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Money Saving Expert has issued a warning about an impending price increase for stamps, with first-class stamps set to rise by 22 per cent from October 7.
The cost of sending parcels via first and second class, as well as Royal Mail’s ‘Signed For’, ‘Special Delivery Guaranteed’, and ‘Tracked’ services, will also increase from October 7. However, the team at MSE, , led by Martin Lewis, has detailed a way to avoid this price hike.
Currently, a first-class stamp costs £1.35, but this will rise to £1.65 in October. Martin Lewis said: “For years, every time stamps go up in price I’ve suggested people stock up and bulk-buy in advance, as provided the stamp doesn’t have a price on it and instead just says the postage class, it’s still valid after the hike.
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“So you may as well stock up now, even if it’s just for Christmas cards for the next few Christmases.
“If you stock up on stamps now, be careful to avoid fakes.”
MSE advised to only buy stamps from reputable high street outlets and, where possible, hang onto your receipt. Stamps are also available directly from the Royal Mail online shop (though here you need to spend at least £50 to get free delivery), reports Chronicle Live.
In April, Royal Mail paused the £5 penalty for anyone who receives a letter with a fake stamp on it while it takes fresh action against counterfeits. However, you may still be charged if you use a counterfeit stamp when sending something.
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Royal Mail has confirmed that the price of second class stamps will remain at 85p, as they are currently capped until 2029 to ensure affordability in letter sending. Royal Mail stated it has endeavoured to keep price increases minimal amid declining letter volumes and inflationary pressures.
This week, Ofcom proposed that Royal Mail might be allowed to stop Saturday deliveries for second class letters as part of a service overhaul.
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