Getting More Out of An Post
Whether you post a few letters a year or run a business shipping dozens of parcels a week, there are smart habits and lesser-known features that can save you money, time, and hassle. Here are ten practical tips for making the most of An Post services.
1. Always Weigh & Measure Before You Post
One of the most common (and costly) mistakes is underpaying on postage. An item that looks like a standard letter may actually be a Large Letter due to its thickness or weight. Use a postal scale at home or bring your item to the post office to be weighed accurately before purchasing postage.
2. Use the An Post Postage Calculator
Before heading to the post office or ordering online, use the free postage calculator on anpost.com. Enter the weight, dimensions, and destination to get an exact price. This helps you buy the right amount of postage the first time.
3. Buy Stamps in Books, Not Singles
Buying a book of stamps (typically 10 or 20) means you always have postage on hand and avoid unnecessary trips to the post office. Stamps don't expire, so there's no risk to stocking up.
4. Use Click & Post for Parcels
An Post's Click & Post service (available on anpost.com) lets you pay for parcel postage online and print your own label at home. This saves time at the counter — just drop off the pre-labelled parcel at any post office. It also gives you a digital record of the postage paid.
5. Download the An Post App
The free An Post app (iOS and Android) lets you track multiple parcels, receive delivery alerts, and manage missed deliveries — all from your phone. It's particularly useful if you do a lot of online shopping.
6. Redirect or Hold Mail When Away
If you're moving house or going on an extended trip, An Post offers a Mail Redirection service. Your post is automatically forwarded to a new address for a set period. This prevents missed bills, bank statements, and important correspondence.
7. Use CollectPoints to Avoid Missed Deliveries
If you're regularly not home during delivery hours, consider using an An Post CollectPoint parcel locker as your delivery address. Lockers are located at convenient spots like Tesco stores and petrol stations, and you collect at a time that suits you using a unique access code.
8. Send Sensitive Items by Registered Post
Never send cash, legal documents, or valuable items by standard post. Registered Post costs a little more but provides full tracking and a signature on delivery — giving you proof the item arrived safely. This can be invaluable in disputes.
9. Plan Ahead for Christmas & Bank Holidays
An Post publishes last posting dates for Christmas and other peak periods on its website. Missing these deadlines means your cards or gifts may arrive late. Check anpost.com in November for the updated Christmas schedule each year.
10. Ask About Business Rates If You Post Regularly
Even if you're a sole trader or small business, you may qualify for An Post business rates if you post regularly. A business account can bring volume discounts and simplified invoicing. Contact An Post's business team to find out if it makes sense for your needs.
Summary
A little preparation goes a long way with postal services. By weighing items correctly, using online tools, and choosing the right service for each job, you'll avoid overpaying, prevent delays, and ensure your items arrive safely every time.