Royal Mail has confirmed a series of changes to its delivery service, with second class letters set to be delivered on alternate days only as part of reforms aimed at modernising the UK postal service. Standard bulk business letters, used for items such as bills and statements, will shift to a three-day delivery target, according to Royal Mail. First-class mail will continue to be delivered six days a week, Monday through Saturday.
Implementation and Targets
Royal Mail has begun distributing leaflets to households outlining the changes, which are expected to be implemented across all 1,200 delivery units by the end of the year. The company will now aim to deliver 90% of first class letters the following day, reduced from 93% previously. For second class mail, the target falls to 95% delivered within three days, down from 98.5%.
The P739 Code
Awaiting an important letter or parcel can be frustrating, especially if you narrowly miss a delivery. Royal Mail uses a specific code – P739 – to indicate a failed delivery attempt. Should you receive a P739 card, you will be required to collect the item from the sorting office yourself, which may mean waiting until the following day depending on when you discover the card. In certain circumstances, you may be able to arrange a redelivery.
Financial Impact
Royal Mail has witnessed letter revenue fall from £6.9 billion in 2008 to £3.7 billion. The company estimates the revised delivery model could generate savings of between £250 million and £425 million annually.
