02 Nov Stephen Metcalfe MP Encourages Constituents to Use Up their Old Stamps!
Stephen Metcalfe, MP for South Basildon & East Thurrock, is drawing attention to the phasing out of non-barcoded stamps. The Royal Mail has announced that, from 1 February 2023, barcoded stamps will be the only type of stamps valid for postage.
The Royal Mail is phasing out non-barcoded stamps. This was announced at the start of 2022 to digitise and streamline postage and is not connected to the passing of Queen Elizabeth II.
Stephen is encouraging the people of Basildon and Thurrock to use up their non-barcoded stamps before the deadline on 31 January 2023. Christmas would be the perfect time to use them when sending Christmas cards and parcels to family and friends.
It is important to note, however, that customers who are unable to use up their stock of non-barcoded stamps, of all values, may exchange them for the equivalent in barcoded stamps. There is currently no end date for when customers can swap their stamps – so this option can be accessed after 31 January. They can be sent, with a completed form, to Royal Mail using its Freepost address. There is no charge to exchange unused stamps.
Swap forms can be accessed online at www.royalmail.com/barcodedstamps where a form can be printed or requested. A form can also be requested by contacting Royal Mail’s Customer Experience team (03457 740740) which will be posted to the customer. There are also more than 1,200 Customer Service Points at delivery offices where the forms can be found.
It is also important to note that Special Stamps – those that are issued to commemorate special occasions or to celebrate British achievement – will not be barcoded and remain valid for use. Non-barcoded Christmas stamps also remain valid for use throughout the year. These stamps cannot be exchanged.
Stephen Metcalfe said: “There is a lot going on at the moment but do not forget to use up or swap out your old Royal Mail stamps. I will be using mine this Christmas”.
