How long does royal mail collection office keep parcel

Royal Mail's collection offices, also known as Delivery Offices or Post Offices, typically hold parcels for a limited time before returning them to the sender or attempting to deliver them again. The exact time frame can vary depending on the specific circumstances, but here are some general guidelines:

  1. Initial Holding Period: Royal Mail usually holds parcels for 2-3 working days (Monday to Friday, excluding bank holidays) before attempting to deliver them again. This allows them to try to deliver the parcel to the recipient during this time.
  2. Maximum Holding Period: If the parcel is not delivered or collected within the initial holding period, Royal Mail will typically hold it for a maximum of 10 working days (Monday to Friday, excluding bank holidays). After this period, they will return the parcel to the sender as "undelivered" or "unclaimed".
  3. Special Circumstances: In some cases, Royal Mail may hold a parcel for longer periods if there are special circumstances, such as:
    • The recipient is away on holiday or on a long-term absence.
    • The parcel requires additional processing or handling.
    • The parcel is being held for customs clearance or other regulatory purposes.
  4. Collection from the Collection Office: If you need to collect a parcel from a Royal Mail collection office, you can usually do so during their opening hours. You'll need to provide proof of identity and the parcel's tracking number to collect the parcel.

It's essential to note that these time frames are subject to change, and Royal Mail may have specific policies for certain types of parcels or services. If you're concerned about the status of your parcel, you can:

Remember to always check the tracking information and communicate with the sender or recipient to ensure a smooth delivery process.