If you are new to the UK, using the Post Office may seem confusing at first — especially if you are used to a different system in your home country. Whether you want to send a birthday card, post a document, or ship a parcel abroad, this guide will show you how everything works step by step.
What Is the Post Office?
The Post Office is a nationwide service provider that handles mail, banking, and other everyday services. It is not the same as Royal Mail, which physically delivers letters and parcels.
Here’s how it works:
- The Post Office is the place where you go to send and collect mail, buy stamps, and access services.
- Royal Mail is the delivery company that transports your letters and parcels.
You can find Post Offices in most towns and even inside convenience stores or newsagents.
👉 Find your nearest Post Office here
Common Things You Can Do at a Post Office
- Buy stamps
- Send letters and parcels in the UK or internationally
- Track your deliveries
- Collect or return online shopping orders
- Pay bills or top up pre-paid cards
- Apply for passport and driving licence services
- Use basic banking services with most UK banks
Sending a Letter or Card
To send a standard letter in the UK:
- Write the full UK address clearly on the front
- Buy a stamp (First Class or Second Class)
- Stick the stamp on the top right corner
- Drop the letter in a red Royal Mail postbox or hand it to the Post Office counter
Stamp options:
- First Class: Arrives in 1–2 working days
- Second Class: Arrives in 2–4 working days
You can buy a single stamp or a booklet of multiple stamps.
👉 Shop stamp booklets or printable postage options
Sending a Parcel
If you want to send a small box or package:
- Pack the item securely
- Write the address clearly
- Visit a Post Office for weighing and pricing
- Choose your delivery speed and tracking options
- Pay and receive a receipt with tracking details
UK services include:
- Royal Mail Tracked 24 / 48
- Special Delivery (guaranteed next day)
- Economy options for cheaper delivery
International services vary by country and delivery time.
👉 Get affordable parcel boxes and tape here
Parcel Size and Weight Categories
Postage cost depends on the size and weight of the parcel:
| Type | Size Example | Weight Limit |
|---|---|---|
| Letter | A4 paper, birthday card | Up to 100g |
| Large Letter | Magazine, small book | Up to 750g |
| Small Parcel | Clothing, shoes | Up to 2kg |
| Medium Parcel | Small appliance or toy | Up to 20kg |
Use the Post Office scales to check your size and weight before paying.
👉 Buy a home parcel scale here
Tracking and Proof of Delivery
Most tracked services offer:
- Online tracking
- Email or text notifications
- Signature on delivery (optional)
Always keep your receipt — it includes the tracking number and reference in case the item is lost or delayed.
Receiving Parcels in the UK
When someone sends you a parcel:
- It will usually arrive at your home address
- You may get a text or card if you are not home
- Some deliveries go to a local Post Office or parcel locker for collection
Bring ID (such as a driving licence or utility bill) to collect a held parcel.
Returning Online Orders
Many UK online shops (like Amazon, ASOS, or eBay sellers) allow easy returns via the Post Office. You may be given:
- A QR code to show on your phone
- A pre-printed label to attach to your package
Just bring the item and label to the Post Office — they will scan and send it for you.
👉 Buy return-friendly mailing bags here
Sending Mail Abroad
To post internationally:
- Ask for international delivery at the counter
- Complete a customs declaration form if needed
- Choose from economy or tracked options
Some restricted items (like food, cosmetics, or batteries) cannot be sent overseas. Ask the clerk or check the Royal Mail website if unsure.
Opening Hours and Queues
Most Post Offices are open:
- Monday to Friday, 9:00am to 5:30pm
- Saturday, 9:00am to 12:30pm or 1:00pm
Some branches inside supermarkets may stay open longer.
Lines can be long during lunch or after work hours — try to visit in the morning if possible.
Final Tips for Newcomers
- Always include a return address on your package
- Use block letters for easier reading
- For valuable items, consider Signed For or Special Delivery
- If you send a lot of mail, ask about Click & Drop (online postage)
👉 Explore Royal Mail’s online postage options here
Final Thoughts
The UK postal system is reliable and easy to use once you understand the basics. Whether you are sending a postcard or returning an online order, your local Post Office is a helpful place to get it done.
Start with small items, ask questions at the counter, and keep your receipts until delivery is confirmed.