How long is uncollected registered mail held at sorting office

In the UK, Royal Mail's standard practice is to hold uncollected registered mail at a sorting office for a certain period before returning it to the sender. The exact length of time can vary depending on the specific circumstances, but here are some general guidelines:

  1. Initial holding period: If the item is not collected within 18 working days (approximately 3-4 weeks) of the sorting office receiving it, Royal Mail will hold it for an additional 14 days.
  2. Total holding period: In total, Royal Mail will hold the item for a maximum of 32 working days (approximately 6-7 weeks) before returning it to the sender.

During this time, the item will be stored at the sorting office and may be subject to additional handling fees. If the item is not collected or claimed within the holding period, it will be returned to the sender, and they will be notified.

It's worth noting that if you're expecting a registered item and it's been longer than the expected delivery time, you can contact Royal Mail's customer service to inquire about the status of your item. They may be able to provide more information or help you track it down.

Remember to always check your tracking information and contact Royal Mail if you have any concerns about your registered mail.