How to Choose the Right Delivery Option at Checkout
Discover how to pick the best shipping method when shopping online — balancing speed, cost, and security for each order.
Learn moreParcel App benefits for Royal Mail delivery
1
Wide Coverage
Delivers mail and parcels across the UK and to over 230 countries globally.
2
Tracking and Notifications
Offers tracking and delivery updates for most services.
3
Trusted and Experienced
Over 500 years of service with strong customer trust.
4
Global Network
Collaborates with carriers like [USPS](/carriers/us-post) and [Canada Post](/carriers/ca-post) for international delivery.
Royal Mail is the primary postal service in the United Kingdom, with a history dating back to 1516. It delivers millions of letters and parcels every day, both domestically and to over 230 countries and territories worldwide.
Royal Mail offers a variety of services, including:
- Royal Mail 1st Class: Fast delivery within 1 business day across the UK.
- Royal Mail 2nd Class: Affordable delivery within 2–3 business days.
- Tracked 24 and Tracked 48: Tracked parcel services with delivery confirmation and notifications.
- Special Delivery Guaranteed®: Next-day guaranteed delivery with compensation in case of delay.
- International Standard and International Tracked: Reliable services for international shipping, with or without tracking.
Royal Mail tracking numbers vary depending on the service. International tracking numbers typically follow the S10 format, with 13 characters (e.g., RU123456789GB).
To track your Royal Mail shipment, enter the tracking number on the Royal Mail tracking page. You’ll receive real-time updates on the parcel’s status and estimated delivery.
For international shipments, Royal Mail partners with local postal operators such as USPS, Canada Post, and Australia Post, ensuring a seamless handoff and final delivery abroad.
In addition to postal delivery, Royal Mail offers value-added services including insurance, delivery notifications, undelivered item returns, and packaging supplies. With a reputation built on centuries of service, Royal Mail remains one of Europe’s most trusted logistics providers.
Shipment Tracking Statuses
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Pending
Awaiting Processing
The parcel has been registered in the system but has not yet been handed over for processing. The seller may have created the tracking number, but the package hasn’t been shipped yet.
•
In Transit
In Transit
The package has left the sender’s warehouse and is on its way to the destination. It may be passing through sorting centers or customs.
•
Delivered
Delivered
The parcel has been successfully delivered to the recipient. Delivery is usually confirmed by a signature or other confirmation.
•
Not Found
Shipment Not Found
The status means there is no information about the package. Possible reasons include an incorrect tracking number, the package not yet registered in the system, or it is no longer being tracked.
FAQ
How do I track a Royal Mail package?
Enter your tracking number on the Royal Mail tracking page to get real-time status updates.
What does a Royal Mail tracking number look like?
International numbers usually follow the S10 format, such as RU123456789GB. Domestic formats may differ.
How long does Royal Mail take to deliver?
Delivery within the UK typically takes 1–3 business days. International delivery times vary by destination and service.
How does Royal Mail handle international shipping?
Royal Mail works with partners like USPS and Australia Post to complete international deliveries.
How can I contact Royal Mail?
Visit https://www.royalmail.com or go to your nearest post office for assistance.
Guides & Manuals
What to Do If Your Package Is Stuck in Transit
Learn what to do when your delivery tracking stops updating and your package seems stuck in transit.
Learn more
How to prevent package theft and loss
Learn effective strategies to protect your packages from theft and loss
Learn more