How much you should tip your postman and bin collectors this Christmas – and what are the rules in Tier 4?

Tipping your postman or bin collectors at Christmas time may be second nature to you.

Or maybe you never even knew it was a thing.

Either way, many people give those working in the service industry, like postmen, bin collectors and milkmen a cash tip or a small gift at Christmas time to say thank you for the year and for working hard to ensure cards and parcels get across the country to loved ones.

And this year, people should be more thankful than ever to these key workers who have continued going out to do their jobs throughout the pandemic.

But you might be wondering how much you should tip these workers and, this year, whether it’s safe to be exchanging things like cash, especially since London is now in Tier 4.

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Royal Mail has confirmed that tipping is OK but it’s a “matter between customers and individual post people”, according to Surrey Live.

A spokesperson said: “Royal Mail does a hugely important job at Christmas when our people work really hard to deliver cards and presents across the UK in all weathers.

“Royal Mail regards the giving of Christmas tips as a matter between customers and individual post people so long as nothing is expected in return.”

Of course with Covid cases spiking in the capital, it’s important to be extra cautious when it comes to any interactions or exchanges with others.

Ensure you socially distance if you do give a tip to your postman or bin collector.

So if you do decide to tip your postie or any other worker, how much should you give?

It’s totally down to you whether you tip at all and so there’s no exact amount you should give.

Modern manners specialists Debrett’s recommends giving a £5 tip, reports the BBC.

Since most of us don’t carry cash any more, other ways people say thanks is by giving a bottle of wine, some chocolates or some other homemade treats like mince pies.

Last Royal Mail Christmas post dates

To get your parcels, letters and cards delivered to loved ones in good time, Royal Mail has revealed the last recommended posting days:

Friday December 18: 2nd Class and 2nd Class Signed For

Monday December 21: 1st Class and 1st Class Signed For Royal Mail Tracked 48*

Tuesday December 22: Royal Mail Tracked 24*

Wednesday December 23: Special Delivery Guaranteed

Customers should note that Royal Mail Tracked 24hr and Royal Mail Tracked 48hr services are not available to purchase at Post Office branches.

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