Last posting dates for Christmas are revealed by Royal Mail

CHRISTMAS is quickly approaching and many people will be planning to send cards and presents to loved ones ahead of the big day.

To help with preparations Royal Mail has revealed its last recommended posting dates to ensure cards, letters, and parcels arrive in time.

Postal service officials have said that if mail is posted by these dates in December it should arrive before Santa.

And as always, the earlier you post items the less likely it is that unforeseen delays could cause them to be delivered after Christmas.

But do bear in mind that if you need to send items overseas, it will take longer for them to be delivered.

Please note that final posting dates are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.

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Key dates

So here are the dates you need to know – from earliest to latest.

• Last posting date for 2nd Class mail is Wednesday, December 17
• Last posting date for 1st Class mail is Saturday, December 20
• Last posting date for Royal Mail Tracked 24 is Sunday, December 21
• Last posting date for Special Delivery Guaranteed is Tuesday, December 23

Meanwhile, Friday, December 19 is the last posting date for Royal Mail Tracked Returns 48 to arrive back with the sender before Christmas.

This date is also the final date for Express48 Parcelforce Worldwide UK inland services.

And Express10, ExpressPM, and Express24 should all be posted by Monday, December 22.

Mail reminders

To help ensure smooth delivery Royal Mail reminded people to ensure their cards, letters and packages include the full address of the recipient including the full postcode.

People were also reminded to pay the correct amount of postage to avoid unnecessary delays or extra charges.

Royal Mail also told its customers to be aware of scams and counterfeit stamps.

It said fraudsters may be looking for opportunities to steal money and valuable information from people expecting a delivery.

The UK’s largest parcel delivery firm has also confirmed final send dates to ensure Christmas presents get delivered on time.

Evri is also encouraging customers to send their parcels as early as possible, but it said Friday December 19 will be the last chance for courier collections.

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