Understanding the Royal Mail PiP Dimensions

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When sending letters and parcels via Royal Mail, understanding their PiP (Pricing in Proportion) size categories and weight limits is essential to avoid unexpected costs or delays in the items you ship. Choosing the right packaging and ensuring your parcels meet the required dimensions can save both time and money.

We understand that Royal Mail's size information can be hard to grasp. That's why almost all of our products on offer will highlight what category the packaging supply falls under so you know exactly what size your shipment is.

In this blog, we’ll break down Royal Mail’s parcel dimensions, provide tips on selecting the right packaging, and highlight how franking machines (available through our partner site, Mailcoms) can streamline your mailing process.

Royal Mail PiP Boxes

Royal Mail PiP Categories Explained

Royal Mail divides items into several PiP categories based on size and weight. Here’s a quick overview:

Letter

Large Letter

Small Parcel

Medium Parcel

Postal Tubes

  • Maximum dimensions: 90cm in length, with a combined length and diameter not exceeding 104cm.
  • Maximum weight: 2kg.
  • Suitable for: Posters, blueprints, and other rolled documents or materials.
  • Click here to view our range of Postal Tubes.

Weight Limits & Pricing Implications

Royal Mail’s pricing is based on both the size and weight of the item being sent. Oversized or heavier parcels fall into higher price brackets. Ensuring your mail stays within the specified dimensions and weight categories helps avoid unnecessary charges. A good measure to implement is use a digital postal scale and measuring tape to double-check your parcels before sending.

Choosing the Right Packaging for Your Parcel

Selecting the correct packaging ensures your mail meets Royal Mail’s requirements while keeping items secure:

  • For Letters & Large Letters: Use flat, sturdy envelopes to protect documents.
  • For Parcels: Choose strong boxes with protective padding like bubble wrap or Hivewrap.
  • For Postal Tubes: Ensure the tube is securely capped and won’t exceed Royal Mail’s maximum length and depth.

How Franking Machines Simplify Your Mailing

Parcelsend Essential Franking Machine

Franking machines, such as those from Mailcoms, are invaluable for businesses looking to streamline their mailing process. By using a franking machine businesses will always ensure that the correct postage is applied. Franking machines can also be used to send a variety of mail of all shapes and sizes, from letters and large letters to small and medium parcels, ensuring your mail is compliant with all of Royal Mail’s regulations. Some of the benefits of using a franking machine include:

  • Accurate Postage: Automatically calculate the correct postage based on size and weight.
  • Cost Savings: Benefit from discounted Royal Mail rates for franked mail.
  • Efficiency: Prepare your mail quickly without needing to queue at the post office.

Conclusion

Understanding Royal Mail’s parcel dimensions is key to efficient and cost-effective shipping. Whether you’re sending a letter, large letter, parcel, or postal tube, using the right packaging and tools like franking machines can save you time and money. Click here to see Royal Mail's site about size and weight guide.

At Parcelsend UK, we also offer a range of high-quality packaging supplies to meet Royal Mail’s requirements, helping you make the best decision for your brand and customers. Contact us today to learn more about our packaging solutions and find the best option for your business.