Royal Mail: 100 days left to use stamps without a barcode

Image source, PA Media

Royal Mail wants people to use up stamps that don't have a barcode by January 31st because they will no longer be valid for postage.

"everyday" stamps featuring the late Queen's profile are affected by the deadline.

The introduction of barcodes made deliveries more efficient and improved security.

After the deadline, customers will be able to use themed stamps.

Anyone who can't use older everyday stamps by 31 January will be able to swap them for newer barcodes for free.

The change of monarch doesn't affect Royal Mail's advice. Further information on the launch of stamps featuring King Charles will be made after consultation with the Royal Household.

• Regular 1st and 2nd Class "everyday" stamps that feature the profile of Her Late Queen Elizabeth but no unique barcode will no longer be valid from 31 January
• Non-barcoded Christmas and other special stamps with pictures on continue to be valid for postage and should not be submitted for swap out
• Stamps that have already been used for postage will not be accepted on the swap out scheme.

Royal Mail introduced barcoded stamps in February.

People will be able to watch videos, find out information and send birthday messages to each other through the barcodes which can be scanned with the Royal Mail app.

The analysts at Mintel said that it was indicative of how widespread smartphone ownership had become as well as people's familiarity withQR codes, particularly during the Pandemic.

The postal service reminded people to use their non-barcoded stamps by the deadline.

Royal Mail has placed advertisements on radio and on social media in order to get people to use the stamps.