Postage Prices

The Royal Mail has changed the system for pricing packages over recent years. There are also different rates depending on whether you are sending first or second class. By understanding the current Royal Mail posting prices, you can make sure you have enough to cover your needs.

1st Class Standard Size Letters

1st class letters usually arrive within three business days. In fact, most will find that their letter is received the next day depending on the time of sending. The cost of a 1st Class stamp is £0.60, which offers up to £20 compensation for the item.

For those who need to have the item signed for, or where the item is more valuable, there are other 1st Class options. "Signed for" items will have a proof of delivery and cost £1.70, while "Special Delivery" are guaranteed by 1pm or 9am at the cost of £6.22 and £17.64 respectfully.

1st Class Larger Letters and Heavier Weights

The above prices are just for standard sized letters. For larger ones, the cost rises of £0.90 for those requiring standard delivery. This also increases with the weight of packages, with the cost of £2.30 for those that are between 501g and 750g.

2nd Class Standard Size Letters

Anything sent 2nd Class is likely to arrive within three business days, but in some cases it can take up to a week. The cost for sending a standard letter with standard delivery is just £0.10 less than sending 1st Class. The same applies for sending "signed for" packages second class. There is no option for a "guaranteed delivery."

2nd Class Larger Letters and Heavier Weights

Larger letters cost £0.69 to send through this slower delivery option, where the weight is up to 100g. From there, like 1st Class, the cost goes up in increments. The next size, between 101g and 250g, costs £1.10, while 501g to 750g packages cost £1.90.

The Sizes of Letters

Standard letters are acceptable up to 24cm in length by 16.5cm in width. The thickness is no more than 0.5cm. Letters up to 35.5cm by 25cm with a thickness of up to 2.5cm are considered large. From there, the letters will be considered to be parcels.

It is important to understand the costs. This can help to determine the best way of sending a letter or parcel with the Royal Mail service.