Royal Mail has confirmed a major change to its postal delivery system, ending Saturday deliveries for 2nd class mail. The postal service is distributing leaflets to UK households explaining the modifications.
Alternating weekday service from 2026
From 2026, 2nd class letters and cards will operate on alternating weekdays only. Deliveries will follow a pattern of Monday, Wednesday, Friday one week, then Tuesday, Thursday the next week. Saturday deliveries for 2nd class mail have been permanently abolished.
Royal Mail stated: "Over the coming months, you may notice a change to how we deliver 2nd class letters." The service still targets delivery within three working days, though weekend gaps mean Thursday posts may not arrive until the following Tuesday.
Stamp prices and compensation
Standard 2nd class stamps cost 91p with maximum compensation of £20 for loss or damage. The changes follow Ofcom reforms announced in July 2025 after extensive consultation.
First class and parcels unaffected
First class deliveries remain unaffected, continuing six days a week Monday to Saturday. Parcels will also continue to be delivered up to seven days a week.
Royal Mail explained the changes are necessary as "fewer letters are being sent these days" and will help deliver "a more consistent and dependable" service.
