Royal Mail is urging people to ‘post as early as possible’
Royal Mail has announced a new set of deadlines for 2026, urging customers to “post as early as possible”.
Christmas might feel like a distant prospect right now, but we all know how rapidly the festive season sneaks up on us – and how easily those crucial tasks slip through the net amid the seasonal mayhem. Royal Mail has now revealed its final posting dates ahead of December 25. The postal service said: “Last posting dates are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
“It’s always advisable to post as early as possible to ensure that your Christmas letters and parcels reach their destination in good time.”
Whether you’re sending gifts to family and friends or shopping online for presents, these key dates are well worth noting. Mark them in your calendar now to make sure you don’t miss a single deadline
Royal Mail postal deadlines
- 2nd Class and 2nd Class Signed For – Friday, December 18
- Royal Mail Tracked 48 – Saturday, December 19
- 1st Class and 1st Class Signed For – Monday, December 21
- Royal Mail Tracked 24 – Monday, December 21
- For Special Delivery Guaranteed -Wednesday, December 23
Saturday, December 19, is the last posting date for Royal Mail Tracked Returns 48 to arrive back with the sender before Christmas. Royal Mail will be taking a break from collections and deliveries on Friday, December 25 (Christmas Day), Saturday, December 26 (Boxing Day), and Monday, December 28 (substitute bank holiday for Boxing Day).
As a result, Thursday, December 24 (Christmas Eve) will mark the last postal service before the festive period, with normal operations resuming on Tuesday, December 29.