When you're sending something urgent, valuable or sensitive, you want to know it’ll get there safely and on time. Special Delivery is designed for exactly that. But how much does it cost? The answer depends on a few factors—mainly weight, delivery speed, and the value of what you're sending. Here's everything you need to know before you head to the Post Office or book online.
What Special Delivery Offers
This isn’t standard post—it’s a premium tracked service with guaranteed delivery by either 1pm or 9am the next working day. It includes:
- Full end-to-end tracking
- Signature on delivery
- Compensation for loss or damage
- Guaranteed arrival or your money back
It's ideal for legal documents, passports, jewellery, electronics or anything you really don’t want delayed or lost.
Delivery by 1pm vs Delivery by 9am
There are two service levels, and they’re priced differently:
- By 1pm: More affordable, and covers the majority of UK addresses. This is the standard Special Delivery option.
- By 9am: Premium tier for those needing ultra-early arrival. It’s available to most—but not all—UK locations, and it’s significantly more expensive.
The difference in price can be notable. For example, a small item under 100g might cost just over £7 for 1pm delivery but around £23 or more for 9am. The heavier the parcel, the greater the cost difference.
Pricing Based on Weight
Prices increase with parcel weight. Here's a general idea (accurate as of early 2025, but always check before sending):
- Up to 100g: Starts at approx. £7.50 for 1pm or £23 for 9am
- Up to 500g: Around £8.50–£10.50 for 1pm
- Up to 1kg: £11+ depending on time and cover
- Up to 2kg: Prices push toward £15+
- 2kg to 20kg: Maximum cost applies, nearing £30 or more depending on insurance
Heavier items must be properly packaged, and you may be asked to repack at the counter if they don’t meet safety or dimension standards.
Insurance and Compensation Options
Every item sent with Special Delivery includes compensation cover up to £750. If your item is worth more, you can increase that cover to:£1,000 and £2,500 (the maximum)
Each tier adds a bit more to the overall cost, but it’s essential if you’re sending high-value goods. If your parcel goes missing or is damaged, Royal Mail will reimburse you based on the declared value (as long as it meets the criteria).
Tracking and Signature Details
You’ll be given a tracking number at the point of sending, and you can follow your parcel every step of the way online. The recipient will be asked to sign for it, and you can view proof of delivery with their name and the time it was received. This is especially useful for legal purposes or business transactions.
Weekend and Bank Holiday Deliveries
Special Delivery is a weekday service, but Saturday delivery is available—at an extra cost. You’ll need to request this specifically. For example:
- Saturday delivery by 1pm could cost around £1.50–£3 more than weekday rates.
- There is no Special Delivery on Sundays or bank holidays.
If you post something on a Friday without selecting Saturday delivery, it’ll arrive on Monday instead.
Remote Areas and Exceptions
While the service aims to be national, there are exceptions. Certain remote postcodes in Scotland, the Highlands, Northern Ireland, and the Channel Islands may not qualify for next-day or 9am guarantees. In these cases, delivery is still prioritised, but the guarantee might extend to 48 hours. Check postcodes on the Royal Mail website if you're unsure.
Prohibited or Restricted Items
Some items can't be sent via Special Delivery at all, including:
- Aerosols
- Nail varnish
- Perfume
- Some batteries
- Flammable liquids
Others, like jewellery or electronics, can be sent but must meet strict packaging guidelines. If you're sending a phone, for example, it needs to be cushioned and sealed within rigid packaging. If your item doesn't comply, it could be delayed or even returned.
Posting Tips to Avoid Surprises
- Always check weight and dimensions before you go.
- Bring ID if posting high-value items—some counters may ask for verification.
- If you buy postage online, you might get a small discount.
- Keep your receipt and tracking info until delivery is confirmed.
Extra Costs to Be Aware Of
Special Delivery is a premium service, and with that comes the potential for extra charges that aren’t always obvious at first glance. While the base cost is tied to weight and speed, there are other details that can affect how much you’ll end up paying.
Saturday Delivery Charges
Posting something on a Friday doesn’t guarantee a Saturday delivery unless you specifically request it. Saturday Guaranteed Delivery is a separate service that costs more than the standard weekday option. If it isn’t selected, your parcel will be held until the next working day, which is usually Monday. Many people assume next-day applies to Saturdays by default, but that’s not the case.
Size and Shape Considerations
Even a lightweight parcel can attract extra fees if it’s unusually shaped or oversized. Royal Mail has strict guidelines for parcel dimensions, and anything that falls outside these limits might be subject to additional charges or may not be accepted for Special Delivery at all. It’s important to package your item efficiently and ensure it fits within standard size limits to avoid delays or unexpected costs.
The Cost of Packaging
Special Delivery doesn’t come with free packaging materials. If you arrive at the Post Office without a suitable envelope or box, you’ll need to buy one there. These costs vary depending on the type and size of the packaging you choose. It’s a small detail, but if you’re sending items regularly, it can add up over time.
Repacking at the Counter
If your parcel isn’t packed securely or doesn’t meet the service requirements, you may be asked to repackage it. Post Office staff can refuse to accept items that aren’t safe or suitable for transport, especially if the item is fragile or of high value. In that case, you’ll have to use in-store materials, which again increases the total cost.
Why These Details Matter
These smaller aspects are easy to overlook when you’re focusing on the speed and reliability of the delivery. But they can influence both the price and the success of your send. Being aware of them in advance means fewer delays and a smoother experience when you go to post your item.
Summary
Special Delivery is a premium service that guarantees fast, secure delivery across the UK with full tracking and insurance. Prices range from around £7 to over £30 depending on weight, value and how quickly you need it delivered. Whether you're posting sensitive documents, tech, or irreplaceable items, it's the most secure option available through Royal Mail. Just be aware of the cost structure, cover options and any area-based delays so you can plan your send properly.