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As the festive season approaches, Royal Mail and Evri have confirmed their last posting dates to ensure your Christmas cards and gifts arrive in time for the big day. With millions of extra items being sent across the UK in December, these delivery services are urging customers to plan ahead and get their parcels in the system before the deadlines.
Evri has advised its customers to aim for a few days before the actual deadlines for peace of mind. The company experiences a surge in demand during the lead-up to Christmas, with an influx of extra festive deliveries, reports the Mirror.
The posting deadlines for sending parcels in the UK with Evri are:
- Friday, December 19: This is the last day for courier collections or sending a parcel by standard delivery from an Evri ParcelShop or Locker (by 11am)
- Saturday, December 20: This is the last day for sending a parcel next-day delivery from an Evri ParcelShop or Locker (by 11am)
(Image: Getty Images)
Royal Mail has also issued its own set of deadlines to prevent any disappointment over undelivered cards and presents by Christmas Day. These dates apply to items being sent within the UK to other UK addresses, with separate dates and deadlines for international post – available to view here.
- Wednesday, December 17: 2nd Class / 2nd Class Signed For
- Friday, December 19: Royal Mail Tracked 48®
- Saturday, December 20: 1st Class / 1st Class Signed For
- Sunday, December 21: Royal Mail Tracked 24®
- Tuesday, December 23: Special Delivery Guaranteed
A Royal Mail spokesperson 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.”
(Image: Sue Thatcher via Getty Images)
Postal delivery times in the run-up to Christmas across the UK can differ greatly depending on which service you choose. Meeting the final posting deadlines is crucial for guaranteed festive delivery, though factors such as adverse weather conditions or industrial strike action may impact these dates, so it’s best to send items at the earliest opportunity.
Previously, Royal Mail issued guidance online on what to do if parcels or letters are delayed. A spokesperson said: “If you have concerns about missing mail, please get in touch and we will investigate.” First Class letters should reach the recipient by the next working day, allowing an additional day when redirection is needed.
Royal Mail aims to deliver Second Class items within two to three working days, plus an extra working day where redirection is required. If your item hasn’t arrived by the anticipated date plus an additional 10 working days, you may be able to claim compensation through the Royal Mail website.
