Royal Mail last Christmas post dates 2022 and when to…

Royal Mail last Christmas post dates 2022 and when to avoid Post Office

Royal Mail strikes mean that the usual deadlines for Christmas post fall slightly earlier than usual, as a series of staff walk-outs in December put even more pressure on the busiest period of the year for the postal service.

Pictures have been shared of piles of undelivered post reportedly being left out in the elements at Bristol Mail Centre, although Royal Mail said the images "show busy mail centres with thousands of parcels moving through our network and this is typical for this time of the year".

The Communication Workers Union (CWU) has called national strike action for members who collect, sort and deliver parcels and letters, with the remaining strike dates listed as today (Wednesday, December 14), Thursday (December 15), Friday (December 23) and Saturday (December 24). Royal Mail says it has "well-developed contingency plans" but that the action is likely to cause disruption.

A spokesperson added: “The CWU is striking at our busiest time, holding Christmas to ransom for our customers, businesses and families across the country. We apologise to our customers and strongly urge them to post early for Christmas."

Last year the date for last posting for second class was December 18, but this year it was several days earlier. The cut-off for Royal Mail Bulk Mail Economy has already passed (December 7) as has 2nd Class, 2nd Class Signed For and Royal Mail 48, all of which had a cut-off of Monday (December 12) to make Christmas deliveries.

Last year first class posting had a date of December 21, but again this year is much earlier - but you just about have time to make the deadline if you're reading this before the weekend. Laura Joseph, Post Office customer experience director, said: “Royal Mail has brought forward the last recommended posting dates for many of its services.

"As a result, Friday December 16 is now likely to be even busier in Post Office branches as customers race to ensure cards and gifts arrive for Christmas Day. As soon as you’ve got your parcels ready to go get them in the post – many Post Office branches are open long hours, and some are open seven days a week so pop into your local branch and get your gifts sent in time for Christmas."

Below is the list of last posting dates according to the Royal Mail website.