Royal Mail says that mail volumes have doubled over the Christmas period, leaving some postcodes facing massive delivery delays.
In an attempt to ease the delivery backlog, some reports claim that Royal Mail is implementing a “short-term contingency measure” to deliver packages that would otherwise take up too much space.
It comes as the UK postal service rushes to get everyone’s Christmas gifts, cards and letter out on time, with just days left until Christmas arrives.
“We know how important letters and parcels are, especially in the run-up to Christmas,” said a Royal Mail spokesperson.
“This is our busiest time of year, with mail volumes more than doubling, but the vast majority of mail continues to be delivered on time.
“Where there is disruption, we work to resolve it as quickly as possible and keep services moving. Last year, 99% of items posted by the last recommended posting dates were delivered in time for Christmas, and our teams are working hard to deliver the same level of service again this year,” they said.
But is there still time to post something before Christmas? You might be in luck, but be quick.
When is the last day to post before Christmas?
Many mailing deadlines have now passed, but there are still a few last-minute options for those who need something sent urgently before Christmas.
Unfortunately, any 1st and 2nd-class postage sent now won’t arrive before Christmas.
The two remaining options you have for domestic post are:
- Parcel Force – Express10, ExpressPM, Express24 (send by December 22)
- Royal Mail – Special Delivery Guaranteed® (send by December 23)