Royal Mail Barcode Stamps: Transitioning from Non-Barcoded Stamps

The clock is ticking for those who still have standard non-barcoded stamps. Royal Mail has announced that Monday is the final day these stamps can be used for posting items.

After this deadline, using these stamps could result in the recipient being charge a surcharge of £1.10. This move marks a significant shift towards the use of Royal Mail Barcode Stamps.

The Exceptions to the Royal Mail Barcode Stamps Rule

While the Barcode Stamps are set to become the norm, there are a few exceptions. Also Commemorative and non-barcoded Christmas stamps will continue to be valid.

For those with old stamps, Royal Mail offers a Swap Out scheme, allowing people to exchange their old stamps for the new Barcode Stamps without any deadline. This scheme is a crucial part of the transition to Royal Mail Barcode Stamps.

The introduction of the Barcode Stamps is not without consequences. After Monday, any mail sent using non-barcoded stamps will be subject to a £1.10 surcharge fee.

Recipients of such mail will receive a “Fee to Pay” card. Informing them of the surcharge that needs to be paid before the item can be deliver. This change underscores the importance of transitioning to Royal Mail Barcode Stamps.

The Reason Behind the Stamps

The Barcode Stamps introduced in February last year with the aim of enhancing delivery efficiency and security.

Matthew Parkes, managing director of Stamps and Collectibles at Royal Mail, stated that the move is part of the company’s ongoing modernisation drive.

The barcodes add security features and pave the way for innovative customer services in the future. The introduction of Royal Mail Barcode Stamps is a significant step in this modernisation process.

The Swap Out scheme allows customers to exchange regular 1st and 2nd Class “everyday” stamps, featuring the profile of the late Queen Elizabeth, for the new Barcode Stamps.

However, non-barcoded Christmas and other special stamps with pictures on should not be submit for swapping.

Customers can send their old stamps to Freepost SWAP OUT to participate in the scheme. This scheme is a crucial part of the transition to Barcode Stamps.

The long-term plan for Royal Mail Barcode Stamps involves people scanning the QR code with the Royal Mail app. This will allow them to watch videos and send birthday messages to each other.

The barcodes will connect physical stamps to the digital world, opening up exciting new services for customers.

As the Barcode Stamps become the norm, the world of postage is set to undergo a significant transformation. The future of postage is clearly moving towards Barcode Stamps.