Get ready for Christmas 2026
Here you’ll find all the information you’ll need to make sure your Christmas deliveries arrive on time, including the last posting dates and how to send your letters and parcels with Royal Mail.
Beat the festive rush and post your Christmas cards and gifts early
Allow plenty of time for posting this Christmas. Post items and gifts early, particularly for International deliveries.
Last Christmas Posting Dates
Last Posting Dates for inland services (Christmas 2026)
Please note: Last posting dates are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change. It’s always advisable to post as early as possible to ensure that your Christmas letters and parcels reach their destination in good time.
| Friday 18 December | 2nd Class 2nd Class Signed For |
| Saturday 19 December | Royal Mail Tracked 48®† |
| Monday 21 December | 1st Class 1st Class Signed For Royal Mail Tracked 24® |
| Wednesday 23 December | Special Delivery Guaranteed® |
† Saturday 19 December is the last posting date for Royal Mail Tracked Returns® 48 to arrive back with the sender before Christmas.
| Monday 21 December | express48 express48large |
| Tuesday 22 December | express10 expressAM express24 |
Last Posting Dates between UK and BFPOs worldwide (Christmas 2026)
| Last posting date from the UK | Last arrival at BFPO | |
|---|---|---|
| Static Firm Base/PJOBs | 24 October | 30 October |
| Operations | 17 November | 24 November |
| HM Ships | 17 November | 24 November |
Inbound UK from BFPOs worldwide
All locations, including HM Ships, are to note that the deadline for return of mail to meet delivery of items in UK should be targeted at Wednesday, 16 December 2026 for all class of items.
This should allow enough time for private mail items to enter and transit the UK civil mail system in time for Christmas.
Last posting dates PDFs
Preparing your Christmas post
Preparing Christmas cards
From Christmas card inspiration to how to address and post your cards, find our preparation advice below.
Preparing Christmas parcels
Use these handy guides to help you get your Christmas gifts and parcels to their destinations safe and sound
Tracking Christmas post
Stay on top of your deliveries when receiving or sending gifts in time for Christmas.