Royal Mail scraps delivery service as leaflets sent out explaining all | UK | News

Royal Mail has confirmed major changes to its 2nd class letter delivery service that will affect households across the UK.
The postal service is scrapping Saturday deliveries for 2nd class mail and introducing an alternate weekday schedule. Letters will now be delivered on a rotating basis – Monday, Wednesday, Friday one week, followed by Tuesday, Thursday the next.
Royal Mail explained the changes in leaflets distributed to households, stating: “Over the coming months, you may notice a change to how we deliver 2nd class letters. It’s part of our effort to offer a more reliable and sustainable service shaped around how our customers send today.”
The delivery target remains three working days, but weekend gaps mean a Thursday posting might not arrive until the following Tuesday. A 2nd class stamp costs 91p with maximum compensation of £20 for loss or damage.
The changes follow Ofcom reforms announced in July 2025 after extensive consultation. Royal Mail cited declining letter volumes as justification for the modifications.
First class deliveries remain unaffected, continuing six days a week from Monday to Saturday. Parcel deliveries will also continue up to seven days a week.
The new system will be rolled out “across the UK in 2026” as Royal Mail phases in the changes nationwide.