Delivery time
How long does Royal Mail take to deliver?
Royal Mail delivery time depends on the service class. Here's how long each Royal Mail service takes within the UK and abroad.
Royal Mail domestic delivery times
| Service | Typical time |
|---|---|
| 1st Class | 1–2 working days (aim next day) |
| 2nd Class | 2–3 working days |
| Tracked 24 | next working day (aim) |
| Tracked 48 | 2–3 working days |
Royal Mail international delivery times
| Service | Typical time |
|---|---|
| International Tracked | 3–7 working days to Europe; 5–10 worldwide |
| International Standard | 3–10+ working days, no tracking |
Check your exact delivery date
Paste your tracking number — ParcelTrack shows the live status and a re-predicted delivery estimate for your specific parcel.
What affects Royal Mail delivery time
- Service class (1st vs 2nd, tracked vs untracked)
- Working days only — Sundays and bank holidays don't count
- Customs for international items
- December and strike-related backlogs
Royal Mail delivery time FAQ
How long does Royal Mail 1st Class take?
1st Class aims to deliver the next working day, typically 1–2 working days, but it's an aim rather than a guarantee.
Is Royal Mail 2nd Class tracked?
Standard 1st and 2nd Class aren't tracked. Royal Mail Tracked 24 and Tracked 48 add full tracking you can follow here.