How do I label my SNCF luggage?

Luggage tagging is mandatory for all your SNCF train journeys, including TGV InOui trains. Whether you're traveling by plane or transporting your luggage by train , this measure allows staff to contact you if your belongings are lost or left behind. It also helps prevent abandoned luggage, which can disrupt security and train journeys.

Comparison of luggage labeling solutions for SNCF

Rules and solutions for labeling your SNCF luggage

Luggage tagging is a legal requirement whenever you travel on TGV, TGV InOui, or other SNCF national rail services. This requirement, stemming from the French Transport Code, aims to protect your belongings by allowing staff to contact you quickly if they are lost or forgotten. Be aware that failure to comply with this requirement can result in a fine of up to €750 , and untagged luggage may even be destroyed if left on board or at the station.

To comply with this requirement, several options are available for obtaining a luggage tag. SNCF offers free tags , available directly at stations and on board trains from staff.

These traditional tags allow you to clearly write your name, surname, postal address, and telephone number on each suitcase, bag, or carry-on luggage. For a more modern option, SNCF also offers tags with QR codes , which are also free and available in train stations.

These anonymized labels offer a secure solution: your data is stored online, thus protecting your privacy . Only SNCF agents can access your details if needed.

For frequent travelers or those seeking personalized solutions, ready-made luggage tags can be purchased online before departure. These tags can be customized to your preferred style or size .

Whether you're travelling on a TGV InOui, Intercités, or any other SNCF service, this labelling requirement applies equally to all your luggage. The key is to ensure your belongings are clearly identifiable and that staff can contact you quickly if needed.

Rules and labeling requirements for your train journeys

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

Unidentified or abandoned luggage immediately triggers a suspicious package procedure. This brings trains to a standstill and causes significant delays that affect all passengers. Therefore, luggage tagging plays a crucial role in preventing these disruptions and ensuring the smooth flow of rail traffic.

Is labeling mandatory on the SNCF network?

Yes, luggage tagging is mandatory on all SNCF train journeys as well as with all other rail operators. This legal requirement applies to every passenger, without exception, regardless of the type of train used: TGV, TER, Intercités, or other services. Failure to comply with this obligation exposes the offender to a fixed penalty fine (third class), as stipulated in Article R. 2241-20 of the French Transport Code.

In addition to the fine, untagged luggage that is abandoned or forgotten may be considered suspicious packages. This requires the involvement of security forces and may result in the destruction of the luggage, in accordance with applicable security protocols. This procedure also causes significant delays, disrupting all rail traffic and affecting passengers.

Luggage tagging therefore goes beyond the simple legal framework: it is an essential element to guarantee collective safety and the proper functioning of the railway network.

Essential information to include (name, surname, contact details)

To ensure your luggage tag is functional and compliant, several pieces of personal information must be clearly printed on it: your full name, mobile phone number, and postal address or email address. This information must be written clearly , either handwritten or printed, so that authorized SNCF staff or security forces can contact you quickly if your luggage is lost or abandoned.

To protect your personal information and improve the durability of your label, we highly recommend using clear plastic label holders. These accessories protect the label from moisture and wear while you're on the go.

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 for obtaining luggage tags before your SNCF train journey. Free options at the station offer immediate access, while printing at home via the online service allows for advance and personalized preparation. For those seeking durable and attractive tags, personalized leather or PVC tags are an ideal choice. They are more resistant to wear and tear during transport and make it easier to visually identify your luggage on your TGV journeys.

Each solution offers 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 process is simple: log in to the dedicated platform, enter your personal 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 regular paper or adhesive paper with any printer.

Once printed, it is recommended to protect your labels with clear tape to make them more durable and moisture-resistant during your travels. This digital solution saves you a trip to the station and allows you to pack your luggage at your own pace, without any extra charges.

Collect free labels at the ticket counters in the station

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 ticket counters, information desks, and in some stations via dedicated self-service kiosks. They are standard cardboard tags, easy to fill out: simply write your first and last name and phone number by hand 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 tag your luggage before your departure.

Use a personalized or homemade label

If you travel frequently or want more durable and stylish luggage, personalized leather or PVC tags are an excellent option. They offer superior longevity compared to cardboard tags and add a personal touch to your bags. These tags are more resistant to the bumps, moisture, and friction encountered during high-speed train travel. Furthermore, they make it easier to quickly locate your belongings among other luggage at the station or on board.

For a DIY (Do It Yourself) approach, you can create your own labels using laminated cardstock, which you can personalize with your contact information and a distinctive design. This creative solution allows you to express your style while still complying with labeling requirements. Finally, travel accessory shops offer a wide range of customizable labels made from premium materials, with various designs and engraving options for truly unique gear.

Practical tips for securing your belongings

To ensure the safety of your suitcases and bags during your train journey, adopt a few simple but effective best practices. First, choose the ideal location for your luggage tag and practice double-tagging : one tag on the outside and another on the inside of your luggage. Don't forget to remove any old tags or barcodes from previous trips that could cause confusion.

In addition, equip your luggage with a TSA lock or a combination lock strap. Secure them firmly to the racks on board the trains. This practice, authorized by SNCF, not only deters opportunistic theft but also makes storing and securing your belongings easier.

Where do you attach the tag to your suitcase or cabin bag?

Attach your luggage tag to the top main handle of your suitcase or carry-on bag. Make sure the attachment is secure and can withstand handling by cabin crew and the movement of the train. Avoid flimsy, removable straps that could come loose.

Choose a location that offers immediate visibility to security officers and agents. This strategic position allows for quick identification of your luggage in the event of a check or incident, without the need for excessive handling.

The usefulness of the tag for finding lost luggage

A properly filled-out luggage tag is essential for finding your belongings. Thanks to this simple precaution, SNCF returns over 90% of lost luggage through its dedicated lost and found procedure. In case of loss, they will contact you directly by phone or email for quick and efficient identification .

This significantly speeds up the return process, often transforming a potential loss into a simple oversight recovered within hours. Many travelers report having their belongings returned undamaged after a TGV journey. Conversely, without a tag, delays increase and the risk of non-return rises, thus demonstrating the importance of this simple yet essential measure for securing your possessions.

Luggage storage and lockers available during your journey

On TGV trains, you'll find dedicated luggage racks located either at the end of the carriage or in the middle of the train. Overhead storage is also available for standard-sized suitcases . For larger items, specific areas are provided near the doors. However, it's important to note that you are responsible for keeping an eye on your belongings throughout the journey, as no assisted storage service is offered on board.

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

Luggage policies vary depending on the SNCF service:

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

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

TER: Luggage is free and without restriction on the number of bags, as long as each piece does not exceed 130 x 90 cm and you can carry them alone.

Automatic or manual lockers at the station

Many SNCF train stations are equipped with automatic or manual lockers , available in cities such as Paris, Lyon, Marseille, Bordeaux, and Lille. Prices vary depending on the locker size, ranging from approximately €5 to €15 for 24 hours. The maximum storage period is generally 48 hours. You can pay by credit card or cash. For security purposes, each item is X-rayed before being stored.

Conclusion

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

To label your luggage, you have several options: use free tags available at the station, opt for an online e-tag , or invest in more durable models. Attach them securely to the top handle of your luggage and, for added security, consider adding a TSA lock .

Take advantage of the dedicated luggage areas and lockers available at the station for a stress-free journey. Don't waste any time: prepare your luggage tags now, secure your suitcases, and travel with peace of mind on your next trip!

FAQ

What information must I write on my SNCF luggage tag?

To comply with SNCF's luggage labeling requirements, you must clearly and legibly write the following information: last name , first name , postal address , and telephone number . This labeling is mandatory for all luggage and must be visible to prevent loss or damage.

Where can I get free luggage tags at SNCF train stations?

You can obtain free luggage tags for your SNCF journeys directly at customer service counters or information desks in stations. You can also print them using the E-Ticket service on the SNCF website (this service may be temporarily unavailable). Please note that the tag must include at least your name and phone number .

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

If your luggage isn't tagged, it becomes unidentifiable , which can prevent you from receiving compensation in case of loss or delay, according to carrier regulations. Furthermore, it increases the risk of your luggage not being found at the carousel, passenger errors, or improperly attached tags coming loose. 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 trains?

On board TGV INOUI and INTERCITÉS trains, each passenger can carry up to two 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, only one piece is allowed with maximum dimensions of 90x130x50 cm, in addition to a hand luggage item.