Royal Mail reminds people to post early for Christmas with special postmark

The postmark will be applied to stamped mail nationwide from Monday, December 2. It will say ‘Remember to post early for Christmas. royalmail.com/greetings’ and will run until Thursday, December 18.

With Christmas fast approaching, consumers are being reminded to keep an eye out on the last posting dates to ensure their Christmas cards, letters and festive parcels arrive with friends and family in time for the big day.

For 2nd Class and 2nd Class Signed For, the last recommended posting date is Wednesday, December 18. For 1st Class, 1st Class Signed For and Royal Mail Tracked 48, it’s Friday, December 20.

For Royal Mail Tracked 24 the last recommended posting date is Saturday, December 21 and for Special Delivery Guaranteed it’s Monday, December 23.

Nick Landon, Chief Commercial Officer, Royal Mail, said: “We all have a lot on at this time of year and it’s easy to leave posting cards and presents to the last minute. However, the run up to Christmas is by far the busiest time of the year for our posties and we don’t want anyone to be disappointed by not getting their cards and presents in time for the big day, so we are reminding customers to post by the deadlines.”

To ensure Christmas gifts and cards arrive safely, there are a few key things customers should remember - make sure the full address is written clearly on the item of mail, and always include the full postcode.

Customers should also ensure that the correct amount of postage has been applied to avoid any delays or extra charges for the recipient.

More information on our Christmas posting is available on the Royal Mail website at www.royalmail.com/greetings.

Beware scams and counterfeit stamps: Royal Mail also wants to remind customers to remain extra vigilant during the festive season. Often at this time of year there is an increase in online scam attempts, as fraudsters look for opportunities to steal money and valuable information from people expecting a delivery.