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The Ins and Outs of Shipping with Royal Mail
The Ins and Outs of Shipping with Royal Mail
When it comes to sending parcels and letters within the UK, few services are as trusted as Royal Mail. With a rich history spanning over 500 years, this institution has evolved to meet the changing needs of consumers, from traditional post to modern digital solutions.
Key Takeaways
Save Money
Discover postage rates for Royal Mail services
Best Practices
Learn how to avoid common shipping mistakes
Advice
Get practical advice on packaging goods securely for shipment
Postcode FInder
Explore the convenience of the Royal Mail Postcode Finder
Understanding Royal Mail Services
Trusted by the United Kingdom since 1512, Royal Mail is an iconic postal service founded by Henry VIII. Adapting to the changes in the demands for their service, Royal Mail has both an in-person and online service.
The Post Office is a place where you can purchase postage and dispatch items. Simply package your items (See below for Springpack’s Guide to Packaging for Royal Mail), add an address, and take the package into your chosen Post Office. The Post Office will then weigh & measure your items, and take them into the Royal Mail Logistics Network.
Click & Drop Is an online service, in which the user measures & weighs their parcel and arranges their postage online. Currently, Royal Mail offer a free collection service, where your postie will collect your package on their rounds. This works by either requesting the postie brings a postage label with them, or you print the postage label and they scan the barcode.
Postcode Finder is a free and useful tool that can be used to locate postcodes using the street name of any address in the UK. Type in the part of the address you know, for example Springpack Ltd, and Royal Mail’s Postcode Finder will allow you to find their postcode.
Royal Mail Size Guide
Royal Mail Offers 5 parcel sizes – Letter, Large Letter, Small Parcel, Medium Parcel and Large Parcel. You can find the maximum dimensions for each parcel by clicking here to visit our Parcel Size Guide.
Determining the correct postage rates for your mail can seem daunting at first, but Royal Mail offers a range of tools and services to simplify the process. Whether you’re sending a letter or a parcel, understanding how to calculate postage is essential for cost-effective shipping.
Packaging Guidelines for Sending Goods
Secure and effective packaging is crucial for ensuring that your items arrive at their destination safely, and keep your end recipient happy. Whether you’re sending fragile items or everyday goods, using the right materials and techniques is essential. We’ve created a guide for the best types of packaging to use, based on the item you’re sending.
Boxes
Discover postage rates for Royal Mail services
Mailing Bags
Mailing bags are a very good option for items that do not need as much protection during transport. They are commonly used for shipping of fabrics, clothing, or items that come inside of their own packaging like a video game.
Jiffy Mailers
Jiffy Mailers are a great in-between option for products that need more protection than a mailing bag offers but do not necessarily need to go in a box. They’re commonly used for sending documents, small parts, and jewellery.
Bubble Wrap
Bubble wrap is a great idea for protecting your goods during transit. You can use bubble wrap to form a protective “Blanket” around your product, and protect it from knocks and bangs.
Air Cushions
Air Cushions are similar to bubble wrap, in the sense that they are a bubble that protects your product. The difference is that they are inflated on demand, and come in a wider range of size options, based on what you need. For example, a bubble blanket can be used instead of bubble wrap, and features very small bubbles. In contrast, more traditional air cushions are larger, and work to fill the void within your parcel so your product cannot move around.
Eco Alternatives
There are plenty of Eco Alternatives for postage, too! Both Springpack’s Simply Eco & Postal Plus ranges are designed to be as kind to the planet as possible, yet are incredibly effective at protecting your goods in transit.
Conclusion
Shipping with Royal Mail doesn’t have to be complicated. By understanding the services, calculating postage accurately, avoiding common mistakes, and packaging goods properly, you can enhance your shipping experience and ensure your parcels reach their destination safely. From using the Postcode Finder to leveraging online resources, there are countless ways to make the most of Royal Mail’s offerings. So, next time you send a parcel, remember these tips and enjoy a hassle-free mailing experience.
Now that you’ve mastered the ins and outs of Royal Mail, how will you optimise your shipping strategy for better efficiency and cost savings?
Frequently Asked Questions
How to send a parcel with Royal Mail
To send a parcel with Royal Mail, you can visit your nearest post office or book a collection online. Make sure to package your item securely and address it correctly before sending it off.
How to package an item for Royal Mail
When packaging an item for Royal Mail, use sturdy boxes or padded envelopes to protect the contents. Secure the package with strong tape and clearly label it with the recipient’s address and your return address.
Can you use Jiffy Bags for Royal Mail
Yes, you can use Jiffy Bags for Royal Mail as long as they are properly sealed and securely packed. Make sure the bag is suitable for the size and weight of the item you are sending.
Royal Mail Postcode Finder
The Royal Mail Postcode Finder is a useful tool that helps you find the correct postcode for any address in the UK. Simply enter the address details, and the finder will provide you with the correct postcode.
Best packaging for Royal Mail
The best packaging for Royal Mail includes sturdy cardboard boxes, padded envelopes, and bubble wrap for fragile items. Make sure to use packaging that is appropriate for the size and weight of your item to ensure it arrives safely at its destination.
The Postal Plus Range has been specifically designed for posting parcels.
If you are interested in Packaging, Springpack are experts in the field. Our team of Packaging Experts have all of the answers to your packaging questions. Why not get in touch with us today?
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Author: Alice Jeavons
Springpack is a UK packaging company delivering sustainable solutions that empower customers. We prioritise exceptional service, building strong relationships and developing innovative packaging solutions tailored to unique needs. Sustainability drives us, from eco-friendly materials to reusable practices minimising waste and emissions. As a family-run business, we’ve grown from humble beginnings to industry forerunners. Our passion lies in making a positive impact in our community and the lives of customers, employees, and stakeholders through outstanding service that exceeds expectations.