Stockbridge Postmaster shares top tips as as Last Posting Dates approach

New research reveals nearly 9 in 10 Brits are unaware of last posting dates, and over a third leave gift buying to the last minute. 

Stockbridge Postmaster, Waheeda Akram, is reminding customers of the UK’s last posting dates to ensure gifts arrive in time for Christmas: 

Last posting dates for 2024:

TODAY – Thursday 19th December: 

• Parcelforce Express48 

Friday 20th December: 

• Royal Mail 1st Class 
• Royal Mail Tracked 48 
• Evri Standard 
• Parcelforce Express24 

Saturday 21st December: 

• Royal Mail Tracked 24 
• Evri Priority 
• DPD 

Monday 23rd December: 

• Royal Mail’s Special Delivery Guaranteed® 

Postmaster Waheeda Akram from the Stockbridge branch advises: “There is always such a buzz in the branch around Christmas time and with so many customers, old and new, coming in we work around the clock to make sure they get their cards and presents sent to loved ones at home and around the world.

“This year, we’ve even added extra counters to help keep the queues moving smoothly.” 

Waheeda shares tips for posting parcels smoothly: 

• Prepare ahead: “Have the packages all wrapped up with the addresses clearly written on the front. We also always encourage customers to make sure packages are secure with strong parcel tape. Also, avoid using black bags to wrap parcels up in as they can, on the very rare occasion, be mistaken for rubbish! Pack as well as possible and make sure the addresses are legible!” 
• Label and secure: “This ensures your hard-earned money spent on Christmas presents means they arrive safely. We also advise customers to use address labels rather than hand-written addresses where possible to reduce errors.” 
• Choose the right service: “We offer a range of options to suit timing and budgets, including Parcelforce, Royal Mail, and Evri. If you’re unsure which service to use, just ask one of my team – we’re here to help make the process as smooth as possible.” 

The research shows 12% of Brits missed last year’s posting deadlines entirely.  

In addition to posting parcels, nearly one in five Brits are busy returning items before Christmas, driven by pre-holiday sales like Black Friday.  

Post Office advises customers to check specific posting dates and requirements at their local branch or visit postoffice.co.uk/christmas for more information.