Royal Mail Enhances Services Ahead of New US Customs Rules

Royal Mail has introduced significant updates to its parcel delivery services, effective immediately. This move aims to facilitate the sending of goods to the United States ahead of new customs requirements set to take effect on August 29, 2023. As a result, Royal Mail becomes the first international postal operator to offer its new postal delivery duties paid (PDDP) services, providing a streamlined process for customers.

The recent executive order from the US government outlines that goods valued at $800 or less will no longer qualify for exemption from import duties and taxes. The changes are expected to impact many customers, including both individual consumers and businesses.

Iain Johnson, Managing Director International at Royal Mail, expressed the company’s commitment to adapting to the new requirements swiftly. “We have been working hard with the relevant US authorities and our international partners to adapt our services in a very short timeframe,” he stated. He added that customers can send items to the US through all traditional channels, including online and at the Post Office.

With this update, Royal Mail will handle the payment of duties to the US Customs Authorities on behalf of customers, marking a significant shift from previous regulations where items under $800 entered the US duty-free.

Innovative Postbox Solutions for Customers

Alongside the PDDP service, Royal Mail has announced the rollout of 3,500 solar-powered postboxes featuring a digitally activated drop-down drawer. This innovation allows customers to send parcels as large as a shoebox, significantly expanding the capabilities of traditional postboxes.

The new postboxes will be installed across the UK, with major cities including Edinburgh, Manchester, Nottingham, Sheffield, and Sunderland set to benefit from this enhancement. The design has already been trialled in Hertfordshire and Cambridgeshire earlier this year, with positive feedback leading to the nationwide deployment.

To utilize the new postboxes, customers can scan a barcode via the Royal Mail app, opening the drawer specifically designed for larger parcels. For those sending smaller items, the postboxes still feature a separate slot for letters. The app also provides users with proof of posting and parcel tracking.

Jack Clarkson, Managing Director of Out of Home and Commercial Excellence at Royal Mail, highlighted the growing trend in online shopping. “We are all sending and returning more parcels than ever before,” he said. “This trend will only continue as online shopping shows no signs of slowing, particularly with the boom of second-hand marketplaces.”

With approximately 115,000 postboxes located within half a mile of 98% of UK addresses, Royal Mail continues to offer a robust and accessible network for parcel drop-off, reflecting its dedication to adapting to customer needs in an evolving market.