Christmas can be an extremely busy time of the year for our postal service – so following these 12 golden rules could help the process to run a lot more smoothly
This festive season, spare a thought for all the posties who are tasked with delivering our mail. They're the closest thing we have to Father Christmas, after all.
As the postal services are coming up to their busiest time of year, there are some steps you can take to help your parcels and letters be delivered and received in a smooth manner.
So taking to Reddit to share advice on the subject, an anonymous postie shared 12 golden rules you must follow to ensure this occurs. From writing addresses correctly and clearly to being polite to your local postal workers – here's everything you need to do this Christmas...
The full list of advice is as follows:
1. Always write the full address with house number and postcode
2. Add a return address on every letter and parcel
3. Use a light-coloured pen on dark envelopes; place stamp top-right
4. Don't post too late or risk missing the deadline.
5. Avoid comments about late delivery as timings vary massively at Christmas
6. A simple thank you or offer of a drink means a lot
7. Never ask posties to search for one item in a fully loaded bag
8. Fit a letterbox big enough for 5×7 cards or provide a secure parcel box
9. Keep paths gritted and clear of ice
10. Don’t cover the letterbox with giant bows or decorations
11. Sharp items (knives, tools, cutlery) need an adult to sign
12. Either repost wrong mail or deliver it to your neighbour
What does the Royal Mail say about Christmas?
The Royal Mail website advises: "To ensure your Christmas letters and parcels reach their destination in good time, it’s always a good idea to post as early as possible."
For 2025, you should keep the following dates in mind when sending parcels and packages:
December 17 - 2nd class and 2nd class signed for
December 19 – Royal Mail Tracked 48
December 20 – First Class and 1st Class Signed for
December 21 – Royal Mail Tracked 24
December 23 – Special Delivery Guaranteed
To ensure the process runs smoothly, Royal Mail also recommends following this advice:
Get wrapped and ready – Always make sure items are packaged properly to avoid damage
Address post correctly – Use clearly labelled envelopes and always include the postcode and return address
Get the postage right – The amount of postage you pay depends on the size and weight of the item you are sending, so always check this before posting
Check prohibited items – Some goods can't be mailed in the UK or internationally, so always do your research first
Save time and print your postage at home – You can do this online at the Royal Mail website
