Service Bulletin
Welcome to our international incident bulletin; a round up of any issues which may be affecting mail services to and from countries around the world.
We keep this information as up-to-date as possible, with information supplied to Reliance by the various foreign national postal authorities.
SERVICE UPDATE
Items are leaving the UK on time but we are experiencing significant delays to a number of EU countries as a result of both new customs processes and ongoing Covid-19 measures. Our service to other destinations is operating normally. We are working with our airline and postal/courier partners to maintain services across the globe, however delays should be expected as a result of Covid-19 measures. The number of countries we can access is changing daily.
Customers now need to complete and attach a customs declaration (CN22 or CN23) when sending goods to all destinations abroad. This will be carried out by Reliance on behalf of the customer. Otherwise items may be delayed or returned.
For International mail packets that do not contain printed matter, electronic customs data is mandatory and items without data will be delayed and not processed.
(Source: Royal Mail Group – As we are using multiple carriers across the network, we have discovered similar information is provided through other postal networks with their own content difference)
An update has been provided on Monday 19th April for: Slovenia.
We strongly advise not to send items to destinations listed as ‘On suspension’
Start date: 18 March 2020
Latest Update: 29 April 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 29 April 2020
Mail despatches to Albania resume on Friday 1 May 2020, and we’ll prioritise the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Update: 24 April 2020
New transport links to Albania have proven unstable, so we're currently not shipping letters and parcels. Items posted will be held and you will experience significant delays.
Update: 8 April 2020
Mail despatches to Albania have resumed, and we’re prioritising the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Update: 23 March 2020
We're currently not despatching items to Albania as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you will experience significant delays.
Original Incident: 18 March 2020
Albania has put special quarantine measures in place against Coronavirus. As a result, Posta Shqiptare may not be able to deliver mail to specifications. Delays to mail services can be expected.
Start date: 10 December 2020
Latest Update:
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
With the last posting date of 10 December for destinations in the Caribbean, air transport links are extremely limited resulting in the cancelling of our planned flights. As a result, we're now sending mail and parcels bound for Anguilla by ship, so there's a risk some items may not arrive before Christmas.
Start date: 22 February 2021
Latest Update: 9 March 2021
End date: Estimated: 8 March
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 9 March 2021
Antigua Post Office has updated that it has reopened for normal operations with effect from 8 March 2021, after the 14-day quarantine period expired. Delays may still be observed in the short-term, while work to clear any backlog from the temporary closure takes place.
Original Incident: 22 February 2021
Antigua Post Office has advised its operation has been closed temporarily by the Ministry of Health for a period of 14 days with effect from 22 February, owing to COVID exposure. As a result, delays can be expected until the operation resumes, this is expected to be on the 8 March, but is subject to review.
Start date: 14 April 2020
Latest Update:
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Argentina has put special quarantine measures in place against Coronavirus. As a result, Correo Argentino may not be able to deliver mail to specifications, with signatures on delivery suspended in order to prevent spread of the infection. Delays to mail services can be expected.
Start date: 19 March 2020
Latest Update: 28 April 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 28 April 2020
Mail despatches to Armenia have resumed, and we’re prioritising the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Original Incident: 19 March 2020
We're currently not sending items to Armenia as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you will experience significant delays.
Start date: 6 February 2018
Latest update: 6 April 2021
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Runway repair work
Implication: Disruption to flights to the Ascension Islands and St Helena
Update: 6 April 2021
The flight on 26 March departed as planned, the next flight is due to close on 15 April 2021.
Update: 4 March 2021
Last flight closed Thursday 11th Feb 21 departed as planned. The next flights are planned to close on 5 and 26 March 21.
Update: 5 February 2021
The flight on 27 January departed as planned. The next flight is due to close on Thursday 11 February 2021.
Update: 7 January 2021
The last flight on the 9 December 2020 closed and departed as planned. The next flight is planned to close on Wednesday 27 January 2021.
Update: 17 November
The last flight on the 23 October closed and departed as planned. The next flight is planned to close on Wednesday 9 December. Important: This is the last flight to arrive before Christmas.
Update: 1 October 2020
The flight on 11 September left as planned. The next flights are due to close on Friday 2 October and Friday 23 October 2020.
Update: 2 September 2020
Air transportation to Ascension Island & St Helena is greatly reduced, and unfortunately, given the remoteness of the islands there is no viable alternative transport which would arrive quicker. Customers can continue to send mail, but there will be significant delays in the delivery of all products, the next available flight is due to close on Friday 11 September 2020. Please note that mail to the Falkland Island is not affected.
Update: 10 June 2020
The flight closing on 29 May departed as planned, the next flight has changed and will now close on Wednesday 17 June. A later flight is scheduled to close on 14 July.
Update: 12 May 2020
The flight on 7 May 2020 departed on schedule. The next flights are due to close on Friday 29 May 2020 and Friday 19 June 2020.
Update: 29 April 2020
The next flight is scheduled to close on Thursday 7 May 2020.
Update: 9 April 2020
The flight on 27 March despatched on schedule, the next flight due 17 April has been cancelled. We'll update this page when a date is known for the next available flight.
Update: 4 March 2020
The next flights are scheduled to close on Friday 6 March, Friday 27 March and Friday 17 April 2020.
Original Incident: 6 February 2018
Air transportation to Ascension Island & St Helena is greatly reduced due to essential runway repairs. Unfortunately, given the location of the islands, there isn't a viable alternative to air transport. Customers can continue to send mail, but there'll be significant delays in the delivery of all products.
Please note: Mail shipment to the Falkland Islands is not affected.
Incident 1
Start date: 22 March 2021
Latest Update: 24 March 2021
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Severe Weather - Flooding
Update: 24 March 2021
Aus Post has updated that extreme weather conditions continue to affect postal services in the states of New South Wales and Queensland. These weather conditions are causing difficulties in the transportation of mail and parcels via the air and road networks, resulting in delivery delays in both states. Local road closures, safety measures and access issues are also affecting deliveries in flood-affected areas, with limited delivery to the following postcodes
New South Wales - 2126, 2869, 2877, 2775, 2154, 2839, 2826, 2822, 2829, 2795, 2840, 2818, 2828, 2825, 2750, 2400, 2453, 2751, 2752, 2753, 2756 and 2578.
Queensland - 4213, 4228, 4220, 4223, 4213, 4228, 4220, 4223, 4215, 4217, 4218, 4226, 4270, 4272, 4275, 4210, 4211, 4209, 4212, 4214, 4216, 4470, 4370, 4371, 4372, 4373, 4128, 4270, 4272, 4275, 4500 and 4503.
A number of Post Offices in the affected areas are closed. These are on top of any COVID-19 restrictions.
Original Incident: 22 March 2021
Aus Post has advised that extreme weather conditions in New South Wales and Southern Queensland have resulted in extensive flooding. The conditions ares expected to worsen over the next few days, and may ease by Wednesday 24 March, but ongoing delays can be expected. Australia Post currently has limited delivery to the following postcodes: 2424, 2426, 2427, 4229, 2430, 2440, 2441, 2756 & 2750, 2751 and 2578 (NSW). 4114, & 4207 (QLD) with many Post Offices closed within the affected areas.
Incident 2
Start date: 12 March 2020
Latest Update: 19 June 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 19 June 2020
There are no delays to letters and parcels being despatched to Australia from the UK. During April and early May, we had less regular access to Australia, but this has now stabilised and we have regular freight flights via en-route transit points. This means mail takes a little longer than usual, but is a reliable shipment route.
Mail to Australia is currently only entering via Sydney, as opposed to multiple gateways normally used to get items closer to their final destination. A huge reduction in airline capacity means this is not possible at the moment. Also, mail volumes into Australia, like many countries, is significantly higher than usual.
As a result, there are considerable delays in items passing through the Sydney gateway and into Australia Post's domestic network, as well as extended delivery times once in country. For more information, please visit the Australia Post website.
Update: 2 June 2020
Australia Post are currently experiencing higher than Christmas peak volumes of mail. There is currently no air backlogs, however we are currently only shipping into Sydney which means onward transport is required for mail to reach destination causing delays. There are also Coronavirus 'hot-spots' around Australia which may cause further delays.
Update: 22 April 2020
The measures implemented in Australia to help prevent the spread of Covid-19 are also affecting delivery standards. As a result, delays to letter and parcel deliveries may be apparent.
Original Incident: 12 March 2020
Australian Post has informed us that it has suspended signature on delivery for inbound items effective immediately. Delivery will be conducted via limited face-to-face methods to reduce the risk of the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) by avoiding human contact.
Start date: 16 March 2020
Latest Update: 29 December 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 29 December 2020
Royal Mail and Parcelforce services to Europe have been reopened and are now fully operational. For items posted today, customers should expect a delay up to 2 working days for some countries.
Update: 22 December 2020
Following the announcement from the French government to restrict air, road, ferry and train travel from the UK to France from midnight on December 20 for a period of 48 hours, Royal Mail has temporarily suspended all mail services to Austria. This is a fast-moving situation and we're monitoring things on an hourly basis. We're working to keep as many international mail services running as possible given the current restrictions. Items already in the system will be processed as normal and prepared for dispatch. These items will be held securely until we're able to get them to their relevant destinations. We're keeping the situation under close and constant review.
Original Incident: 16 March 2020
The Austrian government has extended measures aimed at slowing the spread of Coronavirus. This means letters and parcels are likely to be delayed, with varying levels of visibility of tracking events and capture of signatures.
Start date: 23 April 2020
Latest Update: 11 September 2020
End date: 1 July 2020
Incident: Coronavirus
Update 11 September 2020
Some mail has been held at the transit point and returned to the UK. They will be reprocessed and despatched via our alternative carrier. As a result, some mail may experience delays.
Update: 30 June 2020
Mail despatches to Azerbaijan will resume on Wednesday 1 July 2020, and we’ll prioritise the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Original Incident: 23 April 2020
We're currently not despatching items to Azerbaijan as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you will experience significant delays.
Start date: 30 April 2020
Latest Update: 7 May 2020
End date: 10 May 2020
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 7 May 2020
Mail despatches to the Bahamas resume on Sunday 10 May 2020, and we’ll prioritise the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Original Incident
We're currently not sending items to the Bahamas as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you will experience significant delays.
Start date: 27 March 2020
Latest Update: 19 February 2021
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 19 February 2021
Barbados Postal Service have informed us that the Government of Barbados has extended the national pause until 28 February 2021. Furthermore, a weekend curfew will be imposed with effect from 7pm on Friday 19 February until 6am on Monday 22 February 2021. As a result, some airlines have reduced their services and/or cancelled flights. This reduced transportation capacity
may lead to delays in both inbound and outbound mail (letter-post, parcel-post and EMS items). Service delivery standards cannot be guaranteed, and the Force Majeure previously declared remains in place.
Update: 2 February 2021
Barbados Post has advised, due to a recent spike of COVID-19 infections, Barbados has been placed on a national pause from 3 to 17 February 2021. As a result, some flights have been reduced or cancelled and reduced transportation capacity may lead to delays in both inbound and outbound mail. Service delivery standards, therefore, cannot be guaranteed with force majeure previously declared remaining in place.
Update: 7 January 2021
Barbados Post has advised that, due to the rise of COVID-19 infections, the Government of Barbados has imposed a night curfew from 31 December 2020 until 14 January 2021 between the hours of 21.00 and 05.00.
As result, service delivery standards are affected for all mail types and force majeure will remain in place until the situation returns to normal.
We will provide further update when more detail becomes available from the Post.
Update: 12 May 2020
Mail despatches to the Barbados resume on Saturday 16 May 2020, and we’ll prioritise the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Update: 24 April 2020
New transport links to Barbados have proven unstable, so we're currently not shipping letters and parcels. Items posted will be held and you will experience significant delays.
Update: 17 April 2020
Mail despatches to Barbados have resumed, and we’re prioritising the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Original Incident: 27 March 2020
We're currently not sending items to Barbados as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you will experience significant delays.
Start date: 24 March 2020
Latest Update: 12 February 2021
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 12 February 2021
Belarus Post has advised, inbound international items of all mail types are now being processed and delivered as normal while subject to any local restrictions and limited air availability.
Original Incident: 24 March 2020
Belarus has put special measures in place from 24 March to limit the spread of Coronavirus. Belpocha need to comply with these measures and may have reduced staff numbers so not able to deliver all mail to specifications. Signature on delivery is suspended and delays to mail services can be expected.
Start date: 10 December 2020
Latest Update:
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
With the last posting date of 10 December for destinations in the Caribbean, air transport links are extremely limited resulting in the cancelling of our planned flights. As a result, we're now sending mail and parcels bound for Belize by ship, so there's a risk some items may not arrive before Christmas.
Start date: 16 March 2020
Latest Update: 30 March 2021
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 30 March 2021
Bpost has updated, due to the impact of the third wave of the Coronavirus pandemic, the government has announced a new lockdown from 26 March until at least 25 April 2021. Bpost will continue with all services and the delivery of all mail types, however, the lockdown measures in place across Belgium will prevent full compliance with delivery times and collection of the addressee’s signature, and may result in processing and delivery delays. Items requiring a signature on delivery will, until further notice, be delivered with the postal worker’s signature in place of the customer’s (in the customer’s presence).
Update: 29 December 2020
Royal Mail and Parcelforce services to Europe have been reopened and are now fully operational. For items posted today, customers should expect a delay up to 2 working days for some countries.
Update: 22 December 2020
Following the announcement from the French government to restrict air, road, ferry and train travel from the UK to France from midnight on December 20 for a period of 48 hours, Royal Mail has temporarily suspended all mail services to Belgium. This is a fast-moving situation and we're monitoring things on an hourly basis. We're working to keep as many international mail services running as possible given the current restrictions. Items already in the system will be processed as normal and prepared for dispatch. These items will be held securely until we're able to get them to their relevant destinations. We're keeping the situation under close and constant review.
Update: 12 November 2020
Bpost has advised that due to a second wave of COVID-19, the Belgian Government has announced a new lockdown to run from 2 November until 13 December 2020 at the earliest. BPost will continue to process and deliver items in compliance with the lockdown measures, which are likely to result in processing and delivery delays for all mail types throughout the country. Items requiring a signature on delivery will, until further notice, be delivered with the delivery person signing on behalf of the customer while in their presence.
Original Incident: 16 March 2020
Belgium has put special measures in place from Monday 16 March, to limit the spread of Coronavirus. Bpost need to comply with these measures and may have reduced staff numbers so not able to deliver all mail to specifications. Signature on delivery is suspended and delays to mail services can be expected.
Start date: 24 March 2020
Latest Update: 31 March 2021
End date: 10 May 2020
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 31 March 2021
Bermuda Post has informed us that staff at Bermuda’s Office of Exchange have been asked to self-quarantine until advised by their local health authority to return to work. This will have a direct impact on postal operations as Bermuda Post is not able to collect, transport, process and deliver international mail. Force Majeure is declared, with significant delays to be expected until further notice.
Update: 7 May 2020
Mail despatches to Bermuda resume on Sunday 10 May 2020, and we’ll prioritise the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Update: 24 April 2020
New transport links to Bermuda have proven unstable, so we're currently not shipping letters and parcels. Items posted will be held and you will experience significant delays.
Update 17 April 2020
Mail despatches to Bermuda have resumed, and we’re prioritising the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Original Incident: 24 March 2020
We're currently not sending items to Bermuda as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you will experience significant delays.
Start date: 24 March 2020
Latest Update: 29 September 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 29 September
Bhutan Post have advised the lockdown in high risk areas has been lifted from 26 September 2020. Normal service has resumed, and Bhutan Post is able to receive and deliver domestic and international mail throughout the country. As flight availability is still restricted, items may take longer to reach Bhutan than normal.
Update: 18 September 2020
Bhutan Post has advised the government has partially lifted the national lockdown apart from a few high-risk areas. As a result, Bhutan Post is now able to receive, dispatch and deliver domestic and international mail, except in the high-risk areas where movement is still restricted.
It may be some time before the situation returns to normal with delays due to local restrictions against COVID-19.
Original Incident 24 March 2020
Bhutan has put special measures in place from 24 March, to limit the spread of Coronavirus. Bhutan Postal need to comply with these measures and may have reduced staff numbers so not able to deliver all mail to specifications. Signature on delivery is suspended and delays to mail services can be expected.
Start date: 14 September 2020
Latest Update: 12 December 2020
End date: 13 December 2020
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: Saturday 12 December 2020
Mail despatches to Bolivia will resume on Sunday 13 December 2020, and we’ll prioritise the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Original incident
We're currently not sending items to Bolivia as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you will experience significant delays.
Start date: 23 March 2020
Latest Update: 29 April 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 29 April 2020
Mail despatches to Bosnia-Herzegovina resume on Friday 1 May 2020, and we’ll prioritise the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Update: 24 April 2020
New transport links to Bosnia-Herzegovina have proven unstable, so we're currently not shipping letters and parcels. Items posted will be held and you will experience significant delays.
Update: 8 April 2020
Mail despatches to Bosnia-Herzegovina have resumed, and we’re prioritising the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Original Incident: 23 March 2020
We're currently not sending items to Bosnia-Herzegovina as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you will experience significant delays.
Start date: 15 April 2020
Latest Update: 22 July 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 22 July 2020
Mail despatches to Botswana will resume on Thursday 23 July 2020, and we’ll prioritise the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Original Incident: 15 April 2020
We're currently not sending items to Botswana as there are no available transport links and all postal operations in-country have been suspended due to Coronavirus restrictions. Items posted to and from Botswana will be held and you will experience significant delays.
Start date: 16 March 2020
Latest Update: 26 March 2021
End date: Estimated: 4 April 2021
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 26 March 2021
Due to the critical COVID-19 situation in Brazil, the cities of São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro and their respective metropolitan regions, have decreed an emergency 10-day holiday, from 26 March to 4 April 2021.
Postcode areas impacted are:
São Paulo: 01000-000 to 05999-999 and 08000-000 to 08499-999.
Rio de Janeiro and metropolitan region: 20000-000 to 23799-999 and 24000-000 to 24399-999
As a result, delays can be expected and Brazilian Post cannot guarantee service delivery standards on all mail types in the above-mentioned postcodes.
Update: 22 March 2021
Correos Brazil has informed that owing to the critical COVID-19 situation in Brazil, the city of São Paulo has decreed an emergency 10-day holiday, from 26 March to 4 April 2021. Postcode areas impacted are: 01000-000 to 05999-999 and 08000-000 to 08499-999. As a result, delays can be expected, and Correos Brazil is unable to guarantee service delivery standards on all mail types in the above mentioned postcodes.
Update: 19 December 2020
Correos Brazil will end the force majeure bought in to combat COVID-19 on the 31 December, with normal service resuming on the 1 January 2021. However, safety measures remain in place, so no signatures will be taken on delivery.
Original Incident: 16 March 2020
Brazil has put special measures in place from Monday 16 March, to limit the spread of Coronavirus. Correios need to comply and is also likely to have a reduced workforce available, and not be able to deliver all mail to specifications. Signature on delivery is suspended and delays to mail services can be expected.
British Virgin Islands (Tortola)
Start date: 17 March 2020
Latest Update: 10 December 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 10 December 2020
With the last posting date of 10 December for destinations in the Caribbean, air transport links are extremely limited resulting in the cancelling of our planned flights. As a result, we're now sending mail and parcels bound for British Virgin Islands (Tortola) by ship, so there's a risk some items may not arrive before Christmas.
Update: 7 May 2020
Mail despatches to British Virgin Islands will resume on Sunday 10 May 2020, and we’ll prioritise the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Original incident:
We're currently not sending items to the British Virgin Islands as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you will experience significant delays.
Start date: 16 March 2020
Latest Update:
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Bulgaria has put special measures in place from Monday 16 March, to limit the spread of Coronavirus. Bulgarian Post need to comply with these measures and may have reduced staff numbers so not able to deliver all mail to specifications. Signature on delivery is suspended and delays to mail services can be expected.
Start date: 2 June 2020
Latest Update:
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Burkina Faso has put special quarantine measures in place against Coronavirus. As a result, Burkina Faso Postal Services may not be able to deliver mail to specifications, with signatures on delivery suspended in order to prevent spread of the infection. Delays to mail services can be expected.
Incident
Start date: 16 March 2020
Latest Update: 26 February 2021
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 26 February 2021
Canada Post has updated, that following a period of mandatory quarantine and on-site testing by local public health authorities, operations at Gateway East Mail Processing Centre in Toronto have now resumed the three-shift daily schedule. While operations have resumed, delays in the processing of mail items are still to be expected as Canada Post continues with contingency plans to deal with higher than normal volumes, and to operate with restrictions since the start of the pandemic in 2020.
Udpate: 27 January 2021
Canada Post has advised us that a number of cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed within one of its mail processing hubs, and as result has temporarily closed it to minimise the spread of virus. The main mail hub, continues to operate with a reduced workforce. As further staff shortages are expected, disruption to mail services are to be expected.
Update: 22 December 2020
We've secured new air access to Canada, so are processing and despatching all mail types as normal.
Update: 21 December 2020
Canada has cancelled flights to and from the UK. It's unclear how long these disruptions will remain in place, we'll update this site as soon as we've more information.
Update: 22 September 2020
Canada Post has updated that the special measures and changes to delivery process previously outlined remain in place. Items requiring a signature or customs payments are to be delivered to nearby Post offices with a card delivered to addresse's mail box for them to collect within 15 days before being returned to sender.
Canada Post continues to experience significant disruption to its activities due to the exceptional precautionary measures, hence Force Majeure remains in place for all mail types.
Update: 1 August 2020
CANADA DELAYS: All mail being sent from the UK to Canada is facing severe delays because of the on-going impact of COVID-19 and record volumes of traffic being received in Canada. We are processing the mail as normal in the UK, but delays are taking place once the mail reaches the Canadian border. As a result, we are unable to advise on likely delivery times.
Update: 1 July 2020
Canada Post has received unprecedented volumes of mail in the past months, particularly at their Toronto gateway. They are recruiting additional staff and working overtime to reduce the incoming volumes and accumulated backlog, and significant delays will be experienced. Some items may also be delivered out of date order. Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), responsible for customs clearance, has also experienced significant Coronavirus related staff absenteeism which added to this issue, but they are also now bringing in additional resource.
Update: 19 June 2020
There are no delays to letters and parcels leaving the UK destined for Canada. The overwhelming majority of items enter Canada via the Toronto gateway, where record levels of mail are creating significant delays at the entry point. Canada Post has been affected, as all logistics operations, with reduced staffing and social distancing requirements impacting on efficiency and processing times.
Until May, the majority of Tracked services were being delivered in under 15 days. Since w/c 11 May, already congested gateway operations have been further compounded by searches for Fentanyl (an opioid drug), required by customs authorities. This is causing additional delays.
Customers may also experience items being delivered out of sequence. This affects all mail, not just that from Royal Mail. For further updates, please visit the Canada Post website.
Update: 2 June 2020
Canada Post are experiencing extremely high volumes of mail, customers can expect significant delays as Canada Post recover. There are large backlogs in Toronto, new mail postings into Toronto can expect delays of 7-10 days above normal delivery aims.
Original Incident: 16 March 2020
Canada has put special measures in place from Monday 16 March, to limit the spread of Coronavirus. Canada Post need to comply and is also likely to have a reduced workforce available, and not be able to deliver all mail to specifications. Signature on delivery is suspended and delays to mail services can be expected.
Other service affecting issues:
Incident 2
Start date: 9 October 2017
Incident: High mail volumes entering Canada
What's the issue?
As previously advised, Canada Post have notified us that they are experiencing delays to delivery services due to high volumes of incoming mail. Delivery aims for Royal Mail services for Canada are normally 5-7 working day, however, International Standard and International Tracked & Signed are severely delayed, taking 3-4 weeks to be delivered.
What alternative is there?
If you have been posting using our Royal Mail 'Tracked and Signed service', we highly recommend you use our 'Tracked service' option which is providing much speedier processing and delivery times. Simply select the correct service and label. If you are not set up on our Tracked service, please talk to your usual Royal Mail contact who will help you with the next steps. Finally for our Customers using the Post Office to send your items, simply ask for a "Tracked service" at the counter.
A note about Customs in Canada
Whilst Customs clearing processing times are totally outside our control, it is worth remembering that Canada is one the countries with the lowest de-minimis of 20 Canadian Dollars (circa £11). This means that any goods equal or above that value will systematically go through a clearance process thus creating additional delays. Most of what our customers send is under DDU (Delivered Duty Unpaid) meaning that the recipient is responsible to pay any duty or taxes. Read more on our country guide page royalmail.com/canada, thank you.
Incident 2
Start date: 5 October 2020
Latest update: 11 November 2020
End date: 12 October 2020
Incident: Tropical Storms
Update: 11 November 2020
Cayman Island Post has updated they have restored all postal services after the passing of tropical storm Eta.
Update: 6 November 2020
Cayman Island Post has informed it has suspended all postal services from 13.00 (Eastern Standard Time) today due to the approach of tropical storm Eta, which has the potential to cause flooding in postal facilities. A further update will be provided when available.
Update: 13 October 2020
Tropical Storm Delta has now passed and all postal services with the limited air routes available during this period of COVID-19 restrictions, have now been restored.
Cayman Islands Post have advised they have suspended all postal services because of a severe weather warning triggered by the approach of Tropical Storm Delta. All international flights are suspended, and postal facilities will remain closed until the government announces it's safe to resume normal operations.
Incident 1
Start date: 17 March 2020
Latest update: 7 May 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 7 May 2020
Mail despatches to the Cayman Islands will resume on Sunday 10 May 2020, and we’ll prioritise the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Update: 24 April 2020
New transport links to the Cayman Islands have proven unstable, so we're currently not shipping letters and parcels. Items posted will be held and you will experience significant delays.
Update: 17 April 2020
Mail despatches to the Cayman Islands have resumed, and we’re prioritising the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Original Incident: 17 March 2020
We're currently not sending items to the Cayman Islands as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you will experience significant delays.
Start date: 15 April 2020
Latest Update: 22 March 2021
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 22 March 2021
Chad Post has updated that the lockdown in the city of N'Djamena has been lifted, with effect from 22 January 2021. As a result, Chad Post is once again able to process postal items sent to, or from the rest of the country.
Update: 20 January 2021
Chad Post has advised the country’s authorities reopened Chad’s air borders from Thursday 14 January. Inbound and outbound postal services have therefore returned to normal.
However, due to lockdown in the Capital city of N'Djamena, the Post is not currently able to process postal items for despatch to the rest of the Country. As result, delivery delay will still be evident.
Update: 6 January 2021
Chad Post has advised that a lockdown has been implemented in the capital, N’Djamena due to COVID-19. This lockdown is effective from 4 January 2021 for one week, and may be extended.
All passenger flights to and from N’Djamena have been suspended during the lockdown. As result, mail deliveries may be delayed, especially in N’Djamena.
Update: 22 May 2020
Mail despatches to Chad resume on Thursday 28 May 2020, and we’ll prioritise the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Original Incident: 15 April 2020
We're currently not sending items to Chad as all flights and postal operations in-country have been suspended due to Coronavirus restrictions. Items posted to and from Chad will be significantly delayed until operations resume.
Start date: 16 March 2020
Latest update: 8 April 2021
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 8 April 2021
Due to the increasing number of COVID-19 cases, the Government of Chile has implemented new restrictions and Chile’s borders have been closed. Passenger flights have been suspended with postal services in the region suspended until further notice. However, Cargo flight will still operate and postal items on these flights will be processed only if accompanied by relevant UPU documentations. Delay's are likely during this period.
Original Incident: 16 March 2020
Chile has put special measures in place from Monday 16 March, to limit the spread of Coronavirus. Coreos de Chile need to comply and is also likely to have a reduced workforce available, and not be able to deliver all mail to specifications. Signature on delivery is suspended and delays to mail services can be expected.
Incident 2
Start date: 16 July 2020
Latest update: 25 September 2020
End date: 23 September 2020
Incident: Flooding
Update: 25 September 2020
China Post has advised the flooding situation in the provinces detailed below is now over, and postal services are back to normal in these areas.
Original Incident: 16 July 2020
China Post has advised that due to heavy rainfall, the Yangtze river has caused flooding in several provinces through which it flows. This is affecting the transportation of all mail products to and from the provinces listed below, where delays are likely.
Force Majeure has been declared for:
Jiangxi, Jiangsu, Guangxi, Anhui, Hubei, Hunan, Chongqing, Sichuan, Zhejiang and Guizhou provinces.
Incident 1
Start date: 28 January 2020
Latest update: 13 February 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 13 February 2020
Items leaving the UK for China
We are maintaining our services to China. However, the emergency associated with the Coronavirus has reduced the air capacity available in the market and impacted our (and other carriers’) ability to convey all items to China for delivery in the usual manner and timescales.
Royal Mail is working hard with our partners to secure alternative air capacity so we can continue running our services to China, despite many other international postal operators having suspended their China service altogether.
We continue to collect and process items bound for China. In the event traffic received is greater than the daily available air capacity we will hold items on site in our Heathrow Hub and forward them for transit to China on the next available flight.
Delays to deliveries in China
As a result of reduced air capacity and emergency delivery procedures being taken to contain the virus on the ground in China, it is inevitable that customers sending items to China are likely to experience delays to delivery.
For international mail (letters, parcels and Express Mail Service items) China Post are contacting the recipient by phone, before delivery, to agree a delivery preference. The recipient has the option for mail to be stored temporarily at the postal outlet, made available for pick-up from the outlet, or delivered to a smart parcel locker or via other non-face-to-face methods. As result of this process, delays are to be expected for inbound international mail to these areas of China.
Impact to items leaving China for delivery in the UK
We are processing items from China for delivery in the UK as usual, though the transit of mail across and through China is affected. A number of international airlines have suspended flights to mainland China, and some border ports in neighbouring countries are also temporarily closed. China Post will temporarily store affected transit mail (air and surface) and will transport it to the destination countries when these transport options are once again available. Delays should be expected in transport and delivery during this period.
As previously advised by the World Health Organization, coronaviruses do not survive for long on objects. It is therefore safe to receive postal items from China, without risk of contracting the new coronavirus. Measures have nevertheless been implemented to ensure the safety of mail processing and postal staff across China.
Start date: 17 March 2020
Latest update: 22 April 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 22 April 2020
Colombia has put special measures in place to limit the spread of Coronavirus. Postal de Colombia need to comply and is also likely to have a reduced workforce available, and not be able to deliver all mail to specifications. Signature on delivery is suspended and delays to mail services can be expected.
Update 8 April 2020
Mail despatches to Colombia have resumed. We’re prioritising mail held during the recent period of suspension, delays may still be evident until this mail is cleared.
Original Incident: 17 March 2020
We're currently not sending items to Colombia as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you will experience significant delays.
Incident 1
Start date: 12 January 2021
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Earthquake
Croatian Post has advised that a disaster state of emergency has been declared as of 4 January 2021 after the earthquake on 29 December 2020 in the region of the cities Petrinja and Sisak, 50 km SE of Zagreb.
Special measures are in place for Post Offices within the affected area from 11 January 2021 until conditions in the areas return to normal: -
Affected Post Office areas are: - 44103 Sisak, 44104 Sisak, 44105 Sisak, 44201 Martinska Ves, 44202 Topolovac, 44203 Gušće, 44210 Sunja, 44272 Lekenik, 44273 Sela, 44250 Petrinja, 44253 Mošćenica, 44400 Glina, 44410 Vrginmost, 44415 Topusko, 44430 Hrvatska Kostajnica, 44440 Dvor, and 44450 Hrvatska Dubica.
Incident 2
Start date: 16 March 2020
Latest Update: 13 April 2021
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 13 April 2021
Croatia Post has informed us that from 5 April 2021, it has introduced a special procedure for postal items that require a signature upon delivery. If the postman/woman considers that delivery of the postal item will endanger their safety, or if the recipient refuses direct contact with the postman/woman or is self-isolating, the recipient will be asked for the number of their identity document, which will be entered in the delivery log instead of the recipient’s signature until further notice.
Update: 2 March 2021
Croatian Post has updated that special measures put in place in March 2020 to limit the spread of COVID-19 have been lifted as of Sunday 28 February 2021. Normal Postal operation have resumed, but there are areas still affected by the earthquake of January 2021 as detailed above.
Update: 29 December 2020
Royal Mail and Parcelforce services to Europe have been reopened and are now fully operational. For items posted today, customers should expect a delay up to 2 working days for some countries.
Update: 22 December 2020
Following the announcement from the French government to restrict air, road, ferry and train travel from the UK to France from midnight on December 20 for a period of 48 hours, Royal Mail has temporarily suspended all mail services to Croatia. This is a fast-moving situation and we're monitoring things on an hourly basis. We're working to keep as many international mail services running as possible given the current restrictions. Items already in the system will be processed as normal and prepared for dispatch. These items will be held securely until we're able to get them to their relevant destinations. We're keeping the situation under close and constant review.
Original Incident: 16 March 2020
Croatia has put special measures in place from Monday 16 March, to limit the spread of Coronavirus. Croatian Post need to comply and is also likely to have a reduced workforce available, and not be able to deliver all mail to specifications. Signature on delivery is suspended and delays to mail services can be expected.
Start date: 23 March 2020
Latest Update: 13 January 2021
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 13 January 2021
Correos de Cuba has advised they have been providing the full range of domestic and international postal services on all mail types since 19 November 2020. However, the acceptance and delivery of all types of mail will depend on flight availability, which is still limited given COVID-19 restrictions, hence delay may be observed as a result.
Update: 25 November 2020
A new, alternative route has been identified, so despatches of mail to Cuba will resume from Friday 27 November. Due to limited air capacity and in-country Coronavirus restrictions however, delays may still be evident.
Update: 13 November 2020
Despatches to Cuba are to be suspended due to route unavailability from today, Friday 13 November. We are temporarily suspending acceptance of letters and parcels destined for Cuba, until an alternative route becomes available. Items already in our network will be returned to sender.
Update: 3 August 2020
Mail despatches to Cuba resume Tuesday 4 August 2020, and we’ll prioritise the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Original Incident: 23 March 2020
We're currently not sending items to Cuba as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you'll experience significant delays.
Start date: 16 March 2020
Latest Update: 29 January 2021
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 29 January 2021
Due to lack of available air capacity because of COVID 19, items reverted to a road and ferry network which is slowing traffic. We are seeking new air outlets. Items have been leaving the UK on time, and a large proportion of items are in-country and being passed through the customs and delivery process.
Update: 29 December 2020
Royal Mail and Parcelforce services to Europe have been reopened and are now fully operational. For items posted today, customers should expect a delay up to 2 working days for some countries.
Update: 22 December 2020
Following the announcement from the French government to restrict air, road, ferry and train travel from the UK to France from midnight on December 20 for a period of 48 hours, Royal Mail has temporarily suspended all mail services to Cyprus. This is a fast-moving situation and we're monitoring things on an hourly basis. We're working to keep as many international mail services running as possible given the current restrictions. Items already in the system will be processed as normal and prepared for dispatch. These items will be held securely until we're able to get them to their relevant destinations. We're keeping the situation under close and constant review.
Update: 2 October 2020
Cyprus Post has advised that some air carriers have resumed operating flights to Cyprus, and they will also be accepting inbound traffic. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Original Incident: 16 March 2020
We're accepting letters and parcels destined for Cyprus, however, delays may be experienced as air connections have been severely limited. We're looking at alternative solutions to maintain service.
Start date: 2 November 2020
Latest Update: 15 April 2021
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 15 April 2021
The lockdown has now ended. However, the previously announced restrictions in terms of service standards and application of force majeure remain in place. Hence, delays are still to be expected until further notice.
Update: 30 March 2021
Czech Post has updated that the Czech Republic has been hit with the third wave of Coronavirus. As a result, the Czech Republic authorities have extended the general lockdown until at least 12 April 2021. Due to the restrictions, quality of service cannot be guaranteed for all mail types, and Force Majeure remains in place until further notice.
Update: 2 March 2021
The Czech Republic has been hit with ae second wave of the coronavirus. The Czech Republic authorities have extended the general lockdown until at least 21 March 2021.
Due to all the restrictions, quality of service cannot be guaranteed for all mail types until the end of the epidemic with a situation of force majeure remain in place.
Update: 25 January 2021
The Czech Republic has been hit with the second wave of the coronavirus. The Czech Republic authorities have extended the Country general lockdown until at least 14 February 2021.
Due to all the restrictions, quality of service cannot be guaranteed for all mail types until the end of the epidemic with a situation of force majeure remain in place.
Update: 29 December 2020
Royal Mail and Parcelforce services to Europe have been reopened and are now fully operational. For items posted today, customers should expect a delay up to 2 working days for some countries.
Update: 22 December 2020
Following the announcement from the French government to restrict air, road, ferry and train travel from the UK to France from midnight on December 20 for a period of 48 hours, Royal Mail has temporarily suspended all mail services to Czech Republic. This is a fast-moving situation and we're monitoring things on an hourly basis. We're working to keep as many international mail services running as possible given the current restrictions. Items already in the system will be processed as normal and prepared for dispatch. These items will be held securely until we're able to get them to their relevant destinations. We're keeping the situation under close and constant review.
Original Incident: 2 November 2020
Czech Post has advised the Czech Republic has been hit with the second wave of Coronavirus. The Czech Republic Government declared a 30-day state of emergency for the entire country on 5 October 2020. This has been extended to 20 November. Due to the restrictions, quality of service cannot be guaranteed for all mail types until the end of the pandemic. Force Majeure is in place.
Start date: 9 November 2020
Latest Update: 29 December 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 29 December 2020
Royal Mail and Parcelforce services to Europe have been reopened and are now fully operational. For items posted today, customers should expect a delay up to 2 working days for some countries.
Update: 22 December 2020
Following the announcement from the French government to restrict air, road, ferry and train travel from the UK to France from midnight on December 20 for a period of 48 hours, Royal Mail has temporarily suspended all mail services to Denmark. This is a fast-moving situation and we're monitoring things on an hourly basis. We're working to keep as many international mail services running as possible given the current restrictions. Items already in the system will be processed as normal and prepared for dispatch. These items will be held securely until we're able to get them to their relevant destinations. We're keeping the situation under close and constant review.
Update: 19 November 2020
PostNord of Denmark has updated that the additional measures put in force by the Danish Government to minimize the spread of COVID-19 from 9 November will be lifted from 23 November 2020. However, with reduced air capacity, delays may still be evident.
PostNord of Denmark has advised that the Danish Government has implemented further special measures to minimize the spread of COVID-19. Delivery delays are likely from 9 November until 3 December 2020, or further notice. Force Majeure is in place.
Start date: 18 March 2020
Latest Update: 22 May 2020
End date: 28 May 2020
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 22 May 2020
Mail despatches to Djibouti resume on Thursday 28 May 2020, and we’ll prioritise the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Original Incident: 18 March 2020
We're currently not sending items to Djibouti as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you'll experience significant delays.
Start date: 17 March 2020
Latest update: 7 May 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 7 May 2020
Mail despatches to the Dominican Republic will resume on Sunday 10 May 2020, and we’ll prioritise the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Update: 24 April 2020
New transport links to the Dominican Republic have proven unstable, so we're currently not shipping letters and parcels. Items posted will be held and you will experience significant delays.
Update: 17 April 2020
Mail despatches to the Dominican Republic have resumed, and we’re prioritising the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Original Incident:
We're currently not sending items to the Dominican Republic as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you will experience significant delays.
Start date: 17 March 2020
Latest update: 7 May 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 7 May 2020
Mail despatches to Ecuador resume on Sunday 10 May 2020, and we’ll prioritise the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Update: 24 April 2020
New transport links to Ecuador have proven unstable, so we're currently not shipping letters and parcels. Items posted will be held and you will experience significant delays.
Update: 17 April 2020
Mail despatches to Ecuador have resumed, and we’re prioritising the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Original Incident: 17 March 2020
We're currently not sending items to Ecuador as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you'll experience significant delays.
Start date: 17 March 2020
Latest Update: 23 December 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 23 December 2020
Flight capacity to El Salvador is still limited, but inbound International mail services in El Salvador have now returned to normal. Delivery delays can still be expected due to in-country Coronavirus restrictions.
Update: 10 December 2020
With the last posting date of 10 December for destinations in the Caribbean, air transport links are extremely limited resulting in the cancelling of our planned flights. As a result, we're now sending mail and parcels bound for El Salvador by ship, so there's a risk some items may not arrive before Christmas.
Update: 22 September 2020
El Salvador Post has advised that the international airport will gradually reopen to commercial flights, from 19 September 2020, with a normal flight schedule expected to be in operation from 4 October 2020.
Due to the quarantine, gradual return of the workforce, the large volumes of accumulated mail and the additional items received on cargo flights in recent weeks, the processing and delivery of letter-post and registered mail items remain subject to delay and normal delivery quality standards.
Original Incident: 17 March 2020
The entire territory of El Salvador is under quarantine until 1 April 2020 or later, with a decree of extraordinary measures adopted. To minimize human contact and protect its workers, Correos de El Salvador is to significantly reduce its workforce across the logistics chain (from labelling to delivery).
As a result, delivery delays can be expected.
Start date: 23 July 2020
Latest Update: 14 September 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 14 September 2020
Mail despatches to Equatorial Guinea have resumed, and we’ll prioritise the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Original Incident: 23 July 2020
We're currently not sending items to Equatorial Guinea as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you'll experience significant delays.
Start date: 17 March 2020
Latest Update: 12 March 2021
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 12 March 2021
The Estonian government declared a nationwide lockdown on 11 March 2021. During lockdown, postal services will continue to operate, but under restrictions. Items normally requiring the addressee’s signature upon delivery will be handed over without a signature being taken. Registered letters (under 2cm thick) will be delivered to the addressee’s mailbox without a signature being collected, Registered letters over 2cm thick will be delivered to the addressee without their signature. The postal worker will sign to confirm delivery. Delays may also be observed as mail is being shipped to Estonia via alternative routing, due to limited flight availability.
Update: 29 December 2020
Royal Mail and Parcelforce services to Europe have been reopened and are now fully operational. For items posted today, customers should expect a delay up to 2 working days for some countries.
Update: 22 December 2020
Following the announcement from the French government to restrict air, road, ferry and train travel from the UK to France from midnight on December 20 for a period of 48 hours, Royal Mail has temporarily suspended all mail services to Estonia. This is a fast-moving situation and we're monitoring things on an hourly basis. We're working to keep as many international mail services running as possible given the current restrictions. Items already in the system will be processed as normal and prepared for dispatch. These items will be held securely until we're able to get them to their relevant destinations. We're keeping the situation under close and constant review.
Update: 6 October 2020
Estonia Post has advised us that from 1 October 2020, all inbound items will be delivered as per delivery standard. Letterboxable registered letters (under 2cm thick) will be delivered to the addressee’s mailbox without a signature being collected, registered letters over 2 cm thick will be handed over at post offices.
All courier shipments requiring a signature will be delivered to the addressee; a photo will be taken of the address card signed by the addressee while all deliveries will be made outdoors. Delays may still be observed due to alternative routing as a result of limited flight availability.
Update: 19 June 2020
Estonia Post has advised, with effect from 12 June 2020 all inbound items will be delivered to agreed delivery standards, and signatures once again collected on delivery. However, delays may still be observed due to alternative routing due to limited flight availability.
Update: 25 March 2020
Estonia has put special measures in place from 24 March, to limit the spread of Coronavirus. Eesti Post need to comply with these measures and may have reduced staff numbers so not able to deliver all mail to specifications. Signature on delivery is suspended and delays to mail services can be expected.
Original Incident: 17 March 2020
Eesti Post has informed us from 16 March 2020, they've suspended signature on delivery for inbound items, until further notice.
Start date: 3 April 2020
Latest Update: 21 May 2020
End date: 23 May 2020
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 21 May 2020
Mail despatches to Fiji resume on Saturday 23 May 2020, and we’ll prioritise the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Original Incident: 3 April 2020
We're currently not sending items to Fiji as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you'll experience significant delays.
Start date: 21 December 2020
Latest Update: 29 December 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 29 December 2020
Royal Mail and Parcelforce services to Europe have been reopened and are now fully operational. For items posted today, customers should expect a delay up to 2 working days for some countries.
Following the announcement from the French government to restrict air, road, ferry and train travel from the UK to France from midnight on December 20 for a period of 48 hours, Royal Mail has temporarily suspended all mail services to Finland. This is a fast-moving situation and we're monitoring things on an hourly basis. We're working to keep as many international mail services running as possible given the current restrictions. Items already in the system will be processed as normal and prepared for dispatch. These items will be held securely until we're able to get them to their relevant destinations. We're keeping the situation under close and constant review.
Start date: 16 March 2020
Latest Update: 7 April 2021
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 7 April 2021
La Poste has updated that the French Government has announced a new lockdown from 3 April to 2 May 2021. Reinforced measures have been put in place in the most impacted regions since 20 March, and this has now been extended to the whole country from 4 April, with restrictions on business and travel. All schools and colleges have been closed since 2 April. La Poste has to comply with all necessary measures, which is likely to impact mail operations so delivery standards can not be guaranteed.
Update: 29 December 2020
Royal Mail and Parcelforce services to Europe have been reopened and are now fully operational. For items posted today, customers should expect a delay up to 2 working days for some countries.
Update: 22 December 2020
Following the announcement from the French government to restrict air, road, ferry and train travel from the UK to France from midnight on December 20 for a period of 48 hours, Royal Mail has temporarily suspended all mail services to France. This is a fast-moving situation and we're monitoring things on an hourly basis. We're working to keep as many international mail services running as possible given the current restrictions. Items already in the system will be processed as normal and prepared for dispatch. These items will be held securely until we're able to get them to their relevant destinations. We're keeping the situation under close and constant review.
Update: 1 December 2020
La Poste has updated us, that on 24 November the Government announced a gradual easing of lockdown measures, in several phases, up until at least 20 January 2021. La Poste will comply with all measures required by the French Government, and may have to adjust the opening hours and operations at its Post Offices, mail processing and distribution centres. Delivery delays are possible, and delivery standards cannot be guaranteed while previously announced restrictions continue to apply. As a result, Force Majeure remains in effect until at least 20 January 2021.
Update: 2 November 2020
La Poste has advised that COVID-19 infections have significantly increased throughout France, as a result, the Government has announced a new lockdown until at least 1 December 2020. Consequently, La Poste will not be able to guarantee delivery standards during this period, with delays in processing and delivery of all mail types likely throughout the country.
Update: 1 October 2020
The French Post, La Post, has advised that Covid-19 circulation continues to increase in metropolitan France and the situation is growing worse.
The French Government has issued a map, classifying the country's territories according to four different alert levels. This map of alert zones is changing very rapidly - please refer to the website Indicators of epidemic activity for updates.
The alert levels for the 101 French departments are currently as follows:
– Alert zone: 71 departments are in the red zone
– Heightened alert zone: All the biggest population centres are affected, namely: Paris (75), Hauts-de-Seine (92), Seine-Saint-Denis (93), Val de Marne (95), Lyon (69), Lille (59), Montpellier (34), Bordeaux (33), Grenoble (38), Rennes (35), Rouen (76), Saint-Etienne (42), Toulouse (31) and Nice (06).
– Maximum alert zone: Guadeloupe (971) and Aix-Marseille (13)
– Public health emergency: no longer in force in any areas
Original Incident: 16 March 2020
France has put special measures in place from Monday 16 March, to limit the spread of Coronavirus. La Poste need to comply with these measures and may have reduced staff numbers so not able to deliver all mail to specifications. Signature on delivery is suspended and delays to mail services can be expected.
Start date: 17 February 2021
Latest Update:
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
The postal operator in French Polynesia, have informed us that owing to the reduction in the number of flights offered by partner airlines, and new measures to protect against COVID-19, it's currently unable to maintain processing quality or meet quality of service standards for letter-post, parcel-post or EMS items. As a result, delays to mail delivery/processing are to be expected.
Start date: 16 March 2020
Latest Update: 30 April 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 30 April 2020
Mail despatches to Georgia resume on Saturday 2 May 2020, and we’ll prioritise the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Update: 23 April 2020
We're currently not despatching items to Georgia as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you will experience significant delays.
Original Incident: 16 March 2020
Georgia has put special measures in place from Monday 16 March, to limit the spread of Coronavirus. Georgian Post need to comply with these measures and may have reduced staff numbers so not able to deliver all mail to specifications. Signature on delivery is suspended and delays to mail services can be expected.
Start date: 16 March 2020
Latest Update: 29 December 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 29 December 2020
Royal Mail and Parcelforce services to Europe have been reopened and are now fully operational. For items posted today, customers should expect a delay up to 2 working days for some countries.
Update: 22 December 2020
Following the announcement from the French government to restrict air, road, ferry and train travel from the UK to France from midnight on December 20 for a period of 48 hours, Royal Mail has temporarily suspended all mail services to Germany. This is a fast-moving situation and we're monitoring things on an hourly basis. We're working to keep as many international mail services running as possible given the current restrictions. Items already in the system will be processed as normal and prepared for dispatch. These items will be held securely until we're able to get them to their relevant destinations. We're keeping the situation under close and constant review.
Original Incident 16 March 2020
Germany has put special measures in place from Monday 16 March, to limit the spread of Coronavirus. Deutsche Post need to comply with these measures and may have reduced staff numbers so not able to deliver all mail to specifications. Signature on delivery is suspended and delays to mail services can be expected.
Incident 2
Start date: 15 February 2021
Latest Update: 3 March 2021
End date: 3 March 2021
Incident: Snowfalls and Snowstorms
Update: 3 March 2021
Hellenic Post has updated the impact from severe weather has been resolved.
Hellenic Post have advised, from 15 February, the northern areas of Greece have been affected by heavy snowfalls. From this morning (16 February), these snowfalls and snowstorms are now affecting all areas, in particular: Attica, Centre Greece, Peloponnese and Crete regions. The main highway connecting Athens and Salonika is closed. Many flights (domestic and international) to and from Athens International Airport are cancelled. As a result of the extreme weather conditions, combined with the general lockdown in Greece, delays can be expected until further notice.
Incident 1
Start date: 4 November 2020
Latest Update: 12 February 2021
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 12 February 2021
Hellenic Post of Greece has advised the Government have announced stricter local lockdown from 11 February 2021 for the Attica region where a significant proportion of the Greek population live. It’s likely more regions will follow in the next few days. As a result, delays can be expected until further notice.
Update: 29 January 2021
Due to lack of available air capacity because of COVID 19, items reverted to a road and ferry network which is slowing traffic. We are seeking new air outlets. Items have been leaving the UK on time, and a large proportion of items are in-country and being passed through the customs and delivery process.
Update: 5 January 2021
The Hellenic Post of Greece has advised that, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Greek Government has extended the general lockdown in place throughout Greece until the end of January 2021.
As result, delays can be expected during this period until further notice.
Update: 22 December 2020
Following the announcement from the French government to restrict air, road, ferry and train travel from the UK to France from midnight on December 20 for a period of 48 hours, Royal Mail has temporarily suspended all mail services to Greece. This is a fast-moving situation and we're monitoring things on an hourly basis. We're working to keep as many international mail services running as possible given the current restrictions. Items already in the system will be processed as normal and prepared for dispatch. These items will be held securely until we're able to get them to their relevant destinations. We're keeping the situation under close and constant review.
Update: 11 November 2020
Hellenic Post of Greece has advised that from Saturday 7 November, the whole of Greece entered a national lockdown. As a result, both domestic and international mail collection and delivery will be affected, leading to delays.
Original Incident: 4 November 2020
Hellenic Post of Greece have informed us that many regions in the north of the country are in lockdown due to COVID-19 from 3 November. Post will still be processed and delivered in these areas, but delays are likely during the lockdown period.
Start date: 27 March 2020
Latest Update: 11 May 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 11 May 2020
Grenada has put special measures in place from Monday 11 May, to limit the spread of Coronavirus. Grenada Postal Corporation need to comply and is also likely to have a reduced workforce available, and not be able to deliver all mail to specifications. Signature on delivery is suspended and delays to mail services can be expected.
Update: 7 May 2020
Mail despatches to Grenada will resume on Sunday 10 May 2020, and we’ll prioritise the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Update: 24 April 2020
New transport links to Grenada have proven unstable, so we're currently not shipping letters and parcels. Items posted will be held and you will experience significant delays.
Update: 17 April 2020
Mail despatches to Grenada have resumed, and we’re prioritising the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Original Incident: 27 March 2020
We're currently not sending items to Grenada as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you will experience significant delays.
Incident 2
Start date: 12 November 2020
Latest Update:
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Tropical Storm Eta
Guatemala Post have informed us there is disruption to services in the Eastern and North-Eastern regions of the country, due to Storm Eta. This service interruption will continue until the affected region is safe for operations to resume, so delivery delays can be expected in the affected regions. Inbound mail operations and service in the rest of the country remain unaffected.
Incident 1
Start date: 6 April 2020
Latest Update:
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Guatemala has put special measures in place from Monday 6 April 2020 to limit the spread of Coronavirus. Guatemala Post need to comply and is also likely to have a reduced workforce available, and not be able to deliver all mail to specifications. Signature on delivery is suspended and delays to mail services can be expected.
Start date: 27 March 2020
Latest Update: 10 December 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 10 December 2020
With the last posting date of 10 December for destinations in the Caribbean, air transport links are extremely limited resulting in the cancelling of our planned flights. As a result, we're now sending mail and parcels bound for Guyana by ship, so there's a risk some items may not arrive before Christmas.
Update: 7 May 2020
Mail despatches to Guyana will resume on Sunday 10 May 2020, and we’ll prioritise the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Update: 24 April 2020
New transport links to Guyana have proven unstable, so we're currently not shipping letters and parcels. Items posted will be held and you will experience significant delays.
Update: 17 April 2020
Mail despatches to Guyana have resumed, and we’re prioritising the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Original Incident: 27 March 2020
We're currently not sending items to Guyana as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you will experience significant delays.
Start date: 17 March 2020
Latest update:
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
We're currently not sending items to Haiti as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you will experience significant delays.
Start date: 16 March 2020
Latest Update: 9 April 2021
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 9 April 2021
The entire territory of Honduras continues to be subject to restrictions and to a curfew between 21.00 and 05.00 until further notice. In order to minimize human contact and protect its workers, Honducor have reduced its workforce across the logistics chain (from labelling to delivery) to 50%. This will have a significant impact on the quality of sorting and delivery of inbound items, and delays are to be expected in the processing of international accounts and inquiries as well as in the customs clearance of inbound and outbound items, hence will not meet quality standards with Force Majeure remaining in place.
Original Incident: 16 March 2020
Honduras has put special measures in place from Monday 16 March, to limit the spread of Coronavirus. Honducor need to comply with these measures and may have reduced staff numbers so not able to deliver all mail to specifications. Signature on delivery is suspended and delays to mail services can be expected.
Start date: 28 March 2020
Latest Update: 19 February 2021
End date: 19 February 2021
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 19 February 2021
Hong Kong Post have informed us, the measures taken by the government to limit the spread of COVID-19 have been lifted, and the Force Majeure previously announced has been closed from 18 February 2021. The processing and delivery of all mail type have returned to normal.
Update: 2 December 2020
Hong Kong Post has advised, the Government have announced special arrangements, effective from 1 December 2020, to limit the spread of COVID-19. As a result, the processing and delivery of all Inbound mail will be affected until further notice, with delays likely.
Update: 15 September 2020
Hong Kong Post has advised that the special working arrangements in place to limit the spread of COVID-19 have been lifted. The Force Majeure has also now ended. Delays may still be evident due to possible in-country backlogs and local restrictions.
Update: 2 September 2020
Hong Kong Post has advised that the special working arrangements have again been extended, and will remain in force until further notice, affecting the processing and delivery of all mail causing delivery delays. Force Majeure remains in place.
Update: 18 August 2020
Hong Kong Post has advised that the special working arrangements have been extended again, this time until 23 August 2020. Force Majeure remains in place.
Update: 11 August 2020
Hong Kong Post has advised that the special working arrangements have been extended again, this time until 16 August 2020. Force Majeure remains in place.
Update: 3 August 2020
Hong Kong Post has advised that the special working arrangements have been extended again, this time until 9 August 2020. Force Majeure remains in place.
Update: 27 July 2020
Hong Kong Post has advised that the special working arrangements have been extended until 2 August 2020. Force Majeure remains in place.
Update: 20 July 2020
Hong Kong Post has advised that special working arrangements to reduce the risk of the spread of COVID-19, announced by the government on 19 July 2020, will affect services from 20 to 26 July 2020 on the processing and delivery of all mail types. As a result, quality of service will possibly be affected both during, and immediately after this period.
Original incident: 28 March 2020
Hong Kong has put special measures in place from Saturday 28 March, to limit the spread of Coronavirus. Hong Kong Post need to comply with these measures and may have reduced staff numbers so not able to deliver all mail to specifications. Signature on delivery is suspended and delays to mail services can be expected.
Start date: 25 March 2020
Latest Update: 29 December 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 29 December 2020
Royal Mail and Parcelforce services to Europe have been reopened and are now fully operational. For items posted today, customers should expect a delay up to 2 working days for some countries.
Update: 22 December 2020
Following the announcement from the French government to restrict air, road, ferry and train travel from the UK to France from midnight on December 20 for a period of 48 hours, Royal Mail has temporarily suspended all mail services to Hungary. This is a fast-moving situation and we're monitoring things on an hourly basis. We're working to keep as many international mail services running as possible given the current restrictions. Items already in the system will be processed as normal and prepared for dispatch. These items will be held securely until we're able to get them to their relevant destinations. We're keeping the situation under close and constant review.
Original Incident: 25 March 2020
Hungary has put special measures in place from 24 March, to limit the spread of Coronavirus. Magyar Posta need to comply with these measures and may have reduced staff numbers so not able to deliver all mail to specifications. Signature on delivery is suspended and delays to mail services can be expected.
Start date: 3 April 2020
Latest Update: 29 December 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 29 December 2020
Royal Mail and Parcelforce services to Europe have been reopened and are now fully operational. For items posted today, customers should expect a delay up to 2 working days for some countries.
Update: 22 December 2020
Following the announcement from the French government to restrict air, road, ferry and train travel from the UK to France from midnight on December 20 for a period of 48 hours, Royal Mail has temporarily suspended all mail services to Iceland. This is a fast-moving situation and we're monitoring things on an hourly basis. We're working to keep as many international mail services running as possible given the current restrictions. Items already in the system will be processed as normal and prepared for dispatch. These items will be held securely until we're able to get them to their relevant destinations. We're keeping the situation under close and constant review.
Original Incident: 3 April 2020
Iceland has put special measures in place from 3 April, to limit the spread of Coronavirus. Iceland Post need to comply with these measures and may have reduced staff numbers so not able to deliver all mail to specifications. Signature on delivery is suspended and delays to mail services can be expected.
Start date: 25 March 2020
Latest Update: 11 May 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 11 May 2020
India has put special measures in place from Monday 11 May, to limit the spread of Coronavirus. India Post need to comply and is also likely to have a reduced workforce available, and not be able to deliver all mail to specifications. Signature on delivery is suspended and delays to mail services can be expected.
Update: 28 April 2020
Mail despatches to India have resumed, and we’re prioritising the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Original Incident: 25 March 2020
We're currently not sending items to India as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you'll experience significant delays.
Incident 1
Start date: 4 April 2021
Latest Update: 12 April 2021
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Severe Weather - Flooding
Indonesian Post has informed that heavy rain in East Nusa Tenggara Province on Sunday 4 April 2021, led to floods and landslides which rendered all major roads in those areas inpassible by vehicle. Delays are therefore to be expected in the processing and delivery of all mail types. Affected postcode areas from Friday 9 April are:
- Kupang: 850xx
- Soe: 855xx
- Atambua: 857xx
- Maumere: 861xx
- Ende: 863xx
- Komodo: 867xx
- Waingapu: 871xx
Incident 2
Start date: 24 March 2020
Latest Update:
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Indonesia has put special measures in place from 24 March, to limit the spread of Coronavirus. Pos Indonesia need to comply with these measures and may have reduced staff numbers so not able to deliver all mail to specifications. Signature on delivery is suspended and delays to mail services can be expected.
Start date: 14 April 2020
Latest Update: 2 March 2021
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 2 March 2021
An alternative route has been established and despatches will resume from 7 March 2021. Item delivery is still subject to any local restrictions.
Update: 13 January 2021
Despatches to Iran are temporarily suspended as our air carrier has cancelled flights between the UK and Iran due to the current COVID-19 situation. Items already in the pipeline will be held pending resumption of flights.
Original Incident: 14 April 2020
Iran has put special measures in place from Monday 16 March, to limit the spread of Coronavirus. Iranian Post need to comply with these measures and may have reduced staff numbers so not able to deliver all mail to specifications. Signature on delivery is suspended and delays to mail services can be expected.
Start date: 23 April 2020
Latest Update: 11 June 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 11 June 2020
Mail despatches to Iraq have resumed, and we’re prioritising the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Original Incident: 23 April 2020
We're currently not sending items to Iraq as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you will experience significant delays.
Latest update: 16 March 2020
Latest update: 9 April 2021
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 9 April 2021
Israel Postal Company have informed us that the lockdown announced on 11 January 2021 has now ended. However, the restrictions in terms of service standards and application of Force Majeure remain in place. Postal services will continue to function with restrictions. These measures will affect the processing and delivery of all mail types.
Update: 12 January 2021
Israeli Post has advised that, due to increased COVID infections, the Government of Israel have extended general lockdown for the whole country to at least 22 January 2021, which could be extended subject to review.
Postal services will continue to function with restrictions and signature not collected on delivery. These measures will affect the processing and delivery of all mail types and Force Majeure remains in place. Further updates will be provided when available from Israeli Post
Update: 5 January 2021
Israeli Post has advised that, due to increased COVID infections, the Government of Israel have declared a general lockdown for the whole country from 27 December 2020, and last until 11 January 2021 which could be extended subject to review. Postal services will continue to function with restrictions and signatures not collected on delivery.These measures will affect the processing and delivery of all mail types with Force Majeure remaining in place.
Update: 10 November 2020
Israeli Post have advised that the lockdown declared by the Israeli Health Authorities is gradually being lifted and restrictions have been eased. However, social distancing is still required. Shopping centres remain closed, so delivery points located in these areas are unavailable. Where possible, mail is being redirected to alternative delivery points.
Signatures are not collected upon delivery. Home deliveries are continuing, subject to some restrictions, availability of staff and the Health Authorities’ application of quarantine measures in high-risk areas. Delivery delays are still likely, Force Majeure remains in place.
Update: 16 September 2020
Israeli Post has informed us that due to an increase in COVID 19 infections, the Israeli Government has declared a general lockdown for the whole country from 18 September to 11 October 2020 which may be extended subject to review.
Postal services will continue to function with restrictions, such as reduced working hours and a reduced workforce, hence delivery and quality of service on all mail types will be affected. Also, to minimise of people contact, signatures will not be collected on delivery. Also, to minimise of people contact, signature will not be collected on delivery.
We'll update this incident as more information becomes available from Israeli Post.
Original Incident: 16 March 2020
Israel has put special measures in place from Monday 16 March, to limit the spread of Coronavirus. Israel Post need to comply with these measures and may have reduced staff numbers so not able to deliver all mail to specifications. Signature on delivery is suspended and delays to mail services can be expected.
Incident 2
Start date: 5 January 2021
Latest update: 15 March 2021
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Customs Clearance
Update: 15 March 2021
Poste Italiane has informed that due to the very high, unexpected parcel volumes received from Non-EU Countries, it has led to a backlog to their Customs warehouse operation with considerable difficulties in storing and customs clearing the incoming parcel & mail items from Outside of EU. While they are working to clear any back log, further delays are likely in addition to those as result of any COVID restrictions previously declared.
Update: 4 February 2021
Items are leaving the UK on time and accepted in country. The implementation of new customs procedures in Italy for UK traffic, the volume of items requiring customs checks, missing and/or partly or incorrectly completed customs declarations including electronic customs data and system issues are causing significant delays. The in country postal operator is urgently working to clear items as quickly as possible and to resume a normal service. Any non compliant customs declarations (e.g. no customs declaration or partly/incorrectly completed) will be returned to sender.
Update: 29 January 2021
Items requiring customs checks are being moved from Milan to Turin, and the implementation of new customs procedures for UK traffic and missing and/or poor quality customs declarations and electronic customs data are causing delays.
Update: 20 January 2021
Post Italinne has advised the situation is back to normal with regards to structural damage from bad weather at ITMILA (MILANO ROSERIO DOGANA), the exchange office dedicated to customs clearance, while still subject to COVID restrictions as previously declared.
Post Italiane has informed that ITMILA (MILANO ROSERIO DOGANA), the exchange office dedicated to customs clearance, has sustained structural damage from bad weather condition in Northern Itay.
As a result, delays in the acceptance of the mail from non-European Union countries can be expected, as customs processing times have already increased during peak period.
Incident 1
Start date: 20 February 2020
Latest update: 29 December 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 29 December 2020
Royal Mail and Parcelforce services to Europe have been reopened and are now fully operational. For items posted today, customers should expect a delay up to 2 working days for some countries.
Update: 22 December 2020
Following the announcement from the French government to restrict air, road, ferry and train travel from the UK to France from midnight on December 20 for a period of 48 hours, Royal Mail has temporarily suspended all mail services to Italy. This is a fast-moving situation and we're monitoring things on an hourly basis. We're working to keep as many international mail services running as possible given the current restrictions. Items already in the system will be processed as normal and prepared for dispatch. These items will be held securely until we're able to get them to their relevant destinations. We're keeping the situation under close and constant review.
Update: 6 November 2020
Post Italiane advise on their website from 1 August 2020, standard delivery practices, including the taking of signatures on delivery, have resumed in all areas of the country, with the recipient being required to wear face coverings. If the addressee’s condition does not allow safe delivery, a notice of delivery with instructions for item collection will be placed in the mailbox.
Update: 2 April 2020
Poste Italiane advise if the addressee cannot be contacted, or in the case of parcels addressed to businesses, cultural institutions, commercial activities and other entities which are temporarily closed in accordance with the Prime Ministerial Decree of 25 March 2020, items can be returned to sender after the first delivery attempt. The list of most affected municipalities is constantly updated and can be found on the Poste Italiane website.
In order to protect employees’ health, only parcels below 25kg weight and a combined length/width/height of 150cm can be accepted, to allow single-person processing.
Update: 13 March 2020
Italian Post has advised the whole of the country has now become a Yellow Zone, subject to extraordinary measures, which is effective until 3 April or unless a later date is advised. Human movement and social contact are to be minimised. Commercial transport is permitted with precautionary measures aims at preventing/minimising human contact to preserve personal safety. As a result, there has been a heavy reduction in work force applied in the logistic chain within Italian Post, impacting on processing and delivery.
As a result Quality of service is affected on all postal products until the end of the Coronavirus epidemic. Precautionary delivery methods continue with signatures not obtainable from the actual addressee during this period.
Update: 10 March 2020
Our air carrier has cancelled all flights to Italy until further notice. In order to keep mail to Italy moving we'll be using the road network, which will result in an additional 24-48 hours transit time.
Update: 20 February 2020
Poste Italiane has informed us that, in order to minimize the spread of the novel coronavirus (Covid-19), temporary closures will be applied to the following postcodes from 22 February 2020. As a result, the collection and delivery of letter-post, parcel-post and EMS items to/from the locations below is temporarily suspended:
CASALPUSTERLENGO: 26814, 26821, 26822, 26823, 26826, 26827, 26828, 26841, 26842, 26843, 26844, 26845, 26846, 26847, 26848, 26849, 26856, 26861, 26862, 26863, 26864, 26865, 26867:
LIVRAGA: 26814.
BERTONICO: 26821.
BREMBIO:26822.
CASTIGLIONE D’ADDA: 26823.
SECUGNAGO: 26826.
TERRANOVA DEI PASSERINI: 26827.
TURANO LODGIANIO:26828.
CASALPUSTERLENGO:26841.
CASELLE LANDI: 26842.
CORNOVECCHIO: 26842.
CASTELNUOVO BOCCA D'ADDA: 26843.
MACCATORNA: 26843.
MELETI: 26843.
CASTELGERUNDO: 26844.
CODOGNO: 26845.
CORNO GIOVINE: 26846.
MALEO: 26847.
SAN FIORANO: 26848.
SANTO STEFANO LODIGIANO: 26849.
SENNA LODIGIANO: 26856.
FOMBIO: 26861.
GUARDAMIGLIO: 26862.
ORIO LITTA: 26863.
O SPEDALETTO LODIGIANO: 26864.
SAN ROCCO AL PORTO:26865.
SOMAGLIA: 26867.
VENETO:35030.
Start date: 27 March 2020
Latest Update: 16 April 2021
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 16 April 2021
The Government of Jamaica has extended the national curfew until 4 May 2021. The force majeure situation previously announced continues to apply with impact on quality of service for all mail types and delivery delays expected as a result.
Update: 24 March 2021
Jamaica Post has updated that the Government of Jamaica has extended the national curfew until 13 April 2021. Force Majeure continues to apply with an impact on quality of service and delivery delays for all mail types until further notice.
Update: 2 March 2021
Jamaica Post has updated that the Government of Jamaica has extended the national curfew until 22 March 2021. Force Majeure continues to apply with an impact on quality of service and delivery delays for all mail types until further notice.
Update: 20 January 2021
The Jamaican Government has extended the national curfew until 28 February 2021. Force Majeure continues to apply with an impact on quality of service and delivery delays for all mail types until further notice.
Update: 6 January 2021
Jamaica Post has updated that the Government of Jamaica has extended the national curfew until 15 January 2021. Force majeure continues to apply, with an impact on quality of service on all mail types until further notice.
Update: 2 December 2020
Jamaica Post has advised that the national curfew has been extended until 31 December 2020. Force Majeure continues to apply.
Update: 18 November 2020
The Government of Jamaica has further extended the national curfew until 1 December 2020. Force Majeure continues to apply.
Update: 2 November 2020
The Government of Jamaica has further extended the national curfew until 16 November 2020. Force majeure continues to apply, with an impact on quality of service on all mail types until further notice.
Update: 22 October 2020
Jamaica Post has advised the Government has extended the national curfew until 1 November 2020. While the curfew is in place, revised working shifts/hours will continue to apply across the entire postal network, impacting on processing and delivery. Force majeure continues to apply, with an impact on quality of service on all mail types until further notice.
Update: 7 May 2020
Mail despatches to Jamaica will resume on Sunday 10 May 2020, and we’ll prioritise the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Update: 24 April 2020
New transport links to Jamaica have proven unstable, so we're currently not shipping letters and parcels. Items posted will be held and you will experience significant delays.
Update: 17 April 2020
Mail despatches to Jamaica have resumed, and we’re prioritising the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Original Incident: 27 March 2020
We're currently not sending items to Jamaica as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you will experience significant delays.
Start date: 11 March 2020
Latest Update: 2 June 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 2 June 2020
Japan Post has advised they are now behind in clearing their international mail centres for onward transit of items into the country. Customers should expect delays until backlogs are cleared.
Original Incident: 11 March 2020
We're accepting letters and parcels destined for Japan, however, delays may be experienced as air connections have been severely limited. We're looking at alternative solutions to maintain service.
Start date: 21 April 2020
Latest Update: 28 April 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 28 April 2020
Mail despatches to Jordan have resumed, and we’re prioritising the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Update: 23 April 2020
We're currently not sending items to Jordan as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you'll experience significant delays.
Original Incident: 21 April 2020
Jordan has put special measures in place to limit the spread of Coronavirus. Jordan Post need to comply with these measures and may have reduced staff numbers so not able to deliver all mail to specifications. Signature on delivery is suspended and delays to mail services can be expected.
Start date: 24 April 2020
Latest Update: 6 August 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 6 August 20200
Mail despatches to the Kosovo resume Friday 7 August 2020, and we’ll prioritise the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Original Incident: 24 April 2020
We're currently not sending items to Kosovo as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you'll experience significant delays.
Start date: 12 March 2020
Latest Update: 22 June 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 22 June 2020
Mail despatches to Kuwait resume today, Monday 22 June 2020. We’ll prioritise the processing and shipment of mail returned to the UK after being posted during late May and early June. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Update: 11 June 2020
Kuwait has implemented a national lockdown until 21 June 2020, including the suspension of all inbound flights. Some items posted in late May and early June that were in-transit are being returned to the UK, to be re-shipped on or shortly after 21 June 2020. We're advising customers not to post to Kuwait until on or after 21 June 2020.
Update: 29 April 2020
Mail despatches to Kuwait resume on Friday 1 May 2020, and we’ll prioritise the processing and shipment of mail held during the period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Original Incident: 12 March 2020
We're currently not sending items to Kuwait as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you'll experience significant delays.
Start date: 18 March 2020
Latest Update: 8 April 2021
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 8 April 2021
The Latvian Government has lifted the state of emergency with effect from 7 April 2021. However, due to the cancellation of flights and certain safety measures that remain in place, the processing of inbound and outbound mail may still be subject to significant delays.
Update: 8 February 2021
Latvian Post has advised, the state of emergency in Latvia has been extended to at least 6 April 2021. Postal services will continue to function with reduced working hours and workforce. Signatures will not be collected upon delivery. The measures will affect the processing and delivery of all mail types, with Force Majeure declared until the situation is back to normal.
Update: 7 January 2021
Latvian Post has updated that the state of emergency has been extended to 7 February 2021. Postal services will continue to function with reduced working hours and reduction of the workforce. Signatures will not be collected upon delivery. The measures will affect the processing and delivery of all mail types, with Force Majeure declared until the situation is back to normal.
Update: 29 December 2020
Royal Mail and Parcelforce services to Europe have been reopened and are now fully operational. For items posted today, customers should expect a delay up to 2 working days for some countries.
Update: 22 December 2020
Following the announcement from the French government to restrict air, road, ferry and train travel from the UK to France from midnight on December 20 for a period of 48 hours, Royal Mail has temporarily suspended all mail services to Latvia. This is a fast-moving situation and we're monitoring things on an hourly basis. We're working to keep as many international mail services running as possible given the current restrictions. Items already in the system will be processed as normal and prepared for dispatch. These items will be held securely until we're able to get them to their relevant destinations. We're keeping the situation under close and constant review.
Update: 2 December 2020
Latvian Post have advised, the state of emergency existing in the country has been extended until 11 January 2021. Postal services will continue to function with reduced working hours and workforce. Signatures will not be collected upon delivery. The measures will affect the processing and delivery of all mail types with Force Majeure declared until the situation returns to normal.
Update: 10 November 2020
Latvian Post have advised that a state of emergency has been declared by the Government from 9 November until 6 December 2020 and possibly beyond. Postal services will continue to function with reduced working hours and workforce. Signatures will not be collected on delivery. The measures will affect the processing and delivery of all mail types, with Force Majeure declared until the state of emergency is lifted.
Original Incident: 18 March 2020
We're accepting letters and parcels destined for Latvia, however, delays may be experienced as air connections have been severely limited. We're looking at alternative solutions to maintain service.
Start Date: 4 August 2020
Latest Update: 7 August 2020
End Date: Ongoing
Incident Beirut Explosion
Update: 7 August 2020
Lebanon Post has advised they are planning to resume postal services on Monday 10 August nationwide, and where possible, in the directly impacted areas of Beirut by creating special delivery hubs. However, please note that delivery delays may still occur due to possible mail backlogs and conditions in the affected areas.
Original Incident: 4 August 2020
Lebanon Post has informed us that the explosion which occurred on 4 August in Beirut, has damaged some of Liban Post’s distribution centres. Post offices in the area have also been either partially or totally destroyed. Postal operations at the office of exchange, distribution centres and post offices, as well as all support functions have been suspended throughout Lebanon until further notice. An update will be provided as soon as one is available.
Start date: 19 March 2020
Latest Update: 13 November 2020
End Date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 13 November 2020
Lebanon Post has informed us that a new nationwide lockdown has been announced, effective from 14 to 30 November 2020. Beirut Rafic-Hariri International Airport will remain open to send and receive mail dispatches. Distribution centres and the Office of Exchange will continue to process mail, but at a reduced capacity. As a result, delivery delays can be expected on all mail types during the period of lockdown.
Update: 30 July 2020
Lebanon Post has informed us that the Lebanese government have re imposed a complete lockdown until 10 August 2020. However, the international airport is to remain open to cargo flights, so we'll still be sending mail to Lebanon, but delivery delays must be expected due to the in-country lockdown.
Update: 13 May 2020
LibanPost has advised us that the Lebanese Government has reinstated complete lockdown measures, starting 12 May 2020 until 18 May 2020.
To comply with these measures, LibanPost has closed its postal network and as a result, all mail items will be delayed.
Update: 30 April 2020
Mail despatches to Lebanon resume on Friday 1 May 2020, and we’ll prioritise the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Original Incident: 19 March 2020
We're currently not sending items to Lebanon as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you'll experience significant delays.
Start date: 23 July 2020
Latest Update: 25 November 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 25 November 2020
A new, alternative route has been identified, so despatches of mail to Liberia will resume from Thursday 26 November. Due to limited air capacity and in-country Coronavirus restrictions however, delays may still be evident.
Original Incident: 23 July 2020
We're currently not sending items to Liberia as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you'll experience significant delays.
No service since July 2014.
Start date: 16 March 2020
Latest Update: 10 May 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 11 May 2020
Liechtensteinische Post AG have advised they will resume signature on delivery where appropriate.
Original Incident: 16 March 2020
Liechtenstein has put special measures in place from Monday 16 March, to limit the spread of Coronavirus. Liechtensteinische Post AG need to comply with these measures and may have reduced staff numbers so not able to deliver all mail to specifications. Signature on delivery is suspended and delays to mail services can be expected.
Start date: 17 March 2020
Latest Update: 1 April 2021
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 1 April 2021
Lithuania Post has updated that the Lithuanian Government has extended the full national lockdown until 30 April 2021, in order to control the spread of Coronavirus. Postal services will continue to operate under restrictions with a reduced workforce and no signature collected upon delivery. The delivery standard of all mail types will continue to be affected, Force Majeure continues to apply.
Update: 1 March 2021
The Lithuanian Government has extended the full-country lockdown until 31 March 2021, in order to control the spread of the coronavirus. Postal services will continue to operate under restrictions with a reduced workforce and no signature collected upon delivery. The delivery standard of all mail types will continue to be affected, Force Majeure continues to apply.
Update: 29 December 2020
Royal Mail and Parcelforce services to Europe have been reopened and are now fully operational. For items posted today, customers should expect a delay up to 2 working days for some countries.
Update: 22 December 2020
Following the announcement from the French government to restrict air, road, ferry and train travel from the UK to France from midnight on December 20 for a period of 48 hours, Royal Mail has temporarily suspended all mail services to Lithuania. This is a fast-moving situation and we're monitoring things on an hourly basis. We're working to keep as many international mail services running as possible given the current restrictions. Items already in the system will be processed as normal and prepared for dispatch. These items will be held securely until we're able to get them to their relevant destinations. We're keeping the situation under close and constant review.
Update: 19 December 2020
The Lithuanian Government has approved tighter lockdown measures and extended the national quarantine regime throughout the country until 31 January 2021.
Force majeure continues to apply, with no signature on delivery and impacting delivery on all mail types as result.
Update: 12 November 2020
Lithuania Post has advised that the Government has put 12 municipalities under quarantine from 26 October, then followed with a three-week nationwide lockdown from 7 November, with a possibility this will be extended. Signature collection on delivery has been suspended. The special measures in place will affect the processing and delivery of all mail types, and Force Majeure is in force.
Update: 30 March 2020
Lithuania Post has advised the government of the Republic of Lithuania has declared quarantine on the entire country for a further two weeks (up to 13 April). There will be delays to mail services as a result. All items requiring a signature will be delivered indirectly without signatures being obtained.
Original Incident: 17 March 2020
Lithuania Post have advised, in accordance with measures taken to minimize the spread of Coronavirus, and the requirements of the government of Lithuania, all letter-post, parcel-post and EMS items requiring a signature on delivery will be delivered to customers indirectly. Lithuania Post is therefore unable to collect and provide written proof of delivery until further notice.
Start date: 23 March 2020
Latest Update: 29 December 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 29 December 2020
Royal Mail and Parcelforce services to Europe have been reopened and are now fully operational. For items posted today, customers should expect a delay up to 2 working days for some countries.
Update: 22 December 2020
Following the announcement from the French government to restrict air, road, ferry and train travel from the UK to France from midnight on December 20 for a period of 48 hours, Royal Mail has temporarily suspended all mail services to Luxembourg. This is a fast-moving situation and we're monitoring things on an hourly basis. We're working to keep as many international mail services running as possible given the current restrictions. Items already in the system will be processed as normal and prepared for dispatch. These items will be held securely until we're able to get them to their relevant destinations. We're keeping the situation under close and constant review.
Update: 1 December 2020
Post Luxembourg have advised that, due to a second wave of COVID-19, new restrictions will be in place from 26 November until 15 December 2020. There will be delays to mail services as a result. All items requiring a signature will be signed for by the postman/woman, along with the delivery code and in the presence of the addressee.
Original Incident: 23 March 2020
Post Luxembourg has put special measures in place from Monday 16 March, to limit the spread of Coronavirus. Post Luxembourg need to comply with these measures and may have reduced staff numbers so not able to deliver all mail to specifications. Signature on delivery is suspended and delays to mail services can be expected.
Start date: 13 October 2020
Latest Update: 13 October 2020
End date: 14 October 2020
Incident: Tropical Cyclone - Mail services suspended
Update: 15 October
Macao Post has updated that all postal services resumed on 14 October 2020. However, there may still be delays due to possible backlogs and mail awaiting transit.
Original incident 13 October
All mail services have been suspended due to Tropical Cyclone Nangka.
Start date: 23 March 2020
Latest Update: 2 April 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 2 April
Mail despatches to Macedonia have resumed, and we’re prioritising the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Original Incident: 23 March 2020
We're currently not sending items to Macedonia as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you'll experience significant delays.
Start date: 3 April 2020
Latest Update: 22 May 2020
End date: 27 May 2020
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 22 May 2020
Mail despatches to Malawi resume on Wednesday 27 May 2020, and we’ll prioritise the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Original Incident: 3 April 2020
We're currently not sending items to Malawi as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you'll experience significant delays.
Start date: 16 March 2020
Latest Update: 27 October 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: CoronaVirus
Update: 27 October 2020
Malaysian Post has advised the Government has imposed further restrictions in Selangor and Putrajaya provinces starting on 20 October 2020, due to COVID-19. The measures lead to a reduced workforce and processing capacity at the Office of Exchange and Hub at Kuala Lumpur International Airport, resulting in significant processing delays for all inbound mail types.
Domestic services and deliveries are still in operation, however force majeure remains in place with delays to be expected while the restrictions are in place.
Original Incident: 16 March 2020
Malaysia has put special measures in place from Monday 16 March, to limit the spread of Coronavirus. Pos Malaysia need to comply with these measures and may have reduced staff numbers so not able to deliver all mail to specifications. Signature on delivery is suspended and delays to mail services can be expected.
Start date: 19 March 2020
Latest Update: 4 June 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 4 June 2020
The Maldives has put special quarantine measures in place against Coronavirus. As a result, Maldives Post may not be able to deliver mail to specifications, with signatures on delivery suspended in order to prevent spread of the infection. Delays to mail services can be expected.
Update: 20 May 2020
Mail despatches to the Maldives resume on Thursday 21 May 2020. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Update 27 March 2020
The processing suspension in the Maldives has been extended until 4 April, also flights have been suspended. We're accepting letters and parcels destined for the Maldives, however, delays may be experienced as we're looking at alternative solutions to maintain service.
Original Incident: 19 March 2020
Maldives Post has informed us they are suspending the processing of all inbound and outbound mail from 19 to 28 March 2020. The disruption is expected to continue until the epidemic is over. As a result, there will be delays to mail services.
Start date: 3 April 2020
Latest Update: 11 August 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 11 August 2020
Mali Post has advised that normal mail operations resumed on 5 August 2020, however delays may still be evident as they work to clear any backlogs.
Update: 4 May 2020
Mail despatches to Mali have resumed. We’ll prioritise the processing and shipment of any remaining mail being held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus, and mail previously despatched by sea is still in transit.
Original incident:
We're currently not sending items to Mali as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you'll experience significant delays.
Start date: 16 March 2020
Latest Update: 18 March 2021
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 18 March 2021
Malta Post has advised that due to COVID-19 emergency and new government measures there is very limited airline capacity to Malta, all Letter and parcel/EMS services remain severely disrupted. This disruption is expected to continue until airlines resume normal operations and sufficient transportation capacity is available. Malta Post cannot currently guarantee delivery standards with processing and delivery delay of mail to be expected throughout the islands of Malta under force majeure situation.
Update: 29 December 2020
Royal Mail and Parcelforce services to Europe have been reopened and are now fully operational. For items posted today, customers should expect a delay up to 2 working days for some countries.
Update: 22 December 2020
Following the announcement from the French government to restrict air, road, ferry and train travel from the UK to France from midnight on December 20 for a period of 48 hours, Royal Mail has temporarily suspended all mail services to Malta. This is a fast-moving situation and we're monitoring things on an hourly basis. We're working to keep as many international mail services running as possible given the current restrictions. Items already in the system will be processed as normal and prepared for dispatch. These items will be held securely until we're able to get them to their relevant destinations. We're keeping the situation under close and constant review.
Update: 19 November 2020
Malta Post has advised, due to COVID-19, all postal services continue to be severely affected, as airline connectivity to Malta is limited. This disruption is expected to continue until airlines resume normal operations with sufficient capacity. Delays in the processing and delivery of mail are also to be expected throughout the islands of Malta, with quality of service standards affected. Force Majeure is in place.
Update: 14 July 2020
Malta Post has advised that from 1 July 2020, the taking of signatures on delivery recommenced. However, delays to mail services due to other Coronavirus restrictions are still evident.
Original Incident: 16 March 2020
Malta has put special measures in place from Monday 16 March, to limit the spread of Coronavirus. Malta Post need to comply with these measures and may have reduced staff numbers so not able to deliver all mail to specifications. Signature on delivery is suspended and delays to mail services can be expected.
Start date: 18 March 2020
Latest Update: 27 July 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 27 July 2020
Mail despatches to Mauritania resume on Tuesday 28 July 2020, and we’re prioritising the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Original Incident: 18 March 2020
We're currently not sending items to Mauritania as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you'll experience significant delays.
Start date: 16 March 2020
Latest Update: 6 April 2021
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 6 April 2021
Mauritius Post has updated that the Government of Mauritius has extended the current lockdown until 30 April 2021. During this lockdown, postal services will be limited to the payment of pensions to senior citizens until 10 April. All postal activities will resume from 12 April while complying with quarantine restrictions. The processing and delivery of all mail types will continue to be affected, and Mauritius Post is unable to guarantee compliance with the agreed standards.
Update: 24 March 2021
Mauritius Post has updated that the Government of Mauritius has announced an extension to the current national lockdown until 30 March 2021. All post offices and international mail processing centres are closed. As a result, the processing of all inbound and outbound mail, mail delivery, as well as the timely provision of EDI messaging updates and responses to online customer inquiries will continue to be affected. Force Majeure remains in place until further notice, with an impact on quality of service for all types of mail (letter-post, parcel-post and EMS items).
Update: 10 March 2021
Mauritius Post has updated that the Government have announced a new national lockdown from 10 to 25 March 2021 to fight the resurgence of COVID-19. Under the lockdown, only essential services will remain open with Post offices being closed. The processing and delivery of all mail types will continue to be affected.Mauritius Post is unable to meet agreed standards, with Force Majeure remaining in place until further notice.
Update: 8 January 2021
Mauritius Post has advised that inbound international mail services are operating normally.
However, as only a few airlines have resumed their operations, Mauritius Post is still unable to guarantee service standards for inbound and outbound mail. Force majeure remains in place until further notice.
Update: 12 November 2020
Despatches to Mauritius are to resume from Saturday 14 November. However, due to a reduced flight availability and possible local restrictions, delays will still be evident.
Update: 26 October 2020
We're no longer shipping mail to Mauritius due to the lack of direct air access and unavailability of suitable alternative routes.
Update: 22 October 2020
Flight disruption to Mauritius means all mail types will experience extended transit times up to and shortly after 1 November 2020.
Update: 17 June 2020
Mail despatches to Mauritius resume on Thursday 18 June 2020, and we’re prioritising the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Original Incident: 16 March 2020
We're currently not sending items to Mauritius as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you'll experience significant delays.
Start date: 16 March 2020
Latest Update: 9 November 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 9 November 2020
The Mexican Post office has advised that Coronavirus is still affecting all points of entry into the country. As part of the Government's special measures to combat the pandemic, the Mexican customs authority will be operating with a reduced workforce until January 2021. As a result, delays are to be expected in the delivery of all mail types.
Original Incident: 16 March 2020
Mexico has put special measures in place from Monday 16 March, to limit the spread of Coronavirus. Correos de Mexico need to comply with these measures and may have reduced staff numbers so not able to deliver all mail to specifications. Signature on delivery is suspended and delays to mail services can be expected.
Start date: 17 March 2020
Latest Update: 29 December 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 29 December 2020
Royal Mail and Parcelforce services to Europe have been reopened and are now fully operational. For items posted today, customers should expect a delay up to 2 working days for some countries.
Update: 22 December 2020
Following the announcement from the French government to restrict air, road, ferry and train travel from the UK to France from midnight on December 20 for a period of 48 hours, Royal Mail has temporarily suspended all mail services to Moldova. This is a fast-moving situation and we're monitoring things on an hourly basis. We're working to keep as many international mail services running as possible given the current restrictions. Items already in the system will be processed as normal and prepared for dispatch. These items will be held securely until we're able to get them to their relevant destinations. We're keeping the situation under close and constant review.
Update: 2 April 2020
Mail despatches to Moldova have resumed, and we’re prioritising the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Original Incident: 17 March 2020
We're currently not sending items to Moldova as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you'll experience significant delays.
Start date: 27 January 2020
Latest Update: 8 April 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
We're accepting letters and parcels destined for Mongolia, however, due to Covid-19 we expect items to be held at the point of entry as Mongolia has now closed all mail centres and no delivery services are available.
Update 8 April 2020
Mongolia Post has updated that all International flights to and from Ulaanbaatar are suspended until 30 April. The international mail processing centre (MNULNA) will remain closed until 1 May 2020 and this may be extended. As result, mail deliveries will experience delays during the stated periods and immediately after.
Update: 10 March 2020
Mongolia Post has confirmed the first case of COVID-19 infection has now been recorded in Mongolia. To help prevent the virus from spreading, all international flights, both inbound and outbound are suspended from 11-30 March and domestic routes are closed from 10-16 March 2020. These periods may be extended.
Original Incident: 27 January
Mongol Post is temporarily closing its international mail centre from 15 March to 1 April 2020. As a result, mail deliveries will experience delays during these periods and immediately after.
Start date: 23 March 2020
Latest Update: 29 April 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 29 April 2020
Mail despatches to Montenegro resume on Friday 1 May 2020, and we’ll prioritise the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Original Incident: 23 March 2020
We're currently not sending items to Montenegro as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you'll experience significant delays.
Start date: 3 April 2020
Latest Update: 4 May 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 4 May 2020
Mail despatches to Morocco have resumed. We’ll prioritise the processing and shipment of any remaining mail being held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus, and mail previously despatched by sea is still in transit.
Original incident
We're currently not sending items to Morocco as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you'll experience significant delays.
Start date: 27 March 2020
Latest Update: 19 October 2020
End date:
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 19 October 2020
Inbound flights have resumed to Nepal with despatches to resume from 20 October via an alternative route. Delays may still occur as we clear any backlog, and deliveries will still be subject to local restrictions.
Update: 12 August 2020
Nepal Post has informed us that the government has further extended the suspension of incoming international flights until 31 August 2020, with a planned resumption from 1 September 2020. These measures will impact on postal services in general, and result in delivery delays. We will continue to accept traffic for Nepal awaiting flight resumption.
Update: 24 July 2020
Nepal Post has informed us that the Government lifted the partial nationwide lockdown on 22 July 2020, but is maintaining the suspension of incoming international flights until 16 August 2020. This will impact postal services and result in delivery delays.
Update: 30 June 2020
Mail despatches to Nepal will resume on Wednesday 1 July 2020, and we’ll prioritise the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Original incident: 27 March 2020
We're currently not sending items to Nepal as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you'll experience significant delays.
Incident 1
Start date: 16 March 2020
Latest Update: 29 December 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 29 December 2020
Royal Mail and Parcelforce services to Europe have been reopened and are now fully operational. For items posted today, customers should expect a delay up to 2 working days for some countries.
Update: 22 December 2020
Following the announcement from the French government to restrict air, road, ferry and train travel from the UK to France from midnight on December 20 for a period of 48 hours, Royal Mail has temporarily suspended all mail services to the Netherlands. This is a fast-moving situation and we're monitoring things on an hourly basis. We're working to keep as many international mail services running as possible given the current restrictions. Items already in the system will be processed as normal and prepared for dispatch. These items will be held securely until we're able to get them to their relevant destinations. We're keeping the situation under close and constant review.
Update: 2 December 2020
Post NL has advised that due to COVID-19 in the Netherlands, the country has been on partial lockdown since 14 October 2020. The restrictions set out in previous alerts with regards to item handover will continue to apply, and PostNL may not be able to ensure to meet all the normal delivery standards.
Update: 2 April 2020
Force Majeure has been declared by Post NL from 1 to 30 April 2020 due to Covid-19. Therefore, the agreed delivery timescales cannot be guaranteed, so some delivery delays are to be expected.
Original Incident: 16 March 2020
PostNL (the Netherlands postal carrier), has decided that, in accordance with the measures taken to minimize the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) and the guidelines of the government of the Netherlands, all letter-post, parcel-post requiring signature on delivery will, for health, safety and security reasons, not be signed by anymore at the point of handover to the recipient.
For these items, the postman will ask the recipient for the last three digits of the recipient’s ID and this information will be entered by the postmen in the signature field of their handheld devices.
Incident 2
Start date: 9 February 2021
Latest Update:
End date: Estimated: 20 February 2021
Incident: Heavy snow
Due to severe weather conditions the Netherlands (NL) has invoked short term Force Majeure from 8-19 February 2021. As a result, delays can be expected during this period, this is on top of any impact from local COVID restrictions previously declared - see Incident 1 above.
Start date: 22 June 2020
Latest Update: 12 April 2021
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 12 April 2021
New Caledonian Post has updated that the gradual lifting of lockdown measures will be complete on 11 April 2021. As a result, letter-post, parcel-post and EMS items requiring the addressee’s signature on delivery will once again be handed over against the addressee’s signature.
Update: 9 March 2021
New Caledonian Post has informed us that a strict lockdown has been declared from 9 March 2021 following the detection of COVID-19 infections. As a result, for all postal items requiring a signature on delivery, the signature of the addressee will be replaced by that of the post delivery person until further notice.
Update: 21 September 2020
Mail despatches to New Caledonia resume on 23 September 2020, and we’ll be prioritising the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Original Incident: 22 June 2020
We're currently not sending items to New Caledonia as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you'll experience significant delays.
Start date: 16 March 2020
Latest Update: 17 March 2021
End date: 12 March 2021
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 17 March 2021
The entire country has returned to Alert Level 1 of the national pandemic plan, with effect from 12 March 2021. Delays may still be experienced for a period while any possible backlog is cleared.
Update: 1 March 2021
The New Zealand Government has moved the Auckland region to national COVID-19 Alert Level 3 from Sunday 28 February, for seven days, subject to review. The rest of New Zealand has moved to COVID-19 Alert Level 2 for the same period.
Postal operations will continue but are subject to further restrictions. Contactless delivery without signature is set to continue and New Zealand Post cannot guarantee the service delivery on all mail types to the affected areas with postcode detailed.
Update: 25 February 2021
New Zealand Post has advised that Auckland has returned to Alert Level 1 of the national pandemic plan as with the rest of country. NZ Post is to maintain Alert Level 2 safety protocols in most of the Greater Auckland area, in order to protect staff and to keep their Office of Exchange, processing and delivery sites operating. Due to the restrictions, contactless delivery without signature is to continue, and NZ Post cannot guarantee service delivery levels on all mail types to the affected areas.
Update: 15 February 2021
New Zealand Post has updated that as a result of a confirmed community outbreak of COVID-19 in Auckland, the Government has moved the Auckland region to national COVID-19 Alert Level 3 from 00.00 (midnight) local time on Monday 15 February, provisionally until 23.59 on Wednesday 17 February 2021. The rest of New Zealand has moved to COVID-19 Alert Level 2 for the same period. Postal operation will continue, as was the case during the previous COVID-19 alerts, subject to restrictions. Contactless delivery and pick up processes will be in place, so no signatures taken on delivery. New Zealand Post can no longer guarantee service delivery standards and has invoked Force Majeure until further notice.
Update: 13 October 2020
The Government of New Zealand has moved the Auckland region down to Alert Level 1 of the national pandemic plan, meaning that all restrictions have been lifted.
However, the alternate route available to New Zealand is still in place - see below - and there may be delays to mail deliveries.
Update: 19 June 2020
There are no delays to letters and parcels leaving the UK for New Zealand. Throughout April and early May we experienced difficulties in accessing consistent air capacity to New Zealand. We now have regular flights via Los Angeles. However, this takes longer than usual, but is a reliable route.
We understand a backlog of traffic was held at Auckland Airport in recent weeks and also in Auckland’s processing centre. Therefore, some customers may experience considerable delays because of the increase in ecommerce volumes coming from the USA, UK and Australia.
This, along with the impact of social distancing being experienced by all logistics companies, may mean customers experience items being delivered out of sequence, so not all traffic is being processed and delivered in date order. This affects all mail, not just that from Royal Mail (UK).
Accordingly, delivery times in April and early May were lengthy, but in May as a whole we saw 50% of Tracked items being delivered in 15 days and a steady reduction in items awaiting clearance into the NZ Post domestic operation. This is a continuously improving situation and NZ Post are stating that once handed to their domestic network, they will deliver items in 5 days. For further updates, please visit the NZ Post website.
Update: 2 June 2020
New Zealand Post has accumulated significant backlogs of mail, particularly for North Island. Customers can expect significant delays while the backlogs are being cleared.
Update:6 April 2020
Mail despatches to New Zealand have resumed, and we’re prioritising the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Original Incident: 16 March 2020
We're currently not sending items to New Zealand as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you'll experience significant delays.
Start date: 22 June 2020
Latest Update:
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
We're currently not sending items to Nicaragua as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you'll experience significant delays.
Start date: 22 June 2020
Latest Update: 27 July 2020
End date: 28 July 2020
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 27 July 2020
Mail despatches to Niger will resume 28 July 2020. We’ll prioritise the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
We're currently not sending items to Niger as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you'll experience significant delays.
Start date: 23 April 2020
Latest Update: 29 April 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 29 April 2020
Mail despatches to Oman resume on Friday 1 May 2020, and we’ll prioritise the processing and shipment of mail held during the period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Original Incident: 23 April 2020
We're currently not sending items to Oman as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you'll experience significant delays.
Start date: 17 April 2020
Latest Update: 30 July 2020
End date:
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 30 July 2020
Pakistan Post has advised that the Pakistani government has implemented further measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19, including restrictions on transport and infrastructure. While we're still sending mail to Pakistan, these restrictions will lead to delivery delays in-country.
Update: 22 May 2020
Mail despatches to Pakistan resume on Sunday 24 May 2020, and we’ll prioritise the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Original Incident: 17 April 2020
We're currently not sending items to Pakistan as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you'll experience significant delays.
Start date: 16 September 2020
Latest Update: 5 January 2021
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 5 January 2021
Panama Post has advised us the government has introduced further measures to restrict movement in the provinces of Panamá and Panamá Oeste from 4 to 14 January 2021.
The post offices in these two provinces will remain closed and no inbound or outbound mail will be accepted for Panamá Oeste, Code 8 and Panamá Este, Code 17:
Panamá Oeste, Code 8:strong> 1001 (El Valle), 1003 (Arraiján), 1005 (Vista Alegre), 1007 (Capira), 1011 (Chame), 1013 (Bejuco), 1015 (La Chorrera), 1017 (San Carlos);
Panamá Este, Code 17: 0807 (Chepo), 0816 (Zona 5-Las Américas-Calidonia), 0818 (Zona 6- Bethania), 0819 (Zona 6a.-El Dorado), 0823 (Zona 7-Plaza Concordia), 0830 (Zona 9- San Francisco), 0832 (World Trade Center), 0833 (Plaza Panamá), 0834 (Zona 9a.-Carrasquilla), 0835 (Zona 10-Parque Lefevre), 0838 (Zona 12- Los Pueblos), 0843 (Balboa, Ancón), 0844 (Paraíso), 0847 (Chilibre), 0850 (Zona 15- Las Cumbres), 0857 (Zona 14- El Machetazo 24 de Dic.), 0860 (Villa Lucre).
Delivery delays are to be expected during this period for delivery in Panamá and Panamá Oeste. Offices in other regions are also working to reduced hours. Correos de Panamá is unable to guarantee service standards for all mail types with force majeure continues to apply until further notice.
Original Incident: 21 October 2020
Panama Post has advised the government has authorised the resumption of international flights from Monday 12 October. While processing offices and airport units are operating to normal hours, Panama Post is not able to guarantee service standards for inbound and outbound mail, and force majeure remains in place until further notice.
Start date: 24 March 2020
Latest Update:
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Papua New Guinea has put special measures in place from Monday 16 March, to limit the spread of Coronavirus. Post PNG need to comply with these measures and may have reduced staff numbers so not able to deliver all mail to specifications. Signature on delivery is suspended and delays to mail services can be expected.
Start date: 3 April 2020
Latest update: 4 December 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 4 December 2020
An alternative route for mail shipment to Paraguay has been found, despatches are to resume from Wednesday 9 December 2020. However, capacity is limited and due to local restrictions to prevent the spread of COVID-19, delays may still be evident.
Original Incident: 3 April
We're currently not sending items to Paraguay as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you'll experience significant delays.
Start date: 17 March 2020
Latest update: 6 April 2021
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 6 April 2021
Peruvian Post has updated that it is taking the necessary steps to re-establish service levels, and restore normal operations for all mail types nationally. Air transport is steadily recovering, allowing for the lifting of the Force Majeure previously declared, with respect to the acceptance and processing of international items. However, flights are still limited, so delays may still be experienced.
Update: 2 February 2021
Peruvian Post has advised the Peruvian Government has extended the national state of emergency until 14 February, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Various regions of Peru have been categorized according to different alert levels, and postal services will be affected throughout the country for all mail types. Force Majeure remains in place until further notice.
Update: 15 May 2020
Mail despatches to Peru resume on 19 May 2020, and we’ll prioritise the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Update: 24 April 2020
New transport links to Peru have proven unstable, so we're currently not shipping letters and parcels. Items posted will be held and you will experience significant delays.
Update: 17 April 2020
Mail despatches to Peru have resumed, and we’re prioritising the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Original Incident: 17 March 2020
We're currently not sending items to Peru as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you'll experience significant delays.
Start date: 17 March 2020
Latest Update: 1 May 2020 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 1 May 2020
Mail despatches to the Philippines have resumed. We’ll prioritise the processing and shipment of any remaining mail being held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus, and mail previously despatched by sea is still in transit.
Update: 23 April 2020
We're currently not able to send items by air to the Philippines due to a lack of air transport links and the country is not accessible by road. To ensure we maintain a level of service to this country, we'll send items by sea (including those which we are currently holding for despatch), and our revised delivery aims are currently 7 to 8 weeks. We're continually seeking new air links and will divert to an air service as soon as an appropriate service becomes available.
Original Incident:17 March 2020
We're currently not sending items to Phillipines as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you'll experience significant delays.
Start date: 16 March 2020
Latest Update: 22 March 2021
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 22 March 2021
Polish Post has updated that due to the current COVID-19 situation, the Polish Government has implemented a national lockdown until 9 April 2021, with effect from 20 March 2021. The processing and delivery of all mail types will be affected, and delivery standards cannot be guaranteed.
Update: 29 January 2021
Polish Post has advised the Polish Government has implemented a national quarantine throughout the country. The special measures aimed at slowing the spread of COVID-19 are still in force, and will continue to affect Polish Post services until further notice.
Update: 29 December 2020
Royal Mail and Parcelforce services to Europe have been reopened and are now fully operational. For items posted today, customers should expect a delay up to 2 working days for some countries.
Update: 22 December 2020
Following the announcement from the French government to restrict air, road, ferry and train travel from the UK to France from midnight on December 20 for a period of 48 hours, Royal Mail has temporarily suspended all mail services to Poland. This is a fast-moving situation and we're monitoring things on an hourly basis. We're working to keep as many international mail services running as possible given the current restrictions. Items already in the system will be processed as normal and prepared for dispatch. These items will be held securely until we're able to get them to their relevant destinations. We're keeping the situation under close and constant review.
Update: 2 November 2020
Polish Post has advised that the special measures aimed at slowing the spread of COVID-19 are still in force in Poland, and will continue to affect its services until further notice.
Original Incident: 16 March 2020
Poland has put special measures in place from Monday 16 March, to limit the spread of Coronavirus. Polska Post need to comply with these measures and may have reduced staff numbers so not able to deliver all mail to specifications. Signature on delivery is suspended and delays to mail services can be expected.
Incident 1
Start date: 5 January 2021
Latest update: 4 February 2021
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Customs Clearance
Items are leaving the UK on time and accepted in country. The implementation of new customs procedures in Portugal for UK traffic, the volume of items requiring customs checks, missing and/or partly or incorrectly completed customs declarations including electronic customs data are causing significant delays. The in country postal operator is urgently working to clear items as quickly as possible and to resume a normal service. Any non compliant customs declarations (e.g. no customs declaration or partly/incorrectly completed) will be returned to sender.
Incident 2
Start date: 23 March 2020
Latest Update: 15 February 2021
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 15 February 2021
Portugal Post has updated that the Portuguese Government has extended the general lockdown in place throughout Portugal at least until 1 March 2021. The authorities predict that this general lockdown will last until the end of March. Postal services continue to function but subject to restrictions, hence delays. Force Majeure continues to apply until further notice.
Update: 29 January 2021
Royal Mail vehicles bound for Portugal where held for a number of days for items sent from the beginning of the January. These have now resumed their onward journey.
Update: 20 January 2021
Portugal Post has updated that the Portuguese Government has extended and reinforced General lockdown to at least 30 January 2021, with further measures to be expected.
Postal services will continue to function but subject to restrictions, hence delays, with Force majeure continue to apply until further notice.
Update: 29 December 2020
Royal Mail and Parcelforce services to Europe have been reopened and are now fully operational. For items posted today, customers should expect a delay up to 2 working days for some countries.
Update: 22 December 2020
Following the announcement from the French government to restrict air, road, ferry and train travel from the UK to France from midnight on December 20 for a period of 48 hours, Royal Mail has temporarily suspended all mail services to Portugal. This is a fast-moving situation and we're monitoring things on an hourly basis. We're working to keep as many international mail services running as possible given the current restrictions. Items already in the system will be processed as normal and prepared for dispatch. These items will be held securely until we're able to get them to their relevant destinations. We're keeping the situation under close and constant review.
Update: 17 November 2020
Portugal Post has advised that the Portuguese Government has declared a new state of emergency from 9 November 2020, due to increasing COVID-19 infections, to be reassessed every two weeks. Postal services will continue to function, subject to restrictions such as staggered shift patterns and mandatory isolation and quarantine. As a result, Portugal Post will be operating with a reduced workforce. The processing and delivery of all mail types will be affected, Force Majeure remains in place until further notice.
Original Incident 16 March 2020
Portugal Post has put special measures in place from Monday 16 March, to limit the spread of Coronavirus. Portugal Post need to comply with these measures and may have reduced staff numbers so not able to deliver all mail to specifications. Signature on delivery is suspended and delays to mail services can be expected.
Start date: 23 July 2020
Latest Update: 2 August 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 2 August 2020
Mail despatches to the Republic of Guinea have resumed, and we’re prioritising the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Original Incident: 23 July 2020
We're currently not sending items to the Republic of Guinea as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you'll experience significant delays.
Latest update: 17 March 2020
Latest update: 10 December 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 10 December 2020
We've changed our Christmas latest recommended posting date from 18 December to 16 December to allow for the ongoing delays in the Republic of Ireland. Items continue to leave the UK on time.
Update: 2 December 2020
Items are leaving the UK on time. Processing and delivery are taking longer than normal in the Republic of Ireland as parcel deliveries have reached record volumes and COVID restrictions are in place. An Post are now operating a 7-day service. We recommend customers send earlier for Christmas than our published latest recommended posting date of 18 December.
Original Incident: 17 March 2020
An Post have advised they have suspended signature on delivery for inbound items. Delivery will be conducted via limited face-to-face methods with immediate effect.
Start date: 22 June 2020
Latest Update: 10 July
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Mail despatches to Reunion Island have resumed, and we’re prioritising the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Original Incident: 22 June We're currently not sending items to Reunion Island as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you'll experience significant delays.
Start date: 16 March 2020
Latest Update: 29 December 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 29 December 2020
Royal Mail and Parcelforce services to Europe have been reopened and are now fully operational. For items posted today, customers should expect a delay up to 2 working days for some countries.
Update: 22 December 2020
Following the announcement from the French government to restrict air, road, ferry and train travel from the UK to France from midnight on December 20 for a period of 48 hours, Royal Mail has temporarily suspended all mail services to Romania. This is a fast-moving situation and we're monitoring things on an hourly basis. We're working to keep as many international mail services running as possible given the current restrictions. Items already in the system will be processed as normal and prepared for dispatch. These items will be held securely until we're able to get them to their relevant destinations. We're keeping the situation under close and constant review.
Original Incident: 16 March 2020
Romania has put special measures in place from Monday 16 March, to limit the spread of Coronavirus. Post Romana need to comply with these measures and may have reduced staff numbers so not able to deliver all mail to specifications. Signature on delivery is suspended and delays to mail services can be expected.
Start date: 25 March 2020
Latest Update: 29 December 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 29 December 2020
Royal Mail and Parcelforce services to Europe have been reopened and are now fully operational. For items posted today, customers should expect a delay up to 2 working days for some countries.
Update: 22 December 2020
Following the announcement from the French government to restrict air, road, ferry and train travel from the UK to France from midnight on December 20 for a period of 48 hours, Royal Mail has temporarily suspended all mail services to Russia. This is a fast-moving situation and we're monitoring things on an hourly basis. We're working to keep as many international mail services running as possible given the current restrictions. Items already in the system will be processed as normal and prepared for dispatch. These items will be held securely until we're able to get them to their relevant destinations. We're keeping the situation under close and constant review.
Update: 2 April 2020
Mail despatches to Russia have resumed, and we’re prioritising the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Original Incident: 25 March 2020
We're currently not sending items to Russia as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you'll experience significant delays.
Start date: 25 March 2020
Latest Update: 20 May 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 20 May 2020
Mail despatches to Rwanda resume on Thursday 21 May 2020, and we’ll prioritise the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Original Incident: 25 March 2020
We're currently not sending items to Rwanda as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you'll experience significant delays.
Start date: 26 March 2020
Latest Update: 16 March 2021
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 16 March 2021
The Government of Samoa has extended the state of emergency until 14 April 2021. There is still only one cargo flight per week in which Samoa Post can send outbound mail and receive inbound mail. Furthermore, all inbound mail is subject to a three-days quarantine before being processed and delivered. As a result, Samoa Post has advised that delays are to be expected.
Update: 16 February 2021
The Samoan Government has extended the state of emergency until 13 March 2021. There is still only one cargo flight per week to Samoa for all mail services. All inbound mail is also subject to a seven-day quarantine before being processed and delivered. As a result, Samoa Post has advised delays are to be expected.
Update: 20 January 2021
The Samoan Government has extended the state of emergency until 17 February 2021. There is still only one cargo flight per week to Samoa for all mail services. Furthermore, all inbound mail is subject to a seven-day quarantine before being processed and delivered. As a result, Samoa Post has advised that delays are to be expected.
Update: 17 December 2020
Samoa Post have advised that the Government have extended the national state of emergency until 16 January 2021. Currently, there is only one cargo flight per week, upon which Samoa Post can despatch and receive mail, also all mail is being quarantined for seven days prior to being processed and delivered.
Update: 19 November 2020
Samoa Post have advised that the Government have extended the national state of emergency until 23 December 2020. Currently, there is only one cargo flight per week, upon which Samoa Post can despatch and receive mail, also all mail is being quarantined for seven days prior to being processed and delivered.
Update: 2 November 2020
Samoa Post have advised that the Government have extended the national state of emergency until 22 November 2020. Currently, there is only one cargo flight per week, upon which Samoa Post can despatch and receive mail, also all mail is being quarantined for seven days prior to being processed and delivered.
Update: 29 September 2020
The Government of Samoa has extended the national state of emergency until 26 October 2020. There is only one cargo flight per week from New Zealand on which mail can be sent to/from Samoa. Also, inbound mail to Samoa is subject to a seven-day quarantine before being processed and delivered. As a result, delays can be expected.
Update:15 May 2020
Mail despatches to Samoa will resume 17 May 2020. We’ll prioritise the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Original Incident:26 March 2020
We're currently not sending items to Samoa as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you'll experience significant delays.
Start date: 28 January 2020
Latest Update: 16 February 2021
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 16 February 2021
Saudi Post has informed us that, in accordance with the measures taken to minimize the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) all letter-post, parcel-post items requiring signature on delivery will provisionally be delivered to customers indirectly. Consequently, it will not be mandatory for Saudi Post to provide written proof of delivery and the delivery will be based on a code sent to the addressee’s mobile phone.
Update: 30 April 2020
The special measures implemented by Saudi Post to prevent the spread of Coronavirus remain in place, as a result delays to all mail will be evident.
Original Incident: 28 January 2020
Saudi Post has informed us that, in accordance with the measures taken to minimize the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) all letter-post, parcel-post items requiring signature on delivery will provisionally be delivered to customers indirectly. Consequently, it will not be mandatory for Saudi Post to provide written proof of delivery and the delivery will be based on a code sent to the addressee’s mobile phone.
Start date: 24 March 2020
Latest Update:
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Senegal has put special measures in place from 24 March, to limit the spread of Coronavirus. Senegal Poste need to comply with these measures and may have reduced staff numbers so not able to deliver all mail to specifications. Signature on delivery is suspended and delays to mail services can be expected.
Start date: 16 March 2020
Latest Update: 5 January 2021
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Latest Update: 5 January 2021
Serbia Post has advised that, following the lifting of the state of emergency in Serbia, the sorting and delivery of inbound international postal items returned to normal from 31 December 2020.
Route availability is still limited and there may be significant delays.
Original Incident: 16 March 2020
Serbia has put special measures in place from Monday 16 March, to limit the spread of Coronavirus. Serbia Post need to comply with these measures and may have reduced staff numbers so not able to deliver all mail to specifications. Signature on delivery is suspended and delays to mail services can be expected.
Start date: 22 June 2020
Latest Update: 11 September 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update 11 September 2020
Some mail has been held at the transit point and returned to the UK. They will be reprocessed and despatched via our alternative carrier. As a result, some mail may experience delays.
Update: 7 August 2020
Seychelles Post has advised that the International Airport has re-opened from 1 August for International flights. The schedule of international flights serving the Seychelles, is gradually increasing and Seychelles Post is able to accept all mail types. As flights may still be cancelled due to low levels of demand, force majeure previously declared will continue to apply until further notice.
Update: 22 July 2020
Mail despatches to the Seychelles have resumed, but flights are still irregular and severely restricted. Scanning of items may also be delayed due to reduced transportation between the islands of the Seychelles. Seychelles Postal Services has declared a Force Majeure situation until further notice.
Original Incident: 22 June 2020
We're currently not sending items to the Seychelles as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you'll experience significant delays.
Start date: 23 July 2020
Latest Update: 25 November 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 25 November 2020
A new, alternative route has been identified, so despatches of mail to Sierra Leone will resume from Thursday 26 November. Due to limited air capacity and in-country Coronavirus restrictions however, delays may still be evident.
Original Incident: 23 July 2020
We're currently not sending items to Sierra Leone as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you'll experience significant delays.
Start date: 11 March 2020
Latest Update: 4 May 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update 4 May
Mail despatches to Singapore have resumed as we have secured a new air solution. We’re prioritising the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of limited air capacity. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Update: 24 April 2020
We're accepting letters and parcels destined for Singapore, however, delays may be experienced as air connections have been severely limited. We're looking at alternative solutions to maintain service.
Start date: 16 March 2020
Latest Update: 18 March 2021
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: Friday 18 March
The Slovakian Government has extended the general lockdown in place throughout Slovakia by a further 40 days, with effect from 20 March 2021 until the end of April.
The processing and delivery of all mail types will continue to be affected, with force majeure situation remains in place until further notice.
Update: 8 February 2021
The Slovakian Government has extended the general lockdown in place throughout Slovakia until at least 19 March 2021. The processing and delivery of all mail will continue to be affected, with the force majeure situation remaining in place until further notice.
Update:25 January
The Slovakian Government has extended the general lockdown in place throughout Slovakia until at least 7 February 2021 with further measures expected by the end of the month. The processing and delivery of all mail types will continue to be affected, with the force majeure situation remaining in place until further notice.
Update: 6 January 2021
Slovakia Post has advised the Slovakian Government has extended the general lockdown in place throughout Slovakia until at least 24 January 2021. The processing and delivery of all mail types will continue to be affected, with force majeure remaining in place until further notice.
Slovakia Post will provide further update after review by the authorities.
Update: 29 December 2020
Royal Mail and Parcelforce services to Europe have been reopened and are now fully operational. For items posted today, customers should expect a delay up to 2 working days for some countries.
Update: 22 December 2020
Following the announcement from the French government to restrict air, road, ferry and train travel from the UK to France from midnight on December 20 for a period of 48 hours, Royal Mail has temporarily suspended all mail services to Slovakia. This is a fast-moving situation and we're monitoring things on an hourly basis. We're working to keep as many international mail services running as possible given the current restrictions. Items already in the system will be processed as normal and prepared for dispatch. These items will be held securely until we're able to get them to their relevant destinations. We're keeping the situation under close and constant review.
Update: 17 December 2020
Slovakia Post has advised that on 16 December 2020, the Slovakian Government announced a new lockdown, which will come into effect on 19 December and last until at least 10 January 2021. During the lockdown, postal services will operate with restrictions and reduced workforce. Addressee signatures will not be collected upon delivery. These measures will affect the processing and delivery of all mail types and Force Majeure is in place until further notice.
Update: 23 October 2020
Slovakia Post has advised that due to an increase in the number of COVID infections, the Slovakia Government has declared a partial lockdown across the whole country from 24 October 2020 for at least three weeks.
During the lockdown, postal services will operate with restrictions and reduction of the workforce. Addressee’s signature will not be collected upon delivery.
Original incident
Slovakia has put special measures in place from Monday 16 March, to limit the spread of Coronavirus. Slovenska Posta need to comply with these measures and may have reduced staff numbers so not able to deliver all mail to specifications. Signature on delivery is suspended and delays to mail services can be expected.
Start date: 17 March 2020
Latest Update: Monday 19 April
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: Monday 19 April
The Slovenian Government has extended the general lockdown in place throughout Slovenia by a further 30 days, until 17 April.
The processing and delivery of all mail types will continue to be affected, and the force majeure situation remains in place until further notice.
Update: 16 March 2021
The lockdown in Slovenia will be extended for 30 days from 18 March 2021. The postal operation will carry on in-line with Public Health measures, hence processing and deliveries will be affected for all mail types with force majeure remain in place.
Update: 15 January 2021
The Government of Slovenia is extending the formal declaration of epidemic for a further 60 days with effect from 17 January 2021. The processing and delivery of all mail types will be affected. Force Majeure remains in place.
Update: 29 December 2020
Royal Mail and Parcelforce services to Europe have been reopened and are now fully operational. For items posted today, customers should expect a delay up to 2 working days for some countries.
Update: 22 December 2020
Following the announcement from the French government to restrict air, road, ferry and train travel from the UK to France from midnight on December 20 for a period of 48 hours, Royal Mail has temporarily suspended all mail services to Slovenia. This is a fast-moving situation and we're monitoring things on an hourly basis. We're working to keep as many international mail services running as possible given the current restrictions. Items already in the system will be processed as normal and prepared for dispatch. These items will be held securely until we're able to get them to their relevant destinations. We're keeping the situation under close and constant review.
Update: 18 December 2020
Slovenia Post has advised the government has extended the lockdown for another 30 days from today. Processing and deliveries will be affected for all mail services, with force majeure remaining in effect.
Update: Wednesday 18 November
Slovenia Post has updated that the government has extended lockdown for another 30 days from today.
Processing and deliveries will be affected for all mail services, with force majeure remaining in effect.
Update: 21 October 2020
Slovenia Post has informed us that Slovenia has been hit with a second wave of Coronavirus. The Slovenian government has declared a 30 day state of emergency from 19 October 2020 for the entire country, with wide ranging restrictions, curfews and a ban on movements between some regions.
As a result, the quality of service for all mail types cannot be guaranteed. The impact is expected to last until the end of the pandemic with force majeure being invoked again until further notice.
Update: 4 June 2020
Postal Services in Slovenia are now returning to normal, with signatures now being taken on delivery. Some restrictions are still in place, and flight capacity is still limited, so some delays may continue to be experienced.
Update: 19 March 2020
Non-contact delivery has commenced on signature required items from Monday 16 March 2020, and will be performed until further notice.
Original Incident: 17 March 2020
Slovenia Post has advised that after the government’s official declaration of COVID-19 as an epidemic, all residents have been asked to stay at home and keep their social contacts and movement within the country to a minimum. This measure affects the ability of Slovenia Post to keep their sorting and delivery operations functioning. As a result, deliveries will be affected for all mail types (EMS, parcel post and letter post) and this is expected to remain the case until the end of the epidemic.
No service since October 1991.
Start date: 27 March 2020
Latest update: 23 February 2021
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 23 February 2021
The South African Post Office (SAPO) has advised the countrywide level 3 lockdown relating to the COVID-19 pandemic has been extended until 15 March 2021. SAPO will continue to receive inbound mail for delivery, but it will not be possible for them to meet delivery standards for all mail types. Force Majeure remains in place until 15 March 21, subject to review.
Update: 12 January 2021
The South African Post Office has updated that the countrywide level 3 lockdown relating to the COVID-19 pandemic has been extended until 15 February 2021. SAPO will continue to receive inbound mail for delivery, but it will not be possible to meet delivery standards for all mail types. Force Majeure remains in place until 15 Feb 21.
Update: 5 January 2021
South African Post has updated that the lockdown relating to the COVID-19 pandemic has been amended to level 3 'countrywide' until 15 January 2021. South African Post will continue to receive inbound mail for delivery, but will not be able to meet delivery standards for all mail types, with Force Majeure in place until 15 Jan 21 subject to review.
Update: 10 December 2020
South African Post has advised that international inbound postal operations are now running as normal. Outbound services to certain countries have resumed where flights are available. However, route availability is still limited, local restrictions and possible backlogs mean delays may still be observed.
Update: 15 May 2020
Mail despatches to South Africa resume on Sunday 17 May 2020, and we’ll prioritise the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Original Incident: 27 March 2020
We're currently not sending items to South Africa as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you'll experience significant delays.
Start date: 18 March 2020
Latest Update: 20 January 2021
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 20 January 2021
Korea Post has informed us that all postal operations are back to normal from 18 January 2021, while signatures are still not being collected at delivery as previously notified.
Update: 6 January 2021
South Korea Post has updated that several cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed among the workforce at the Seoul office of exchange. Staff shortages are expected over the coming weeks, this will lead to significant delays in the processing and delivery of all mail items.
Update: 11 May 2020
South Korea has put special measures in place from Monday 11 May, to limit the spread of Coronavirus. Korea Post need to comply and is also likely to have a reduced workforce available, and not be able to deliver all mail to specifications. Signature on delivery is suspended and delays to mail services can be expected.
Update: 6 April 2020
Mail despatches to South Korea have resumed, and we’re prioritising the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Original Incident: 18 March 2020
We're currently not sending items to South Korea as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you'll experience significant delays.
Start date: 16 March 2020
Latest Update: 29 December 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 29 December 2020
Royal Mail and Parcelforce services to Europe have been reopened and are now fully operational. For items posted today, customers should expect a delay up to 2 working days for some countries.
Update: 22 December 2020
Following the announcement from the French government to restrict air, road, ferry and train travel from the UK to France from midnight on December 20 for a period of 48 hours, Royal Mail has temporarily suspended all mail services to Spain. This is a fast-moving situation and we're monitoring things on an hourly basis. We're working to keep as many international mail services running as possible given the current restrictions. Items already in the system will be processed as normal and prepared for dispatch. These items will be held securely until we're able to get them to their relevant destinations. We're keeping the situation under close and constant review.
Update: 25 November 2020
Correos Spain has advised that on 29 October 2020, the Spanish Government extended the state of emergency first declared on 14 March 2020, until 9 May 2021. This could be further extended subject to review by the authorities. Due to the ongoing crisis, the continuing capacity and frequency problems with international flights, Force Majeure remains in force, and continues to impact mail processing and delivery.
Update: 2 September 2020
Correos, has advised they continue to experience problems with capacity, frequency and regularity of international flights due to the current COVID-19 situation. The force majeure situation previously declared remains in force, which continues to have a major impact on operations. As a result, we cannot guarantee the quality of service for all inbound and outbound mail until further notice.
Update 25 March 2020
The status of Alert in Spain and Spanish territories is extended to 11 April 2020. Also, international flights have been suspended with dispatches temporarily moved to road services to maintain mail flow but this will result in extended transit times.
Original Incident: 16 March 2020
Correos, the Spanish postal operators, has implemented special measures in order to reduce the risk of the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). Customers should expect delays and also reduced tracking and signature capture. Correos will be applying strict ad-hoc measures in line with government instructions in order to minimise human contact. Correos has also significantly reduced the workforce deployed in the logistics chain, with regard to both sorting and delivery.
Start date: 24 March 2020
Latest Update: 12 March 2021
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 12 March 2021
Sri Lanka Post has updated that the restrictions imposed on postal operations as a result of the spread of COVID-19, have been lifted with effect from 8 March 2021. Force Majeure has now ended and postal operations returned to normal.
Update: 10 November 2020
Sri Lanka Post has advised that due to a second-wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, new measures aiming to prevent further spread of the virus have been implemented in Sri Lanka. These will continue to impact on delivery standards for all mail types. While all inbound items will be processed and delivered, they are subject to restrictions, and as result the Sri Lanka Post is not able to guarantee meeting quality standards. International airports remain closed to all regular passenger flights, Force Majeure is in place.
Update: 7 May 2020
Mail despatches to Sri Lanka will resume on Sunday 10 May 2020, and we’ll prioritise the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Oringal incident:We're currently not sending items to Sri Lanka as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you'll experience significant delays.
Start date: 27 March 2020
Latest Update: 7 May 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 7 May 2020
Mail despatches to St. Kitts and Nevis will resume on Sunday 10 May 2020, and we’ll prioritise the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Update: 24 April 2020
New transport links to St. Kitts and Nevis have proven unstable, so we're currently not shipping letters and parcels. Items posted will be held and you will experience significant delays.
Update: 17 April 2020
Mail despatches to St. Kitts and Nevis have resumed, and we’re prioritising the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Original Incident: 27 March 2020
We're currently not sending items to St. Kitts and Nevis as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you will experience significant delays.
Start date: 27 March 2020
Latest Update: 7 May 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 7 May 2020
Mail despatches to St. Lucia will resume on Sunday 10 May 2020, and we’ll prioritise the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Update: 24 April 2020
New transport links to St. Lucia have proven unstable, so we're currently not shipping letters and parcels. Items posted will be held and you will experience significant delays.
Update: 17 April 2020
Mail despatches to St. Lucia have resumed, and we’re prioritising the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Original Incident: 27 March 2020
We're currently not sending items to St. Lucia as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you will experience significant delays.
St. Vincent and the Grenadines
Incident 1
Start date: 13 April 2021
Latest Update:
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Volcanic Eruption
The Saint Vincent Post Office has informed us that the country is currently under a national emergency following the eruption of the La Soufrière volcano. An evacuation order was issued by the Prime Minister for people in areas near the volcano (red zone). All postal staff are reported to be safe, but this emergency will likely impact the processing and delivery of mail coming into the country.
Incident 2
Start date: 27 March 2020
Latest Update: 10 December 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 10 December 2020
With the last posting date of 10 December for destinations in the Caribbean, air transport links are extremely limited resulting in the cancelling of our planned flights. As a result, we're now sending mail and parcels bound for St. Vincent and the Grenadines by ship, so there's a risk some items may not arrive before Christmas.
Update: 7 May 2020
Mail despatches to St. Vincent will resume on Sunday 10 May 2020, and we’ll prioritise the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Update: 24 April 2020
New transport links to St. Vincent and the Grenadines have proven unstable, so we're currently not shipping letters and parcels. Items posted will be held and you will experience significant delays.
Update: 17 April 2020
Mail despatches to St. Vincent and the Grenadines have resumed, and we’re prioritising the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Original Incident: 27 March 2020
We're currently not sending items to St. Vincent and the Grenadines as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you will experience significant delays.
Start date: 4 June 2020
Latest Update: 2 February 2021
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 2 February 2021
Suriname Post has advised that due to increasing numbers of COVID-19 infections, the Government has decided the borders will be open for cargo transport only (and therefore closed to passengers) from 1 January 2021. Delays are to be expected in the processing and delivery of all mail types, and Suriname Post will not be able to provide proof of delivery for all items requiring a signature.
Original Incident: 4 June 2020
Suriname has put special measures in place to limit the spread of Coronavirus. Surpost need to comply with these measures and may have reduced staff numbers so not able to deliver all mail to specifications. Signature on delivery is suspended and delays to mail services can be expected.
Incident 1
Start date: 22 December 2020
Latest Update: 29 December 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 29 December 2020
Royal Mail and Parcelforce services to Europe have been reopened and are now fully operational. For items posted today, customers should expect a delay up to 2 working days for some countries.
Original Incident: 22 December 2020
Following the announcement from the French government to restrict air, road, ferry and train travel from the UK to France from midnight on December 20 for a period of 48 hours, Royal Mail has temporarily suspended all mail services to Sweden. This is a fast-moving situation and we're monitoring things on an hourly basis. We're working to keep as many international mail services running as possible given the current restrictions. Items already in the system will be processed as normal and prepared for dispatch. These items will be held securely until we're able to get them to their relevant destinations. We're keeping the situation under close and constant review.
Incident 2
Start date: 5 January 2021
Latest update: 4 February 2021
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Customs Clearance
Items are leaving the UK on time and accepted in country. The implementation of new customs procedures in Sweden for UK traffic, the volume of items requiring customs checks, missing and/or partly or incorrectly completed customs declarations including electronic customs data are causing some delays. The in country postal operator is urgently working to clear items as quickly as possible and to resume a normal service. Any non compliant customs declarations (e.g. no customs declaration or partly /incorrectly completed) will be returned to sender.
Start date: 25 March 2020
Latest Update: 29 December 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 29 December 2020
Royal Mail and Parcelforce services to Europe have been reopened and are now fully operational. For items posted today, customers should expect a delay up to 2 working days for some countries.
Update: 22 December 2020
Following the announcement from the French government to restrict air, road, ferry and train travel from the UK to France from midnight on December 20 for a period of 48 hours, Royal Mail has temporarily suspended all mail services to Switzerland. This is a fast-moving situation and we're monitoring things on an hourly basis. We're working to keep as many international mail services running as possible given the current restrictions. Items already in the system will be processed as normal and prepared for dispatch. These items will be held securely until we're able to get them to their relevant destinations. We're keeping the situation under close and constant review.
Original Incident: 25 March 2020
Switzerland has put special measures in place to limit the spread of Coronavirus. La Poste Suisse need to comply with these measures and may have reduced staff numbers so not able to deliver all mail to specifications. Signature on delivery is suspended and delays to mail services can be expected..
No service since December 2012.
Start date: 10 March 2020
Latest update: 30 April 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 30 April 2020
Mail despatches to Taiwan have resumed. We’ll prioritise the processing and shipment of any remaining mail being held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus, and mail previously despatched by sea is still in transit.
Update: 23 April 2020
We're currently not able to send items by air to Taiwan due to a lack of air transport links and the country is not accessible by road. To ensure we maintain a level of service to this country, we'll send items by sea (including those which we are currently holding for despatch), and our revised delivery aims are currently 6 to 7 weeks. We're continually seeking new air links and will divert to an air service as soon as an appropriate service becomes available.
Original Incident: 10 March 2020
We're currently not sending items to Taiwan as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you'll experience significant delays.
Start date: 22 May 2020
Latest update:
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
The government of Tajikistan has put special measures in place from Friday 22 May 2020, to limit the spread of Coronavirus. Tajikistan Post need to comply, and are also likely to have a reduced workforce available, and not be able to deliver all mail to specifications. Signature on delivery is suspended and delays to mail services can be expected.
Start date: 25 December 2020
Latest update: 17 March 2021
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Udpate: 17 March 2021
The Government of Thailand has declared a state of emergency for the whole country, and especially in five provinces of: Samut Sakhon, Bangkok, Nonthaburi, Pathum Thani and Samut Prakan. Public health measures and restrictions in place are affecting postal operations. A situation of force majeure is invoked with processing & delivery delay expected until circumstances return to normal.
Update: 4 February 2021
Thailand Post has updated that while Samut Sakhon province is still categorized as a red zone (maximum control), normal processing and delivery of mail has now resumed, subject to any local restrictions. The Force Majeure case opened on 25 December 2020, is now closed with effect from 3 February 2021.
Original Incident: 25 December 2020
Thailand Post has informed that from 25 Dec 20, the Thai Government has declared COVID special measures, placing areas in one of four categories depending on the level of severity.
Samut Sakhon province (Zip code 74XXX) has been locked-down and declared a 'maximum control zone'. Accessibility to affected areas is limited, hence delays are to be expected in handling and delivery for all mail types in this area. Signature upon delivery may also be suspended and Thailand Post is unable to guarantee quality standards until further notice.
Start date: 3 April 2020
Latest update: 4 June 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 4 June 2020
Togo has put special measures in place to limit the spread of Coronavirus. La Poste du Togo need to comply with these measures and may have reduced staff numbers so not able to deliver all mail to specifications. Signature on delivery is suspended and delays to mail services can be expected.
Update: 20 May 2020
Mail despatches to Togo resume on Thursday 21 May 2020, and we’ll prioritise the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Original Incident: 3 April 2020
We're currently not sending items to Togo as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you'll experience significant delays.
Start date: 16 March 2020
Latest update:
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Tonga has put special measures in place from Monday 16 March, to limit the spread of Coronavirus. Tonga Post need to comply with these measures and may have reduced staff numbers so not able to deliver all mail to specifications. Signature on delivery is suspended and delays to mail services can be expected.
Start date: 6 August 2020
Latest update:
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Trinidad & Tobago have put special measures in place to limit the spread of Coronavirus. Trinidad & Tobago Post need to comply and is also likely to have a reduced workforce available, and not be able to deliver all mail to specifications. Delays for international inbound and outbound services will be evident and Force Majeure has been declared for all mail types.
Start date: 16 March 2019
Latest update: 22 December 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 21 December 2020
Update: 22 December 2020
We've secured new air access to Turkey, so are processing and despatching all mail types as normal.
Update: 21 December 2020
Turkey has cancelled flights to and from the UK. It's unclear how long these disruptions will remain in place, we'll update this site as soon as we've more information.
Original Incident: 16 March 2020
Turkey has put special measures in place from Monday 16 March, to limit the spread of Coronavirus. Turkey Post need to comply with these measures and may have reduced staff numbers so not able to deliver all mail to specifications. Signature on delivery is suspended and delays to mail services can be expected.
Start date: 23 April 2019
Latest update: 8 February 2021
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 8 February 2021
Turkmenpost has advised, the Force Majeure declared on 18 March 2020 is now closed, with postal operations resumed. Despatches of mail are to resume via alternative routing from 9 Feb 2021, while delivery will still be subject to any local restrictions and limited flight availability.
Original Incident: 23 April 2021
We're currently not sending items to Turkmenistan as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you'll experience significant delays.
Start date: 30 April 2019
Latest update:
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Uganda has put special quarantine measures in place against Coronavirus. As a result, Posta Uganda may not be able to deliver mail to specifications, with signatures on delivery suspended in order to prevent spread of the infection. Delays to mail services can be expected.
Start date: 27 March 2019
Latest update: 6 April 2019
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 6 April 2020
Mail despatches to the UAE have resumed, and we’re prioritising the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Original Incident: 27 March 2020
We're currently not sending items to the UAE as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you'll experience significant delays.
Start date: 27 March 2020
Latest update: 29 December 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 29 December 2020
Royal Mail and Parcelforce services to Europe have been reopened and are now fully operational. For items posted today, customers should expect a delay up to 2 working days for some countries.
Update: 22 December 2020
Following the announcement from the French government to restrict air, road, ferry and train travel from the UK to France from midnight on December 20 for a period of 48 hours, Royal Mail has temporarily suspended all mail services to Ukraine. This is a fast-moving situation and we're monitoring things on an hourly basis. We're working to keep as many international mail services running as possible given the current restrictions. Items already in the system will be processed as normal and prepared for dispatch. These items will be held securely until we're able to get them to their relevant destinations. We're keeping the situation under close and constant review.
Update: 2 April 2020
Mail despatches to Ukraine have resumed, and we’re prioritising the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Original Incident: 27 March 2020
We're currently not sending items to Ukraine as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you'll experience significant delays.
Ukraine - Crimea & Sevastopol Regions - On Long-Term Suspension
Start date: 19 February 2014
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Mail services suspended
Mail despatches to Donets 83-87, Luhansk 91-94 Crimea 95-98 and Sevestapol 99 are suspended until further notice.
Start date: 16 March 2020
Latest update:
End date: Ongoing
Incident:Coronavirus
Uruguay has put special measures in place from Monday 16 March, to limit the spread of Coronavirus. Correo Uruguay need to comply with these measures and may have reduced staff numbers so not able to deliver all mail to specifications. Signature on delivery is suspended and delays to mail services can be expected.
Start date: 11 March 2020
Latest Update: 19 June 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 19 June 2020
Our air transit routes into the USA are now working well, and we’re flying items daily from the UK. We’re using multiple points of entry on the East and West coast, as well as Miami and Chicago to access the United States Postal Service (USPS) domestic operation.
The USA, like many places around the world is receiving huge mail volumes and has been affected in the same was as all logistics operations with reduced staffing and social distancing requirements which reduce efficiency.
We’re monitoring the movement of mail though all US entry points, and have opted to move some traffic from those where delays are more evident. For further updates, please visit the USPS website.
Update: 11 June 2020 - Chicago Gateway (see below)
Update: 2 June 2020
Mail and parcels are being moved around the USA and managed through many international mail centres across the country. This is outside of the normal operating procedures, and is so the United States Postal Service (USPS) can manage the very high volumes.
- Los Angeles - is processing 50% more than they do in Christmas peak period, and are experiencing significant delays.
- JFK (New York) & Miami - is up to date and processing normally.
- San Fransisco - is handling heavy volumes and have moved international work to domestic mail centres outside of the normal International Mail Centres to cope with high volumes. Customers should expect delays.
- Chicago - Significant delays are still being seen through the Chicago gateway. We're diverting traffic away from this gateway in consultation with United States Postal Service.
Customers should expect delays across the USA, some are significant as USPS continues to deal with heavy increases in volumes.
Update: 14 April
The USA has introduced special quarantine measures against Coronavirus. As a result, USPS may not be able to deliver mail to specifications, signatures on delivery may be suspended in order to prevent spread of the infection. Delays to mail services can be expected.
Update: 18 March 2020
At the weekend, the US travel ban for passengers from EU countries was extended to include the UK and Ireland. This relates to people, rather than goods. Royal Mail’s International services to the USA remain operational. We continue to accept and process traffic for the USA. Some delays are to be expected due to restrictions on movement to minimise the spread of the virus.
Original Incident: 11 March 2020
We continue to operate a normal service to the USA following the announcement on 11 March by Donald Trump. We will be continuing to monitor the situation and will advise of any changes immediately that impact our service to the USA.
Start date: 23 April 2020
Latest update: 15 May 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Coronavirus
Update: 15 May 2020
Mail despatches to Uzbekistan resume on 16 May 2020, and we’ll prioritise the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Original Incident: We're currently not sending items to Uzbekistan as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you'll experience significant delays.
Start date: 17 April 2020
Latest update: 28 January 2021
End date: Estimated: 30 June 2021
Incident:Coronavirus
Update: 28 January 2021
Vanuatu Post has advised the Government has extended the state of emergency until 30 June 2021. International borders remain closed, but cargo flights can still operate. As result, Vanuatu Post can no longer guarantee to meet delivery standards until further notice.
Update: 21 May 2020
Mail despatches to Vanuatu resume on Saturday 23 May 2020, and we’ll prioritise the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Original Incident: 17 April 2020
We're currently not sending items to Vanuatu as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you'll experience significant delays.
Venezuela - Long-term Suspension
Start date: 4 July 2017
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Mail services suspended
We're currently not sending items to Venezuela as the 'in-country' postal service have suspended operations until further notice. Items sent will be held and you'll experience significant delays.
Start date: 16 March 2020
Latest update: 29 January 2021
End date: Ongoing
Incident:Coronavirus
Update: 29 January 2021
VNPost, has updated that due to a significant number of new COVID-19 infections, the government has extended and reinforced measures to minimize the spread infection from 26 January 2021. VNPost will continue to provide postal services, but with a reduced workforce, and subject to the new restrictions and safety guidelines. As a result, processing and delivery of all mail types are affected with Force Majeure previously declared remaining in place.
Update: 12 January 2021
VN Post has updated that the COVID-19 situation in Vietnam has now improved sufficiently for postal services to be provided as normal, while following respective delivery standards to help prevent spread of the virus.
Original Incident: 16 March 2020
Vietnam has put special measures in place from Monday 16 March, to limit the spread of Coronavirus. Vietnam Post need to comply with these measures and may have reduced staff numbers so not able to deliver all mail to specifications. Signature on delivery is suspended and delays to mail services can be expected.
No service since March 2015.
End date: Ongoing
Incident: Mail services suspended
Start date: 28 April 2020
Latest update: 17 June 2020
End date: Ongoing
Incident:Coronavirus
Update: 17 June 2020
Mail despatches to Zambia resume on Thursday 18 June 2020, and we’re prioritising the processing and shipment of mail held during the recent period of suspension. Delays will still be evident as in-country restrictions remain in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Original Incident: 28 April 2020
We're currently not sending items to Zambia as there are no available transport links. Items sent will be held and you'll experience significant delays.