How to buy new UK stamps as non-barcode versions expire
Today, is the last day you can use stamps without a barcode in the UK, as the Royal Mail moves to modernise the UK mailing system.
Anyone using un-barcoded stamps after the deadline will risk a surcharge, as it will be regarded as insufficient postage. Here's everything you need to know about the new design and process.
Why are barcodes being added to stamps?
The new unique barcodes will help Royal Mail's operational efficiencies. They will help connect physical stamps to the digital world and "enable greater security," Royal Mail's website states.
The new design will replace all 'definitive stamps' which are the regular everyday stamps used to post letters that feature the profile of HM The Queen.
There are some exclusions. For example, special issue stamps to commemorate an event or person, as well as Christmas stamps, will remain valid without a barcode.
What do you do with your old stamps?
While regular stamps without a barcode will no longer be valid after 31 July 2023. Royal Mail are aware that many of us will have a pile of unused stamps we can no longer use.
Therefore, any stamps you own can be swapped for the new barcoded ones. To take advantage of this scheme, you need to complete a form and send it off to a Freepost address, along with the stamps you wish to swap.
Royal Mail will then send you the new barcoded stamps in return. If you don’t have access to a printer, you can complete the online form as well. And the good news, is there is no deadline for swapping out old stamps. To find out more information, visit the Royal Mail website.
How much will the new barcoded stamps cost?
The cost of the new stamps will vary depending on the class and how many are in the pack. Here's a rundown:
1st Class barcoded (book of 4): £4.40
1st Class barcoded (book of 8): £8.80
2nd Class barcoded (book of 8): £6.00
1st Class large barcoded (book of 4): £6.40
2nd Class large barcoded (book of 4): £4.60
You can also buy bulk packs, which may be more cost-effective if you send a lot of letters. The prices range from £37.50 for a pack of 50 2nd class barcoded stamps to £80 for 50 first class barcoded stamps.
Where to buy new barcoded stamps online?
Stamps can be purchased via the Royal Mail website, as well as numerous other stockists including Amazon, Staples and numerous supermarkets such as Tesco.
Royal Mail 1st Class Stamps (Book of 4) | £4.40 from Staples
Royal Mail 2nd Class Large Letter Stamps (Book of 4) | £4.60 from Staples
Royal Mail 2nd Class Stamps (Book of 8) | £6 from Staples
Royal Mail 2nd Class Stamps (Sheet of 50) | £37.50 from Staples
Best online stockists:
Shop at Royal Mail Shop at Staples Shop at Tesco Shop at Amazon Shop at My Post Shop Shop at Oliver Bonas
