Guide to Royal Mail Postage Rates and Envelope Sizes
For those asking “What are the current UK postage rates?” or “How much is 1st class Royal Mail?”, here is a detailed guide covering the dimensions, weight limits, and postage suggestions to help you navigate these questions.
What are the Royal Mail 1st and 2nd class postage rates?
Note: Prices may have changed since August 2023. Always verify with the Royal Mail website for the latest rates.
| Type of Letter | Weight | 1st Class Price | 1st Class Signed For | 2nd Class Price | 2nd Class Signed For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Letter | Any | £1.65 | £3.35 | 85p | £2.55 |
| Large Letter | Up to 100g | £2.60 | £4.30 | 75p | £3.20 |
| 101g – 250g | £3.75 | £5.45 | £1.85 | £4.30 | |
| 251g – 500g | £4.45 | £6.15 | £2.40 | £4.85 | |
| 501g – 750g | £4.80 | £6.50 | £2.70 | £5.15 | |
| Parcels | Any | £4.09 | — | £3.25 | — |
| Tracked Services | Any | Tracked 24 from £4.25 | — | Tracked 48 from £3.39 | — |
For rolled and cylinder-shaped parcels, the length of the item plus twice the diameter must not exceed 104cm, with the greatest dimension being no more than 90cm.
Envelope Size Categories Explained
Understanding postage rates and envelope requirements can be challenging, especially when you need to make sure your mail stays within the Royal Mail’s specified size and weight limits. Whether you’re planning a bulk mailing or simply trying to send documents cost-effectively, it’s essential to know which envelope size meets the specific postage criteria.
Standard Letter Size
Max Dimensions: 240mm x 165mm
Max Thickness: 5mm
Max Weight: 100g
Examples: Greeting cards, personal letters
Recommended Envelopes: C6, DL, C5 envelopes
Can I put two standard stamps on a large letter: While it is possible to use multiple stamps, ensure that the total postage matches or exceeds the required amount for larger letter sizes.
Large Letter Size
Max Dimensions: 353mm x 250mm
Max Thickness: 25mm
Max Weight: 750g
Examples: Magazines, A4 documents
Recommended Envelopes: C4 envelopes
For those wondering What is the largest envelope size for standard post?: A C4 envelope, measuring 324mm x 229mm, fits comfortably within this limit.
Small Parcel Size
Max Dimensions: 450mm x 350mm x 160mm
Max Weight: 2kg
Examples: Lightweight clothing items
Recommended Packaging: Padded envelopes, book wraps
Medium Parcel Size
Max Dimensions: 610mm x 460mm x 460mm
Max Weight: 20kg
Examples: Gift boxes, bulkier items
Recommended Packaging: Book wraps, boxes
Essential Royal Mail Packaging Guidelines
Shipping costs increase proportionally with the size of the parcel. Ensuring your items are packed correctly can help avoid complications and additional fees.
- Required Information: Attach a barcode, the recipient’s full address (including postcode), and a UK return address. Ensure you include a complete sales order within the parcel.
- Protective Packaging: Items with sharp edges or irregular shapes should be placed in padded mailers or protective bags to prevent damage or injury.
- Special Wrapping Materials: If you intend to use tape, string, strapping, or document wallets on your parcel, get prior approval from Royal Mail.
- Label Clarity: The shipping label should be printed clearly and be easy to read for proper processing.
- Double-Label Precaution: Include one address label securely on the exterior and place an additional copy inside the parcel as a backup.
- Small Parcel Tips: Ensure that barcodes and address details remain flat and are not folded or wrapped around the edges.
- Avoid Overlapping Tape: Do not apply adhesive tape over the label, as it can make scanning difficult.
- Label Printing: Use a thermal printer for in-house label printing, and ensure the label design complies with Royal Mail-approved software.
- Fragile Item Protection: For packages containing multiple delicate items, ensure the items do not touch each other or the sides of the box.
- Cushioning Materials: Utilize bubble wrap, foam inserts, or book wraps as needed, especially for fragile items, to prevent damage during transit.
- Secure Sealing: Seal all openings and edges
FAQ on Envelopes and Royal Mail Postage Rates
We answer cusotmers most common questions regarding Royal Mail postage rates.The maximum size for standard letter postage is 240mm x 165mm with a weight of up to 100g. A C5 envelope, measuring 229mm x 162mm, is a perfect fit for this category.
Standard Letter:
1st Class: £1.10
2nd Class: 75p
Large Letter (weight-dependent):
Up to 100g: 1st Class £2.60 / 2nd Class 75p
101g–250g: 1st Class £3.75 / 2nd Class £1.85
251g–500g: 1st Class £4.45 / 2nd Class £2.40
501g–750g: 1st Class £4.80 / 2nd Class £2.70
Note: Prices may have changed since August 2023. Always verify with the Royal Mail website for the latest rates.
Envelopes exceeding 240mm x 165mm, 5mm thickness, or 100g weight move to the ‘large letter’ category or higher, requiring additional postage.
Items with non-standard shapes may not fit into typical envelope categories. To ensure your mail is processed correctly, measure its dimensions and weight precisely. If it doesn’t align with standard letter or large letter sizes, it will likely be classified as a small or medium parcel. Using Royal Mail’s Price Finder tool can help confirm the correct postage category.
Write a complete answer to the most frequent questions that your customers might have, such as important product information, shipping policies, payment issues or returns.
Royal Mail offers tracking services for specific postage options, such as Tracked 24, Tracked 48, and Special Delivery Guaranteed. To monitor your item’s progress, use the Track & Trace service.
If your mail is lost or delayed, you can file a claim with Royal Mail. Keep proof of postage and any relevant tracking information handy. Visit the Royal Mail claims page for detailed instructions on how to proceed.
Sending items internationally requires a customs declaration form that details the contents and their value. Ensure you fill out the correct customs form to avoid delays. Check Royal Mail’s guidelines for international sending for full details.
A 2nd Class stamp for a standard letter, costing 75p, is the most affordable option. To qualify, use an envelope like C5 or smaller and ensure the weight and thickness align with the letter specifications.