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New Royal Mail deadlines confirmed - 'post as early as possible'
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New Royal Mail deadlines confirmed - 'post as early as possible' Check the key Royal Mail deadlines now Royal Mail has confirmed a new set of deadlines for 2026, urging customers to "post as early as possible". Christmas may still feel like a distant prospect, but many of us know only too well how swiftly it creeps up - and how easily important tasks can slip through the net amid the festive frenzy. Royal Mail has now revealed its last posting dates ahead of December 25.
New Royal Mail deadlines confirmed - 'post as early as possible'
Check the key Royal Mail deadlines now
Royal Mail has confirmed a new set of deadlines for 2026, urging customers to "post as early as possible".
Christmas may still feel like a distant prospect, but many of us know only too well how swiftly it creeps up - and how easily important tasks can slip through the net amid the festive frenzy. Royal Mail has now revealed its last 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 loved ones or ordering presents online, these dates are well worth keeping in mind. If you're planning to post Christmas cards and parcels, jot down the dates below in your diary so you don't miss the cut-off points.
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 not be making any collections or deliveries on Friday, December 25 (Christmas Day), Saturday, December 26 (Boxing Day), or Monday, December 28 (substitute bank holiday for Boxing Day).
As a result, the last postal service before Christmas will take place on Thursday, December 24 (Christmas Eve), with services resuming on Tuesday, December 29.