Six Months to use non-barcoded stamps

Many removals and storage companies still send quotes and follow up documents to customers in the post even after sending out emails. However, if you do have in your possession any non-barcoded everyday stamps – those with the Queen’s profile on – you have only six months left to use them up before they become worthless on 31 January 2023.

However, you can swap these stamps for barcoded versions for free through using the Royal Mail’s scheme. In February 2022, the Royal Mail announced that it will scrap ‘definitive stamps’, to many known as everyday’ stamps featuring the profile of the Queen against a plain background from 31 January 2023.  From this date you can only use barcoded stamps with the Queen’s profile on, or non-barcoded Christmas or special collection stamps that are issued by the Royal Mail.

If post is sent with non barcoded stamps from the 1^st February 2023, the Royal Mail will treat the post as having insufficient postage.  This means that the person receiving the post may incur a surcharge, for removals quotes, this is not a great way to get a potential customer to book their removal with you. According to the Royal Mail website, sending a letter or large letter currently incurs a £2 fee where no postage has been paid at all.

Special issue stamps with pictures and images on and Christmas stamps can continue to be valid beyond January 2023 deadline. If you want more information and guidance  on which stamps you can exchange, see Royal Mail’s FAQs about definitive stamps.

Bar-coded stamps Information – https://www.royalmail.com/sending/barcoded-stamps