Train journeys are becoming ever more popular. For instance, in Europe by 2028, trains will rack up a huge 679 billion passenger kilometers. The US is even to utilize the railways more, too, with 26.85 billion passenger kilometers in 2019 despite trains not being the most popular method of transport. But, that’s set to change, as infrastructure across the US improves, and with the introduction of QR codes which are set to make the experience even more pleasurable. 

In this article from MyQRCode, we’ll be exploring how the implementation of QR codes for railways will completely change the game. Whether it’s for streamlining ticket purchases or improving the travel planning process, they’re an implementation that shouldn’t be ignored. So, let’s jump in!

Why Choose QR Codes for Railways?

Versatile and functional, QR codes optimize ticketing, scheduling, and feedback collection for railways. Accessible across devices, they simplify journey planning, ticket purchases, and service inquiries. It’s all about the increased passenger experience, which is sure to make a huge dent on the whole industry.

Advantages of QR Codes for Railway: Improved Passenger Experience

QR codes are already being used on railways. Passengers can often see them on ads placed within railcars. Unfortunately, it’s taken a little while longer for rail companies themselves to implement QR codes for railways. But they’re beginning to get involved, and have seen a number of advancements.

QR codes have significantly boosted service reliability, with QR codes ensuring passengers receive the latest information, increasing the trust in railway services. Moreover, QR codes have proven instrumental in reducing ticketing errors by up to 30%, according to Railway Gazette, improving both efficiency and customer satisfaction. Forbes reports a 25% reduction in passenger queuing times, underscoring the efficiency of QR code implementation in railways.

Feedback collection via QR codes has also seen a remarkable improvement, with a 40% increase in response rates over traditional methods, as per CNBC. This direct communication channel allows for swift identification and rectification of service issues, tailoring services to better meet passenger needs. The adoption of QR codes has not only spurred a 20% increase in mobile ticket purchases, as highlighted by The Guardian, but also led to a 15% uplift in customer satisfaction ratings for railway services, Reuters notes. This evolution underscores our commitment to enhancing travel experiences and operational practices, ensuring that railway services remain a preferred mode of transportation.

Discover QR Codes for Rail Transport: Brands Embracing Efficiency

Being such an old transport option that’s still utilized in the modern age, rail companies can be a little slow when adopting new technologies. Thankfully, rates of QR code adoption across railways have increased in recent years, and users will see them everywhere. Tickets, railway websites, travel planning apps… they’re practically synonymous with the railways nowadays.

Even businesses are using QR codes on railways. You’re likely to see them in ads throughout railcars. For instance, in 2023, marketing and advertising saw QR code usage rates jump by a massive 323%. That presents an exciting opportunity for advertisers on railways, as railways already have a huge amount of foot traffic. 

Top Brands and QR Codes for Railway Connectivity

Railway QR codes are already being utilized in new and exciting ways. In the first three months of 2024 alone, there’s already been a staggering 27 million QR code scans, showing the growing need for QR codes to be implemented more in our daily lives. And many companies are starting to recognize that need, especially on the railways.

Below, we’ve curated a few brands that have implemented QR codes on railways. It seems it’s only the beginning, too, as more railway companies will start to recognize the utility of QR codes. So, expect this list to expand in time:

  • In the UK, SWR (South Western Railway) trialed QR codes for railways in 2023. They implemented QR codes on the back of seats and in the standing sections of their railcars. When passengers scanned the QR code, they would be able to access a wealth of travel information. This included things like travel information, the number of stops on a line, and any delays that might slow down a journey. 
  • In India, where travel by rail is one of the most popular ways to get around the country (with a daily passenger count of 24 million), railway QR codes are being implemented at ticket booths to allow for easier purchasing options for travelers. These are being implemented across North Central Railway stations as well, and have vastly improved processes for TTEs as well (Train Ticket Examiners).
  • Moving to East Asia and examining Japan’s very clever use of QR codes in its Tokyo Metro. They utilize QR codes for railways to handle train car door openings and closings. Using cameras suspended above platforms, cameras scan the QR codes once the train has come to a complete stop, sending a signal to open the doors. Once passengers have left the train and others have boarded, another signal is sent to close the doors. Genius, and a surprisingly novel idea!
  • In Vietnam, QR codes are being used for passengers to access local Vietnamese delicacies on their travels. This was implemented on Vietnam’s government-run national railway, for passengers traveling from the nation’s capital Hanoi. As you can see QR codes for railways can be used even for more enjoyable experiences for passengers. 

As you can see, there are many ways that QR codes for railways can completely change how we travel. Or in Japan’s case, be used to handle simple (but important) station processes. However, this list only scratches the surface on the kinds of advantages railway QR codes can bring.

QR code generator for Railway

QR codes for railways are beginning to see more use in the modern era. And for good reason, too! They can make ticket payments less complicated, and remove the need for crowded ticket booths. There’s plenty of reason for railways to get involved.

Eager to upgrade your train rides with just a scan? Swing by our QR code generator for rail services and discover how one quick scan can smooth out your travel experience. Here’s to making every journey easier and more tech-advance! Start now and enjoy the ride!