Royal Mail Tracked 48

Royal Mail Tracked 48 is a UK parcel delivery option that comes with step-by-step tracking and delivery confirmation. While the goal is delivery within two to three working days, it isn’t guaranteed. You’ll receive tracking updates, and in many cases, a photo when your parcel arrives.

What’s included with Tracked 48?

• Tracking updates from dispatch to delivery via Royal Mail or platforms like Ship24
• A delivery scan or photo, when left in a safe place
• Email or SMS notification options (when bought online)
• Compensation cover up to £150 for loss or damage
• Optional signature on delivery and delivery change options like neighbour delivery or safe place

Size, weight and price limits

You can send items up to 20 kg. For large letters, the max is 1 kg with dimensions up to 35.3 x 25 x 2.5 cm.

Prices start at £2.70 online or about £2.80 at a branch for a large letter. Small parcels cost from £3.45 when sent online and up to £4.05 in‑branch. Whether you buy online or pick up in a branch changes the price slightly—dropping off at a branch after online purchase may add about 20p.

How to send a parcel with Tracked 48

1. Check size and weight limits using Royal Mail’s guidelines
2. Package your item securely
3. Choose postage online or at a branch, online purchases may include collected‑from‑home for a small extra fee
4. Attach the label and drop off at a Royal Mail postbox or branch

How to track your parcel

Once you’ve booked the service, use the tracking number on your label to check status updates on the Royal Mail site or Ship24. You’ll see stages like “posted,” “in transit,” and “delivered.”

Delivery time expectations

Royal Mail aims for delivery in 2 to 3 working days (Saturdays count but not Sundays or public holidays). Note this remains an aim, not a guarantee.

Compensation and how to claim

Tracked 48 includes basic compensation cover up to £150 if your parcel is lost or damaged during transit. It does not cover delays.

If your parcel is missing and delivery hasn't happened 10 working days after the due date, you may claim through Royal Mail’s claims centre. Claims must be made within three months of posting for loss or up to 80 days for damage claims.

Common issues reported

Some users report delays of five days or more, or items marked as late. In those cases, compensation for Tracked 48 may not be available unless the parcel is officially lost or damaged.

Royal Mail’s recent performance has also drawn criticism: it failed several delivery quality targets, leading to Ofcom fines exceeding £16 million in 18 months.

When to use Tracked 48

This service suits individuals or small businesses sending UK parcels where next-day delivery isn’t essential, but tracking and delivery confirmation are. If you need guaranteed or faster delivery, consider Tracked 24 or Special Delivery.

Tracked 48 vs Tracked 24

Tracked 24 aims for next working day delivery and includes the same tracking features and up to £150 cover, but it costs more and is only for domestic parcels. Both services allow label drop-off or online options, and tracked purchases online include optional SMS/email alerts and delivery photo scans.

What if you need guaranteed delivery?

Consider Royal Mail Special Delivery Guaranteed. This service is delivered by either 9 am or 1 pm next working day and includes compensation up to £50–£750 plus optional higher-value cover up to £2,500 or more.

FAQs

Is Tracked 48 guaranteed?

No. Delivery is based on operational goals only. Claims for delay are not available under this service.

How much does compensation cover?

You’re covered up to £150 for loss or damage. Additional cover isn't available for this service.

Do I get a signature on delivery?

No, unless you add a signature on delivery at the time of booking.

What if my parcel is delayed but not lost?

Tracked 48 does not include delay compensation. If the service is slow, you can still monitor the status, but no refund is offered purely for late arrival.

When is compensation refunded?

Once you’ve submitted a successful claim, Royal Mail sends a cheque or payment within 30 calendar days or up to 90 days for international items—not covered here—based on their claim policy.