Royal mail postcodes uk
Royal Mail is the primary postal service in the United Kingdom, and it uses a postcode system to help sort and deliver mail efficiently. Here's an overview of the Royal Mail postcode system in the UK:
What is a postcode? A postcode, also known as a postal code, is a series of letters and numbers that identifies a specific geographic area, such as a town, city, or region. It helps Royal Mail and other postal services to deliver mail and packages to the correct address.
Format of a UK postcode A UK postcode typically consists of two parts:
- Outward code (also known as the "inward code"): This is the first half of the postcode, which identifies the area or region. It usually starts with a letter and is followed by one or two numbers.
- Inward code (also known as the "outward code"): This is the second half of the postcode, which identifies a specific street or group of streets. It usually starts with a letter and is followed by one or two numbers.
Example of a UK postcode A typical UK postcode might look like this: "SW1A 1AA". In this example:
- "SW1" is the outward code, which identifies the area (in this case, the City of Westminster).
- "A 1AA" is the inward code, which identifies a specific street or group of streets.
Types of postcodes in the UK There are several types of postcodes in the UK, including:
- Urban postcodes: These are used for cities and towns, and typically have a more detailed inward code.
- Rural postcodes: These are used for rural areas, and may have a less detailed inward code.
- Postal districts: These are larger areas that are used for sorting and delivery purposes.
- Sector postcodes: These are smaller areas within a postal district, used for more precise sorting and delivery.
How to find a postcode in the UK You can find a postcode in the UK using various methods, including:
- Royal Mail's postcode finder: You can use Royal Mail's online postcode finder tool to search for a postcode by entering a street name, town, or postcode.
- Google Maps: You can use Google Maps to search for a postcode by entering a street name, town, or postcode.
- Postcode directories: You can use online directories or printed books to look up postcodes.