Postal box royal mail

A postal box, also known as a postbox or mailbox, is a container used to collect mail and packages from the public. In the United Kingdom, the postal boxes are typically operated by Royal Mail, the national postal service.

Here are some interesting facts about postal boxes in the UK:

  1. Red postboxes: The iconic red postboxes are a symbol of the UK's postal service. They were first introduced in 1874 and were designed by John Simms, a British engineer. The red color was chosen to make the boxes stand out against the surrounding environment.
  2. Over 115,000 postboxes: As of 2020, there are over 115,000 postboxes in the UK, making it one of the most extensive postal networks in the world.
  3. Free to use: Postal boxes are free to use, and you can deposit your mail and packages in them at any time.
  4. Collection times: Postboxes are typically emptied by Royal Mail staff at regular intervals, usually during the day. The exact collection times may vary depending on the location and the volume of mail.
  5. Special postboxes: There are several special postboxes in the UK, including:
    • Blue postboxes: These are used for collecting mail for the Royal Family and are typically found at royal residences.
    • Green postboxes: These are used for collecting mail for the British Army and are typically found at military bases.
    • Special commemorative postboxes: These are used to collect mail for specific events or charities, such as the London 2012 Olympics or Children in Need.
  6. Postbox etiquette: When using a postal box, it's considered polite to:
    • Deposit your mail and packages in the box carefully to avoid damaging the contents or the box itself.
    • Make sure the box is not overcrowded, as this can cause delays in collection.
    • Not use the postbox for storing items other than mail and packages.

Overall, postal boxes play a vital role in the UK's postal service, allowing people to easily send and receive mail and packages.