Product Guide

Royal Mail and Courier Guidelines for Paper Mailing Bags

Royal Mail and courier rules for paper mailing bags: sizes, weights, and rates.

3 min readUpdated April 2025

Royal Mail guidelines

Large letter: 353x250x25mm max, 750g. From 93p 2nd class.
Small parcel: up to 61x46x46cm, 2kg. From £3.35 2nd class.
Paper bags for clothing can often qualify as large letter if folded thin enough

Quick answer

Paper bags with thin contents (folded clothing) can qualify for large letter rates if total thickness stays under 25mm and dimensions under 353x250mm. This saves over £2 per item vs small parcel. Measure packed bags to confirm. Heavier items like jeans or multiple garments often exceed the 750g weight limit. Couriers typically charge by weight with dimensional weight calculations.

Courier guidelines

Most UK couriers (DPD, Evri, DHL) classify paper bags by weight and dimensions. Paper bags are lighter than boxes, often resulting in cheaper courier rates. Some couriers offer specific "mailer" rates for flat packages.

Postage optimisation

Save on postage0 / 3 checked

Use the smallest bag that fits your item
Fold clothing as flat as possible to minimise thickness
Measure packed bags to confirm postal classification
From ProcuraPack

Postage-efficient paper bags

Paper bags sized for Royal Mail rates from ProcuraPack.

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Frequently asked questions

If total dimensions are under 353x250x25mm and weight under 750g, yes.

353x250x25mm, up to 750g.

Usually yes, due to lower weight.

Measure samples to know typical dimensions. Spot-check regularly.

Some offer flat-package rates. Check with your carrier.

Part of our guide

Product Guide: Paper Mailing Bags

Expert guides on paper mailing bags for sustainable, professional shipping.

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