What is Royal Mail? A Comprehensive Guide

Royal Mail is the United Kingdom's national postal service, delivering letters and parcels to homes and businesses across the country and abroad. If you are wondering what Royal Mail is in the UK, here is everything you need to know.

It is a quick service that has remained an important aspect of life for millions of people and companies in the UK. In this article, we will learn what Royal Mail is and how to use it effectively.

What is Royal Mail?

Royal Mail is the official postal service of the UK, which has domestic and international mail delivery, parcel delivery, and business logistics. Its primary services are First Class Mail, which is usually delivered within the next working day (including Saturdays), and Second-Class Mail, which is usually delivered in two to three working days.

With parcels, Royal Mail's Tracked 24 and Tracked 48 services offer speed and tracking for customers who want an additional level of security. The company also provides special delivery that is assured within 1 pm and is inclusive of compensation cover and delivery proof.

Besides regular delivery, Royal Mail offers international shipping services, including International Standard, International Tracked, and International Economy, which includes all the express delivery services, as well as the cheap long-distance mail delivery services.

Royal Mail has always been one of the most end-to-end courier solutions in the UK, whether it is a birthday card to someone or an important document to an overseas location.

Royal Mail History

It has a history that dates back more than 500 years.

The service was established in 1516 by the then king Henry VIII. It started to deliver messages to the king and government.

In the year 1635, King Charles I made the postal system accessible to citizens, and hence, for the first time, citizens sent letters privately.

In 1840, the Uniform Penny Post was introduced, and it transformed the communication process in Britain. It gave people the chance to send a letter to any part of the country for a single penny. It is also at this time that the first adhesive postage stamp in the world, the Penny Black, was introduced.

Royal Mail has, over the years, updated its activities and is no longer using horse-drawn mail coaches but automated sorting and postage via the internet. The company continues to have its obligation of a universal service, even though privatized in 2013, it still delivers to all UK addresses at an equal cost.

Apart from Royal Mail's rich history, it is evolving alongside electric cars, tracking systems, and digital innovations to meet current requirements.

How to Use Royal Mail Service?

It is not difficult to send anything via Royal Mail once you understand how. Here are instructions on the proper manner of doing it, according to the recent Royal Mail directions:

Step 1: Pack Your Items

Make sure that you have packed it well and securely. Strong boxes containing sensitive items must be secured with internal cushioning. Stick all sides with very durable tape, and make sure the package is large enough to fit the address and postage.

Step 2: Buy Your Postage

You can buy the postage online at send.royalmail.com, using their app, or at your local Post Office. Select the service that suits you the most.

You can also calculate costs according to destination, size, and weight when purchasing online.
Addressing Your Package

Follow the tips below to correctly address the package:

• Write the address in the bottom-right corner, with the name, address, and postal code left-aligned.
• Do not include phone numbers or email addresses in the address for privacy.
• Avoid using commas or full stops.
• Leave enough space for stamping and scanning around the address
• Always include your complete address on the back, with the words "Return Address" written at the top.

Step 3: Print the Label

Once you place your order to buy your postage online, print the shipping label with your home printer, and paste it on the top of your package, ensure the address and barcode are clearly visible and not obscured by tape or bends.

In case you do not have a printer, you can select Royal Mail Label Printing Service at a few branches of the Post Office, where they will print it out.

Step 4: Post or Book Collection

Now you can choose, for convenience, to book a collection, or you have 7 days to post the package yourself. Package collection can be easily booked online or through the app.

What Items are Not Allowed to be shipped via Royal Mail?

Here are some of the items that are not allowed:

• Aerosols
• Alcohol
• Gas-filled balloons
• Batteries
• Bladed items
• CBD
• Car Parts
• Flammable liquids
• Medical items and drugs
• Ice, dry ice, and liquid nitrogen, etc.

You may refer to the official list of items that are not allowed to ship via Royal Mail.

Royal Mail vs Other Post Services in the UK

Not only is Royal Mail one of the oldest, but it also has a great reputation compared to other services, as it offers the following benefits:

• Widest coverage, including remote areas
• Fast delivery speed
• Affordable pricing
• Package tracking service
• Consistent and trustworthy services
• Convenient office locations with home pick-up service option
• Focus on sustainability

Bonus: How to Ensure Package Security

Package security has become an increasing concern across the UK. Follow the following tips to keep your deliveries safe:

• Choose tracked delivery.
• Arrange deliveries for when someone is home.
• Avoid leaving parcels outside for long.
• Install Reolink Doorbell to protect your parcels with a live video stream and alerts.
  
  

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FAQs

How long does Royal Mail take to deliver?

Local deliveries vary between 1 and 3 days, depending on the service, and international deliveries may take longer.

Is Royal Mail through the USPS?

No, these two are separate postal services.

Is Royal Mail a good courier?

Yes, it is one of the most reliable couriers in the UK.

Conclusion

Were you also wondering what is Royal Mail? It is the most reliable and least expensive postal service in the UK. It offers other trusted deliveries locally and internationally. With the right mailing practices and a positive reputation, it is the best option for anyone looking for quick, affordable package delivery.