When sending something important through the post, you want reassurance that it will reach the right person. That’s where recorded delivery comes in. Often used for legal documents, contracts, or personal items of value, recorded delivery provides extra security by offering proof of posting and a signature on arrival. It’s a straightforward service designed for those times when you need confirmation that your item has been safely received.
How recorded delivery works
Recorded delivery is a tracked postal service that includes a key feature: a signature from the recipient upon delivery. This signature serves as confirmation that the item was received and who signed for it. It’s not the same as full parcel tracking, but it does give peace of mind by providing proof that the item reached its destination. The sender also receives a receipt when the item is posted, which includes a tracking reference that can be used to check the delivery status online.
What’s included in the service
The recorded delivery service—often known as Royal Mail Signed For in the UK—offers several benefits. You’ll get proof of posting, online confirmation of delivery, and the recipient’s signature stored digitally. However, it’s important to note that this service does not guarantee a specific delivery time. It usually follows the standard First Class or Second Class timetable, depending on what you choose, but delivery dates are not guaranteed.
Compensation and protection
Recorded delivery includes basic compensation for loss or damage, up to a set amount. This makes it a good option for sending valuable documents or low-value items where tracking and a signature are important, but full insurance isn’t necessary. If you need guaranteed next-day delivery or higher compensation cover, other services such as Special Delivery may be more suitable.
When to use recorded delivery
Recorded delivery is useful in situations where you need to prove that something was sent and received. It’s commonly used for posting legal paperwork, formal correspondence, or personal documents where proof of delivery could later become important. It’s also used by businesses sending invoices or official notices. While it isn’t a fully tracked service from start to finish, it adds a useful layer of accountability to standard post.
What recorded delivery does not include
Despite the added security, recorded delivery has its limits. It doesn’t offer a guaranteed delivery time, weekend service, or detailed step-by-step tracking. If you’re posting something urgent or of high value, this may not be the best option. The service also doesn’t cover international destinations in the same way—international deliveries often require different types of tracked or signed services depending on the country.
The Difference Between Recorded Delivery and Tracked Services
One of the most common misconceptions is that recorded delivery means full tracking from start to finish. In reality, recorded delivery only provides limited tracking. You’ll see confirmation when the item is posted and when it’s delivered, but not much in between. That’s where confusion can set in, especially if you’re expecting step-by-step updates like you’d get with Special Delivery or a courier service.
With recorded delivery, the focus is on proof rather than visibility. The service is designed to confirm that something was sent and received, not to let you monitor its journey in real time. If you need detailed tracking throughout the delivery process, you’d need to use a tracked or express service instead.
How Long It Takes
Delivery times for recorded delivery depend on whether you use First Class or Second Class. First Class usually arrives the next working day, while Second Class typically takes two to three working days. However, these are aims, not guarantees. If your item is time-sensitive—such as legal forms with a deadline—recorded delivery might not offer the speed you need, even though it gives you proof of arrival.
Where You Can Use It
Recorded delivery is available throughout the UK. It can be used to send letters, large letters and parcels that fit within the size and weight limits set by Royal Mail. You can buy this service over the counter at a Post Office or online through Royal Mail’s Click & Drop system. When you post in person, you’ll receive a stamped proof of posting slip, which you should always keep until the item is marked as delivered.
Handling Disputes and Signature Records
In cases where proof of delivery is needed—for example, a legal dispute or a business transaction—recorded delivery provides the signature of the person who accepted the item. This can be viewed online, and a copy can be requested from Royal Mail if needed. It’s especially helpful when a recipient claims they never received something. The digital signature and delivery time provide a paper trail that can be used as evidence.
Limitations for Valuable Items
While recorded delivery does offer some protection, it’s not intended for high-value items. The compensation limit is fairly low—often around £50—so if you’re sending something like jewellery, electronics, or irreplaceable documents, you’d be better off using Special Delivery. That service offers next-day delivery and a much higher level of insurance, along with full tracking throughout.
International Recorded Options
If you’re posting abroad, recorded delivery won’t work in the same way. Royal Mail does offer International Signed and International Tracked & Signed services, but they follow different rules. Recorded delivery, as understood in the UK, is a domestic service only. Always check the destination country’s postal options before sending anything internationally that needs proof of arrival.
Summary
Recorded delivery is a reliable and affordable way to send items when you need proof of posting and a signature on delivery. It’s ideal for non-urgent documents and parcels where accountability matters but full tracking or guaranteed speed isn’t required. By offering confirmation that your item was received, it adds a level of security to everyday posting without the higher cost of premium services.