First Class

For First Class items weighing upto 100g can be sent with a single 1st class stamp. There is no maximum weight limit for first class. If an item exceeds the tabluated values then add 85p for every extra 250g.

First Class mail is ideal if you want your letter or packet to be delivered the next working day, including Saturday.

Second Class

Upto 100g, a seconf class stamp will cover the cost of second class postage. The maximum weight limit is 1kg. Parcels over 1kg have to be sent either as First Class mail or Standard Parcel service.

The Post Office aims to deliver second class mail by the third working day after posting. Standard parcels are delivered within three to five working days after posting.

Parcels

Standard parcels are delivered within three to five working days after posting.

Recorded Delivery

To send an item by recorder delivery, add 68p to the price of the postage.

Special Delivery

The Royal Mail provides a special delivery service in which an item can be posted to arrive by 9am the next day or before 1pm the next day.

Packing

When quoting a postage and packing cost don't forget to incorporate the cost of actually packing a book. Packing materials such as jiffy bags are not free and it does take time to adequately pack and correctly address parcels.

Packs of 10 A4 brown envelopes can be purchased from several leading supermarket chains for around £1.49. Alternatively, packs of 10 C4 (324mmx229mm) envelopes cost around 70p.

Thus, if a seller is charging £5 for packing then you're being ripped off!

Tips

Recorded items are covered for up to £30 compensation in the event of loss or damage. However, it is free to obtain a "proof of postage" slip when posting your item, which may prove useful in resolving a dispute.

Instead of buying expensive Jiffy bags simply use a standard A4 brown envelope and wrap your book with some spare bubble wrap. It's just as good!

Links

A full summary of the services by the Post Office can be found at Post Office.