Need to send a parcel within the UK or internationally but unsure where to start? Royal Mail is one of the most trusted postal services, offering a range of delivery options to suit different needs.
Whether you are shipping a small package or a large parcel, understanding Royal Mail’s services, costs, and best practices can help you make an informed decision.
This guide will walk you through the process, covering everything from booking and tracking to international shipping and cost-saving tips.
By the end, you’ll know exactly how to send a parcel with Royal Mail efficiently and affordably.
What Is Royal Mail?
Royal Mail, the UK’s official postal service established in 1516, handles both national and international mail.
It is distinct from the Post Office, which functions as a retail outlet for mailing and postage purchases.
Royal Mail oversees the collection, sorting, and delivery of mail, offering several services including First-Class and Second-Class mail, Tracked 24 and 48, and Special Delivery Guaranteed for urgent parcels.
The organization operates a comprehensive network with over 11,500 Post Office branches and 1,400 parcel drop-off points, ensuring wide accessibility and convenience for both individual and business postal needs.
This robust infrastructure allows for flexible, reliable mailing solutions tailored to diverse shipping requirements.
How to Send a Parcel with Royal Mail?
Sending a parcel with Royal Mail involves a straightforward process that ensures your items reach their destination safely and on time.
Here’s a detailed guide on how to send a parcel, including some essential checks and packing tips:
Check Restricted Items
Before you begin, make sure your item is safe to send. Items like aerosols, nail varnish, and perfumes may be restricted or prohibited.
Select the Right Box
Use a sturdy box that fits your item snugly. Fill any gaps with packing materials like scrunched-up newspaper or bubble wrap if the item is fragile. Reusing a box is fine, but ensure it’s damage-free.
Pack Your Box
Pack the box to prevent movement during transit, using environmentally friendly packing materials if possible.
Addressing Your Package
- Clearly write the recipient’s details like name, house number, street, town, and postcode, all in capital letters.
- Place the address on the front face of the parcel, aligned to the left, and ensure it’s visible and not over any edges.
- Include a return address on the opposite side in case the parcel needs to be sent back.
Weigh and Measure Your Parcel
Determine the weight and dimensions of your parcel. You can use kitchen scales for lighter items or bathroom scales for heavier items by weighing yourself holding the parcel and subtracting your weight.
Choose Your Postal Service
- First-Class: Next working day delivery.
- Second-Class: Delivered within 2–3 working days.
- Tracked 24/48: For added security with tracking updates.
- Special Delivery Guaranteed: Next-day delivery by 9 AM or 1 PM for urgent parcels.
Postage and Drop-off
- Purchase postage online via Royal Mail’s website or at a Post Office. Attach the label securely to your parcel.
- Drop off your parcel at a Royal Mail drop-off point, use Parcel Postboxes for pre-paid parcels, or book a collection if you prefer a home pickup.
By following these steps, you can ensure your parcel is well-prepared for a secure and timely delivery.
What Are the Other Different Ways to Send a Parcel with Royal Mail?
Royal Mail offers several convenient alternatives to traditional post services for sending parcels, tailored to meet the needs of both individuals and businesses:
- Post Office Drop-Off: Convenient for in-person service, allowing you to buy postage and send parcels directly at the counter.
- Royal Mail Collection Service: Schedule pickups from your home or office, ideal for businesses or bulk shippers.
- Parcel Postboxes: Use special red postboxes for 24/7 drop-off of pre-paid parcels, enhancing flexibility.
- Royal Mail Drop & Go: Aimed at businesses and frequent shippers, this service offers a fast, queue-free drop-off at post office locations.
These varied options ensure that customers can find a shipping method that best suits their needs, whether for personal use or business purposes.
How Much Does It Cost to Send a Parcel with Royal Mail?
The cost of sending a parcel via Royal Mail varies based on several factors, including the size and weight of the package, the destination, and the chosen delivery speed. Generally, larger and heavier parcels incur higher shipping costs.
Additionally, the price differs for domestic versus international shipping, with various options available to suit different needs and budgets.
For domestic shipping within the UK, Royal Mail offers a range of services tailored to how quickly you need your parcel to arrive.
The following table provides an overview of the starting prices and delivery times for each service:
| Service | Price (Starting From) | Delivery Time |
| First-Class | £3.29 | 1 day |
| Second-Class | £2.99 | 2-3 days |
| Tracked 24 | £4.29 | 1 day |
| Tracked 48 | £3.79 | 2 days |
| Special Delivery Guaranteed | £6.85 | Next day by 1 PM |
For international parcels, costs vary based on location and service type. Use Royal Mail’s price calculator to get exact prices.
What Are the Parcel Size and Weight Limits with Royal Mail?
Royal Mail enforces specific size and weight restrictions for parcels, which are essential to avoid additional charges. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
Size Categories
- Letter: These should not exceed 100g in weight, with dimensions up to 24cm x 16.5cm.
- Large Letter: Maximum weight is 750g, and dimensions should be within 35.3cm x 25cm.
- Small Parcel: Allowed up to 2kg, with size limits of 45cm x 35cm x 16cm.
- Medium Parcel: Can weigh up to 20kg, with dimensions capped at 61cm x 46cm x 46cm.
Weight Limits
- Domestic parcels: The maximum weight limit is 20kg.
- International parcels: These can weigh as much as 30kg, although this may vary depending on the destination country.
For more details and to ensure your parcel meets these standards, visit Royal Mail. This guidance helps you plan your shipping needs effectively, avoiding potential surcharges for non-compliance.
How to Book and Pay for a Parcel Online with Royal Mail?
Booking and paying for a parcel online with Royal Mail is quick and convenient. You can easily purchase postage, print labels, and arrange a collection, all from the comfort of your home.
Steps to Book and Pay Online
- Visit the Royal Mail Website: Navigate to the Send Page and click on “Send a Parcel” to begin your booking.
- Enter Parcel Details: Input accurate weight and dimensions, and choose the destination (UK or international).
- Choose the Delivery Service: Select from options like First-Class, Second-Class, Tracked 24/48, or Special Delivery Guaranteed. Opt for Signed For if a signature is needed on delivery.
- Pay for Postage: Use secure payment methods such as debit/credit card or PayPal.
- Print and Attach the Label: Download and print your postage label, or opt for a QR code to print at a Post Office if you lack a printer.
- Drop Off or Schedule a Collection: Deliver your parcel to a Post Office, Royal Mail drop-off point, or Parcel Postbox, or book a home collection service.
Booking online not only saves time but also gives access to discounted postage rates.
Where Can You Drop Off a Parcel for Royal Mail Delivery?
Royal Mail offers multiple drop-off options to make sending parcels convenient and flexible.
Post Office Branches
- With over 11,500 locations across the UK, Post Offices are easily accessible. You can also purchase postage and get assistance from staff if needed.
Royal Mail Collection Points
- These are located at Royal Mail Delivery Offices and partner locations. They are suitable for dropping off prepaid parcels without waiting in line.
Parcel Postboxes
- Special red postboxes designed for prepaid parcels provide a quick and secure drop-off. Available 24/7 at selected locations, they are perfect for busy senders.
Royal Mail Home Collection Service
- You can schedule a parcel collection from your home or office. This service costs £0.99 per item when booked online.
Each drop-off option provides flexibility, making it easier to send your parcel with Royal Mail.
What Are the Delivery Timeframes for Royal Mail Services?
The time it takes for Royal Mail to deliver a parcel depends on the chosen service:
| Service | Estimated Delivery Time |
| First-Class | 1 working day |
| Second-Class | 2–3 working days |
| Tracked 24 | 1 working day |
| Tracked 48 | 2 working days |
| Special Delivery Guaranteed | Next working day by 1 PM |
- Delivery days: Monday to Saturday.
- Bank Holidays: No standard deliveries on public holidays.
For urgent deliveries, Special Delivery Guaranteed ensures parcels arrive by 9 AM or 1 PM the next day.
How Can You Track a Parcel Sent with Royal Mail?
Royal Mail offers tracking services for selected parcel deliveries, allowing senders and recipients to check parcel status in real-time.
How to Track Your Parcel
- Visit the Royal Mail Tracking Page.
- Enter the tracking number from your receipt or confirmation email.
- Click “Track” to view the latest parcel status.
Tracking Options Available
- Tracked 24 & Tracked 48 – Full tracking with SMS/email notifications.
- Special Delivery Guaranteed – Detailed tracking with proof of delivery.
- Signed For Services – Only shows when delivery is completed.
What If Tracking Information Is Not Updating?
- Wait 24 hours, as tracking updates may be delayed.
- If no updates appear within 48 hours, contact Royal Mail Customer Support.
What Are the Royal Mail International Shipping Options?
Royal Mail offers a range of international shipping services depending on speed, tracking, and cost.
International Tracked & Signed
- Provides full end-to-end tracking with real-time updates. A recipient’s signature is required upon delivery for extra security.
International Tracked
- Offers online tracking to monitor the parcel’s journey. No signature is needed, making it a cost-effective option for non-confirmation shipments.
International Signed
- Requires a recipient’s signature upon delivery for proof of receipt. Tracking updates are limited, providing fewer notifications during transit.
International Economy
- The most affordable option for non-urgent international parcels. Delivery times vary, taking up to 12 weeks for some destinations.
Customs and Restrictions
- Every international parcel needs a customs declaration form (CN22 or CN23). Check Royal Mail’s Prohibited and Restricted Items List before shipping.
International shipping costs vary based on destination, weight, and service type.
How Can You Save Money When Sending a Parcel with Royal Mail?
Sending parcels with Royal Mail can be cost-effective if you employ the right strategies.
Firstly, consider booking your postage online through Royal Mail’s website, where you often find lower rates compared to in-person bookings.
This is especially true for regular shippers who can benefit from occasional promotions and discounts.
Opt for the appropriate mailing service based on your needs. For non-urgent deliveries, Second-Class postage offers a cost-effective option, while Tracked 48 provides a reasonable compromise between speed and expense, ensuring that your package is both trackable and affordably priced.
For those sending parcels in bulk, especially business customers, signing up for a Royal Mail Business Account can lead to significant savings through discounted rates.
Additionally, utilizing Parcel Postboxes for your prepaid parcels eliminates the need to pay counter fees at Post Offices, further reducing your overall expenses.
Conclusion
Royal Mail provides a wide range of parcel delivery options, catering to different budgets and urgency levels.
Whether you’re sending a domestic or international parcel, the process is straightforward. Booking online, using the right service, and taking advantage of cost-saving strategies can make shipping parcels both efficient and affordable.
For trackable and guaranteed deliveries, Royal Mail’s Tracked 24, Tracked 48, and Special Delivery Guaranteed are excellent choices.
Meanwhile, international services allow you to send parcels across the world with tracking and security.
By following this guide, you can now confidently send your parcels with Royal Mail while choosing the best delivery, tracking, and cost-saving options.
FAQs
Can I send a parcel with Royal Mail without a printer?
Yes, you can send parcels without a printer by selecting the QR code option when booking online. Take the QR code to a Post Office, where they will print the label for you.
What should I do if my parcel is lost or delayed?
Check the tracking status on Royal Mail’s website and wait a few days. If it’s still delayed, contact Royal Mail Customer Support and submit a claim for lost parcels.
Are there any prohibited items I cannot send via Royal Mail?
Yes, Royal Mail prohibits sending items like explosives, firearms, perishable food, and hazardous chemicals. Always check the prohibited items list before posting.
Does Royal Mail offer insurance for valuable parcels?
Yes, Royal Mail offers compensation coverage on services like Special Delivery Guaranteed, which covers up to £2,500 depending on the selected level.
How can I change the delivery address after sending a parcel?
Once a parcel is in transit, the delivery address cannot be changed. However, recipients may arrange redelivery if they missed the first attempt.
What is the difference between Royal Mail Tracked 24 and Special Delivery?
Tracked 24 delivers within 1 day with tracking updates, while Special Delivery guarantees next day delivery by 9 AM or 1 PM with compensation options.
How do I send a return parcel using Royal Mail?
Check the retailer’s return policy and use the prepaid return label if provided. If not, you can purchase return postage via Royal Mail’s website.
