Royal Mail is modernising its iconic red post boxes with a practical, customer-friendly upgrade. 3,500 solar-powered post boxes are being rolled out across the UK, designed to accept parcels as large as a shoebox — making it easier than ever to post packages without a trip to the Post Office.
What's Changing?
For nearly two centuries, Royal Mail's post boxes have been a staple of British streets — but their size has always limited what could be posted. The new solar-powered versions feature wider parcel slots, allowing medium-sized items to be dropped in directly. This is a meaningful change for small businesses and online sellers, particularly during busy periods like Christmas or peak e-commerce seasons.
Rollout Timeline and Locations
The rollout began in August 2025, following a successful pilot earlier in the year. Royal Mail plans to install 3,500 upgraded post boxes across the UK over the coming months. Cities where the new boxes are already available include:
- Edinburgh
- Manchester
- Nottingham
- Sheffield
- Sunderland
More locations are expected to follow soon, making convenient parcel posting accessible to customers nationwide.
Why It Matters for Your Packaging Choices
With more flexibility in how and where you can post parcels, choosing the right packaging becomes even more important. Our boxes are designed to be:
- Sturdy and secure — protecting your items throughout transit
- Sized for convenience — many of our boxes fit within Royal Mail's new parcel dimensions
- Eco-friendly — made from recyclable materials to support sustainable shipping
Cardboard Boxes
Browse our full range of cardboard boxes — sized and built for convenient, secure posting with Royal Mail's upgraded network.
Shop Cardboard BoxesPopular Options for Easy Posting
- Single Wall Boxes — lightweight and cost-effective for everyday shipping
- Crash Lock Boxes — quick to assemble, ideal for efficient packing and secure closure
- Book Wrap Mailers — adjustable depth and strong protection, suitable for far more than just books
Final Thoughts
Royal Mail's upgrade is a welcome step forward for anyone who relies on parcel delivery. With the right packaging, you can take full advantage of this new convenience — shipping smarter, safer, and more sustainably.
Not sure which box size is right for your products? Use our size guide to find the perfect fit.
