free and without restriction on the number of items, provided that each piece does not exceed 130 x 90 cm and that you can carry them alone.

Automatic or manual lockers in stations

Many SNCF stations are equipped with automatic or manual lockers, available in cities such as Paris, Lyon, Marseille, Bordeaux, and Lille. Rates vary depending on the size of the locker, ranging from approximately €5 to €15 for 24 hours. The maximum storage duration is generally 48 hours. You can pay by bank card or cash. To ensure security, each deposit is subject to an X-ray scan before being stored.

Conclusion

In summary, labeling your SNCF luggage with your name, first name, phone number, and address is a mandatory legal requirement. This helps avoid fines, the destruction of your luggage, or even disruptions to rail traffic. This rule applies to all trains, including TGV InOui, OUIGO, and TER.

To label your luggage, several options are available to you: use free tags available in stations, opt for the online e-Tiquette, or invest in more durable models. Attach them securely to the top handle of your luggage and, for increased security, consider adding a TSA padlock.

Also take advantage of the dedicated luggage areas and lockers available in stations for a journey with complete peace of mind. Do not waste time: prepare your tags now, secure your suitcases, and travel with peace of mind on your next trip!

FAQ

What information must I mandatory include on my SNCF luggage tag?

To comply with the SNCF luggage labeling requirement, you must include the following information in a clear and legible manner: last name, first name, postal address, and phone number. This labeling is mandatory for all luggage and must be visible to prevent any loss or damage.

Where can I obtain free tags to label my luggage at an SNCF station?

You can obtain free tags for your SNCF luggage directly at customer service desks or information counters in the station. You also have the option of printing them via the E-Tiquette service on the SNCF website (this service may be temporarily unavailable). Remember that labeling must include at least your name and your phone number.

What are the consequences if I do not comply with the obligation to label my luggage?

If your luggage is not labeled, it becomes unidentifiable, which may prevent any compensation in the event of loss or delay, in accordance with the carriers' rules. Furthermore, it increases the risk of not finding your luggage at the carousel, passenger errors, or the detachment of poorly fixed tags. Also remember to keep your flight tag to avoid any risk of fraud.

What are the maximum dimensions allowed for luggage on board TGV INOUI and INTERCITÉS?

On board TGV INOUI and INTERCITÉS, each passenger can carry up to 2 pieces of luggage with maximum dimensions of 70x90x50 cm, as well as one piece of hand luggage measuring 40x30x15 cm. All luggage must be labeled and light enough to be carried by one person.

For special luggage, one item is allowed with maximum dimensions of 90x130x50 cm, in addition to one piece of hand luggage.