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February 20, 2023

Update for important changes when sending BFPO mail

In January 2023, BFPO informed customers of important changes when sending mail and parcels via the BFPO system to EU member states. In this message we highlighted the importance that all BFPO mail should always be properly and clearly addressed, using a printed label or written in block capitals showing both sender name & address as well as recipient name & address. We also highlighted that all BFPO mail must always have a fully completed custom declaration attached to your small packet or parcel.

Additionally, we also introduced the requirement to include Harmonised System codes (HS codes) as part of the customs declaration process. Commercial suppliers should already be including HS codes as part of their customs declarations, however, there remains uncertainty that mandatory inclusion of these codes for private items posted over a Post Office counter will be introduced. BFPO will update private customers once this position becomes clear and in the interim customers can access guidance on sending mail overseas, how to complete customs declarations, making best use of gift allowance and how to access HS codes by clicking the link below:

https://personal.help.royalmail.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/106?

It’s important to consider that these changes will apply to all UK business or private customers who send mail to EU destinations. BFPO also anticipate that these changes will be introduced more generally in other global regions in the future, as mail distribution becomes more automated and internationally aligned.

To assist BFPO customers through this transitional period, we are not making any changes to our mail acceptance process at this time, and we will continue to guide customers through this process and take a phased approach, should any change become necessary.