What determines railway ticket prices: UZ's answer

How are the tariffs formed, why can the same tickets have different prices, and how do the days of the week affect them? Find out what determines the prices of railway tickets in Ukraine

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The pricing policy for train travel in Ukraine depends on a number of factors. Despite the fact that Ukrzaliznytsia has no autonomy in determining tariffs, ticket prices can vary by carriage and day of the week.

In a commentary for RBC-Ukraine, UZ explained what the price depends on. Let's take a closer look at all the aspects that affect the cost of railway tickets. 

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The main factors that affect the cost of a ticket are

1. The distance of the trip. The longer the route, the higher the ticket price. The fare is calculated depending on the distance traveled and the tariff rate set by the state regulatory authorities.

2. Carriage class. The ticket price depends on the comfort level of the car:

- General carriage is the cheapest option, with minimal amenities and no fixed seats.

- Second-class carriage - a budget option with separate beds, open plan.

- Compartment car - increased comfort, closed compartments for 4 people.

- Suite (SV) - the most comfortable option, compartment for 2 people, with improved service.

3. Train category. Trains are divided by speed and level of service:

- Intercity+ - high-speed trains with a higher level of comfort, modern cars, air conditioning, Wi-Fi.

- Night express - comfortable cars designed for fast night travel.

- Branded trains - characterized by improved service and newer cars.

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4. Adjustment factors by day of the week. Ukrzaliznytsia applies variable coefficients depending on demand:

- On Tuesdays and Wednesdays, a reduced coefficient (0.9) applies, making tickets cheaper.

- On Friday and Sunday, demand increases, so the coefficient is increased (1.1).

5. Seasonal indexation of fares. Ticket prices are adjusted depending on the time of year. For example, during summer vacations or New Year's holidays, the demand for tickets increases, which leads to higher fares. At the same time, reduced coefficients may apply during the off-season.

6. Condition and year of manufacture of the car. Within the same train, prices for cars of the same class may differ due to the age and technical condition of the cars:

- Newer cars are equipped with plastic windows, improved mattresses, pillows, modern sockets, and noise insulation.

- Older cars may have wooden windows, fewer sockets, and a lower level of comfort.

7. Pricing is based on the departure time of the train. The ticket price may depend on whether the train starts the route from the point of its formation or is in circulation.

8. Additional services. The ticket price includes:

Value added tax (VAT - 20%).

Ticket issuance fee.

At the request of the passenger, a set of bed linen and other additional services.

Why are there different prices in cars of the same class?

Even within the same train, prices for seats in the same class of cars may vary. The main reasons are:

Comfort level - newer cars have improved equipment, noise insulation, and additional sockets.

Age of cars - older cars may have worn-out interior elements and a lower level of comfort.

For example, on the Kyiv - Lviv route, a compartment ticket in a newer carriage can cost UAH 403.63, and in an older one - UAH 295.95. A car with a higher price will have better noise insulation, new shelves, and additional sockets. However, the basic basic conditions (temperature, cleanliness, bedding) remain the same.

Thus, rail fares are based on a set of parameters. When choosing a ticket, passengers can focus on various factors: comfort, train category, seasonal discounts, and demand. Understanding the pricing mechanisms helps to choose the best travel option in terms of price and convenience.

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