How to avoid royal mail handling fee

The Royal Mail handling fee! It can be frustrating to pay extra for something that seems like a basic service. Here are some tips to help you avoid or minimize the Royal Mail handling fee:

1. Use a tracked and signed-for service: When sending items, opt for a tracked and signed-for service, such as Royal Mail Signed For or Special Delivery. This ensures that your item is tracked and requires a signature upon delivery, which can help prevent losses and disputes.
2. Use a courier service: Consider using a courier service like Parcel Monkey, Parcel2Go, or My Hermes, which may offer more competitive pricing and fewer handling fees.
3. Use a Royal Mail account: If you're a business or send a high volume of mail, consider opening a Royal Mail account. This can help you avoid handling fees and provide other benefits, such as discounted rates and priority customer support.
4. Use a Royal Mail drop-off point: Instead of posting items at a post office, use a Royal Mail drop-off point, such as a postbox or a Royal Mail collection point. This can help you avoid the handling fee associated with posting items at a post office.
5. Use a pre-paid envelope or package: When sending items, use a pre-paid envelope or package from Royal Mail or a third-party provider. This can help you avoid the handling fee associated with posting items at a post office.
6. Check the Royal Mail website: Before sending an item, check the Royal Mail website to see if there are any special deals or promotions that can help you avoid the handling fee.
7. Use a third-party shipping platform: Consider using a third-party shipping platform like ShipStation or ShippingEasy, which can help you automate your shipping process and potentially reduce handling fees.
8. Avoid sending items that require special handling: If you're sending items that require special handling, such as fragile or oversized items, be prepared to pay a handling fee.
9. Use a Royal Mail business centre: If you're a business, consider using a Royal Mail business centre, which can provide you with a dedicated account manager and discounted rates.
10. Negotiate with Royal Mail: If you're a large business or send a high volume of mail, you may be able to negotiate a better deal with Royal Mail, including reduced handling fees.

Remember, handling fees are typically charged for services that require additional handling, such as special delivery, signature upon delivery, or fragile item handling. By choosing the right service and following these tips, you can minimize or avoid the Royal Mail handling fee.