Understanding Royal Mail’s 2nd Class Delivery Update
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This week, Royal Mail confirmed a new approach to its 2nd class delivery service, and it’s one that will have a ripple effect across the UK’s independent retail scene.
On 10 July 2025, the regulator Ofcom officially approved Royal Mail’s proposal to change how 2nd class post is delivered. The new model, dropping Saturday deliveries and shifting to an alternate weekday schedule, was announced the same day across major news outlets. The new timetable comes into effect on 28 July 2025.
Here’s what’s changing:
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Week 1: Deliveries on Monday and Wednesday
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Week 2: Deliveries on Tuesday and Thursday
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No Saturday deliveries
Fewer delivery days, no weekend service, and a brand-new rhythm for your operations. It may seem like a small change, but for independent retailers who rely on 2nd class post, this could affect everything from fulfilment flow to customer reviews.
Why It Matters for Independent Retailers
For many small businesses, 2nd class post is the backbone of everyday logistics. It’s affordable, dependable, and widely used to send out online orders, brand materials, and important documents. However, this new schedule calls for a rethink.
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Slower Delivery Times: Orders placed before non-delivery days may sit in transit for longer.
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Customer Expectations: Without clear communication, delays could erode trust or trigger negative feedback.
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Operational Planning: With fewer dispatch windows, you may need to adjust your fulfilment strategy.
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Returns & Refunds: Slower post may impact returns and exchanges, especially where deadlines apply.
Practical Steps You Can Take
To stay ahead and protect the customer experience, consider these smart next steps:
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Update Delivery Info: Refresh your website, product pages, and checkout screens to reflect the new schedule.
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Communicate Proactively: Use email, SMS, or a social post to let customers know what’s changed.
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Offer Delivery Upgrades: Where budget allows, consider giving customers a 1st class or courier option for urgent orders.
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Review Returns Policies: Build in a little extra flexibility to account for slower return post.
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Brief Your Team: Ensure your fulfilment and customer service teams are in the loop and ready to advise customers.
“Royal Mail has introduced a new delivery schedule for 2nd class post, with deliveries now made on alternate weekdays and no longer on Saturdays. Your order may take a little longer than usual, thank you for your patience and continued support!”
Looking Ahead: Stay Agile, Stay Informed
Delivery networks are evolving, and while this change may bring some short-term disruption, clear and timely communication will help you navigate it with minimal friction.
Stay informed about Royal Mail updates, and consider joining retailer communities or industry groups. Listening to how others are adapting could spark new ideas or solutions for your own business.
In time of change agility is essential. By taking a few proactive steps now, you can continue to deliver the kind of service your customers value, even as the postal landscape gets redrawn.
