Track a Royal Mail package
| Carrier | Royal Mail (Royal Mail Tracked, RM) |
|---|---|
| Type | Postal service — United Kingdom |
| Number format | Royal Mail tracked items use the UPU S10 format: 2 letters, 9 digits, and a 2-letter country code, typically ending in GB, e.g. RB123456785GB. Tracked 24/48 services also use this 13-character format. |
| Example | RB123456785GB |
| Official page | Royal Mail tracking |
| Support | +44 345 774 0740 |
Royal Mail is the UK's national postal carrier, delivering letters and parcels across Britain and worldwide. Only Tracked, Signed For, and Special Delivery items carry trackable S10 numbers; standard 1st and 2nd Class mail is not trackable.
How to track Royal Mail
- Copy the Royal Mail reference (2 letters, 9 digits, GB) from your dispatch email or receipt.
- Paste it into the tracker at the top of this page and press Track — we auto-detect that it's Royal Mail.
- Review the acceptance, in-transit, and delivery scans returned from Royal Mail.
- For Signed For items, check the captured signature or safeplace photo on the Royal Mail site if needed.
💡 Good to know
- Only Tracked, Signed, and Special Delivery items update fully — a standard stamped letter won't have live tracking.
- Royal Mail Tracked 24/48 often shows limited scans until the "out for delivery" or "delivered" update.
- Inbound international items handed over by another post may only start scanning once they reach the UK.
Royal Mail tracking FAQ
How long does Royal Mail take?
Tracked 24 aims for next working day and Tracked 48 for two to three working days; 1st Class is usually next day and 2nd Class two to three days.
Why does my Royal Mail tracking only show 'delivered'?
Some Tracked services scan minimally in transit and only post a clear update at out-for-delivery and delivery.
Can I track a standard letter with Royal Mail?
No — standard 1st and 2nd Class mail is not tracked. You need a Tracked, Signed For, or Special Delivery service.
What happens if I miss a Royal Mail delivery?
The postie leaves a "Something for you" card; you can arrange redelivery online or collect from your local delivery office.
Tracking stuck or not updating?
Carrier scans can pause for a day or two in transit or customs without anything being wrong. See why a package stops moving, or paste your number above to refresh the latest events.
trackpackage.live is an independent tool and is not affiliated with Royal Mail. Tracking detail and timing are provided by the carrier and can change.