Ticket on Departure (ToD)

What is Ticket on Departure (ToD)?

A Ticket on Departure (ToD) is a service offered by some train stations in the UK that allows you to collect your pre-booked train tickets at an automated machine instead of needing to collect them in advance or queue at the ticket office upon arrival. These are also commonly referred to as "paper tickets".

How to book paper tickets:

1. Choose a ToD Station:
Not all stations offer ToD services. Check the National Rail website (https://www.nationalrail.co.uk/) to see if your departure station provides ToD. We'll also tell you before you checkout whether your departure station allows you collect ToD.

2. Book Your Tickets Online:
When booking your train tickets online, ensure the option for "Ticket on Departure" is selected during checkout. If you are using our website, ensure to click on "show more options" to be able to select paper tickets.

Source: Split Ticketing site

3. Collect Your Tickets at the Station:
Locate the designated ToD machines at the station. These are typically self-service machines with clear instructions on the screen.

4. Enter Your Booking Reference:
The machine will ask you to enter your booking reference number, which you'll find on your confirmation email.

5. Insert a Payment Card to Unlock Your Tickets: While you won't be charged for using the ToD machine, you will need to insert a valid payment card (debit or credit) to verify your booking and unlock your tickets for printing. The card will not be charged, and you do not need to use the same card that you brought the tickets online with.

6. Collect Your Tickets and Travel!
Once you've entered your booking reference, the machine will dispense your paper tickets.
Please ensure that all tickets have been counted and received before moving away from the machine. The receipt should indicate the number of coupons printed. Remember, the receipt itself does not count as a coupon.

Now you're ready to board your train!

Important Information:

• Plan ahead: Allow yourself enough time! Collect your tickets at least 20 minutes before your departure time to avoid any last-minute rush. We are not responsible if you miss your train due to delays in collecting your tickets.
• Check ToD facilities and station opening hours here. Ensure to check station opening hours, especially for early morning collections.
• Ticket possession: You must have your tickets with you when you board the train

Collection Options:

• Self-service ticket machines.
• Ticket office.

Problems and Solutions:

• Lost, stolen, or replaced your payment card? No worries - you can still collect your tickets using a different card. Just ensure it has a magnetic strip on the back.
• If tickets are missing from the machine, flag down station staff for immediate assistance. Follow the steps below.

What to Do If Tickets Are Missing from the Machine

1. Verify the number of printed coupons on the collection receipt. Remember, the receipt itself doesn't count as a coupon. Check your itinerary to identify the missing ticket.
2. If there are missing coupons, flag down station staff without leaving the machine unattended.
3. Reach into the machine to check if any tickets are stuck in the chute.
4. Report any faults with the machine immediately. Note that the machines at the station are managed by the train companies, not Split Ticketing.

Lost/ Misplaced Tickets:

If you are unable to locate a printed ticket, then you will need to purchase a new one for your journey. Printed tickets cannot be replaced, and refunds are not available for missing tickets.

Our Recommendation:

Consider E-Tickets for a hassle-free experience. Print at home or download onto your smartphone, ensuring you're ready for your journey. Want to learn more about E-Tickets? Check our our information page.