Second class post in the UK typically takes about 2 to 3 working days for delivery, including Saturdays. However, from late July 2025, Royal Mail has introduced changes where second class post will be delivered on alternate weekdays (Monday to Friday) and will no longer be delivered on Saturdays. The target for delivery remains within three working days , but the service will operate five days a week instead of six, which may affect delivery times slightly. Additionally, there is a regulatory target that 95% of second-class mail should be delivered within three days, with a new enforceable backstop ensuring 99% of mail is delivered no more than two days late.
In summary:
- Usual delivery time: 2-3 working days, including Saturdays.
- From July 2025: Delivered on alternate weekdays, no Saturday delivery.
- Delivery target: 95% within 3 working days.
- Some delays possible due to reduction in delivery days and staggered schedules.
This means that second class post usually takes up to three working days but may sometimes take longer depending on the area and schedule changes in 2025.
