Proof of Postage — What It Is and When You Need It

Proof of postage is a receipt confirming that you handed an item to Royal Mail on a specific date. This can be a free certificate of posting (a stamped slip we give you at the counter) or a tracking reference from a Tracked service.

If you're sending anything — even using a standard stamp — ask for a free certificate of posting. It takes five seconds. The counter prints or stamps a slip with the date and details of what was posted.

This is essential if: - You're returning goods to a retailer and want to prove you sent it within the returns window - You're posting documents to the Home Office, HMRC, or a solicitor - You want any record of posting at all

It is free. It takes no extra time. Always ask for one.

For anything valuable or time-sensitive, use a Tracked service. Royal Mail Tracked 24 and Tracked 48 give you a reference number you can use on the Royal Mail website to see when the item was delivered.

• Tracked 24: aims for next working day delivery
• Tracked 48: aims for delivery within two working days
• Both include compensation cover up to £100

Special Delivery Guaranteed includes up to £500 compensation by default, with next-day-by-1pm delivery.

If a tracked item has not been delivered after the expected timeframe, you can raise a claim with Royal Mail online or ask us to help at the counter. You'll need your tracking number and your certificate of posting or receipt.

For standard (untracked) items, a certificate of posting is your only evidence that the item was sent. Without it, claims are very difficult.

Use Tracked 24 or Tracked 48 for anything you'd be unhappy losing. Get a free certificate of posting for everything else. It costs nothing and provides a dated record that has saved many of our customers a dispute with an online retailer.