Royal Mail has confirmed its final posting dates for Christmas 2026, urging customers to "post as early as possible" to ensure festive letters and parcels arrive on time.
The postal service stated that the last posting dates are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change. It advised sending items well ahead of December 25 to guarantee delivery before Christmas Day.
Key Deadlines for Christmas Posting
For those sending gifts or shopping online, the crucial dates are as follows: 2nd Class and 2nd Class Signed For items should be posted by Friday, December 18; Royal Mail Tracked 48 by Saturday, December 19; 1st Class and 1st Class Signed For by Monday, December 21; Royal Mail Tracked 24 by Monday, December 21; and Special Delivery Guaranteed by Wednesday, December 23.
Additionally, Saturday, December 19 is the last posting date for Royal Mail Tracked Returns 48 to arrive back with the sender before Christmas.
Service Breaks and Resumption
Royal Mail will pause collections and deliveries on Friday, December 25 (Christmas Day), Saturday, December 26 (Boxing Day), and Monday, December 28 (substitute bank holiday for Boxing Day). Consequently, Thursday, December 24 (Christmas Eve) will be the final postal service before the festive period, with normal operations resuming on Tuesday, December 29.
