Core Viewpoint - The phenomenon of "immediate waitlisting" for train tickets during peak travel times is not solely due to slow purchasing speed, but rather a result of limited ticket availability for specific routes [4][12][27]. Ticket Availability and Distribution - The ticketing system differentiates between full journey tickets and segment tickets, with the former generally having more availability [4][6]. - Historical data and demand forecasts are used to allocate tickets among different segments, leading to uneven distribution based on travel demand [8][14]. - For example, tickets from Beijing to Shanghai (full journey) are more plentiful compared to tickets for segments that only cover part of the journey [6][10]. Waitlisting Mechanism - The waitlisting system was introduced to better match passenger demand with available tickets, allowing for automatic ticket purchases when cancellations occur [15][17]. - This system aims to minimize opportunities for scalpers and ensure that tickets go to genuine travelers [15][19]. Seasonal Demand and Capacity - During peak travel seasons, such as holidays, the demand for tickets can exceed supply significantly, leading to intense competition among travelers [25][26]. - For instance, during the 2025 Spring Festival, the railway system is expected to handle over 5.13 billion passenger trips, with certain regions experiencing disproportionately high demand [26][27]. Conclusion on Ticket Purchasing Strategy - To increase the chances of securing tickets, travelers are advised to opt for full journey tickets whenever possible, as they provide access to a larger pool of available seats [27].

Group 1 - The National Day and Mid-Autumn Festival holiday will be combined for 8 days from October 1 to October 8, leading to a significant increase in travel demand [1][7] - The railway system will implement a peak operation schedule, planning to operate approximately 13,000 passenger trains during the holiday period to meet the increased demand [7] - The ticket sales for the first day of the holiday began on September 17, with the last day tickets available for purchase starting September 24 [6][7] Group 2 - Travelers can improve their chances of successfully purchasing tickets by using the "pre-fill information" feature on the railway 12306 App to quickly submit orders when tickets go on sale [1] - If tickets for the desired train or seat are sold out, travelers can utilize the "reserve ticket" function on the railway 12306 App, allowing up to 6 reserve orders per account [3] - Starting October 1, the national railway will fully implement electronic invoices, eliminating paper reimbursement vouchers [5][7] Group 3 - Data from the Chongqing region indicates a preference for short and medium-distance routes, with over 30,000 tickets sold for October 1 by September 17 [9] - There is a notable increase in long-distance travel demand, with ticket availability for popular routes like Chongqing to Beijing, Shanghai, Wuhan, and Guangzhou becoming tight [9]

Group 1 - The 2025 National Day and Mid-Autumn Festival will coincide, resulting in an 8-day holiday from October 1 to October 8, leading to increased travel demand [1] - Train ticket sales have started, with tickets available for purchase 15 days in advance, creating a rush for tickets as the holiday approaches [1] - The railway department anticipates a significant increase in passenger flow, characterized by high concentration during peak travel times and a mix of long-distance and short-distance trips [1][2] Group 2 - Due to high travel demand, certain routes and times may experience capacity constraints, particularly for trains with shorter travel times, which are likely to sell out quickly [2] - The railway will implement a peak operation schedule during the holiday, planning to operate approximately 13,000 passenger trains daily to meet demand [2] - The railway department will analyze big data from the 12306 platform in real-time to arrange additional temporary trains or night high-speed trains during peak periods [2] Group 3 - Travelers are advised to avoid peak travel days when possible and consider off-peak travel options to secure tickets more easily [3] - The 12306 platform offers a ticket reservation feature that allows for up to 60 combinations of "date + train number" to increase chances of securing tickets [3] - Students can utilize a special reservation service on the 12306 platform to purchase discounted tickets, allowing them to book in advance to avoid peak ticket sales [3]

Core Insights - The total number of tickets sold for the May Day holiday by the railway ticketing platform 12306 has reached 106 million, with 43.56 million tickets refunded and 10.83 million tickets changed [1] Ticket Sales and Management - On April 29 and 30, the daily ticket sales were approximately 19 million, maintaining a stable sales volume without significant fluctuations [1] - The increase in ticket availability for certain routes is attributed to two main factors: the railway department's efforts to optimize capacity based on demand data and the temporary changes in travel plans by passengers leading to refunds and rescheduling [1] - On April 30 alone, 1,740 additional passenger trains were added to enhance capacity, with 601 million tickets refunded and 205.9 million tickets changed on that day [1] Customer Recommendations - Passengers who have not yet secured their desired tickets are encouraged to utilize the 12306 ticket reservation feature, which allows for the selection of up to 60 combinations of "date + train number" [1]