How to Redirect Post When Moving House

Even if you update your address with everyone you can think of, some mail will still find its way to your old place. Royal Mail’s redirection service acts as a safety net, catching anything that slips through and sending it on to you.

At a glance

• You can redirect your post online or in person at a Post Office branch
• It costs from £33.99 for three months, depending on duration and number of people
• Apply at least five working days before your move,  earlier is better
• The service covers UK letters only, not parcels or international post

Why redirecting your mail matters

Missing a bank letter or a bill is annoying. Missing a letter containing personal details sent to an address you no longer live at is a bigger problem. Uncollected post at an old address can be a route to identity theft, so getting a redirection in place before you move is well worth the small upfront cost.

It also buys you time. You won’t be able to update every sender before moving day, and some (like HMRC or your pension provider) can be slow to process address changes. Redirection keeps things covered while you work through the list.

How to redirect your post with Royal Mail

You can apply online or in person. Both are straightforward.

Applying online Head to the Royal Mail website and navigate to the redirection service. You’ll need to create an account if you don’t have one already. From there:

• Add the details of everyone whose post needs redirecting, including names, dates of birth, and your current address
• Choose how long you want the redirection to run: three, six, or 12 months
• Enter your new address
• Pay by debit or credit card

Applying in branch If you’d rather do it in person, pop into your local Post Office and ask for a redirection application form. Fill it in, bring proof of your current address, and pay at the counter. Simple.

How much does it cost?

You can redirect your mail to any UK or overseas address for 3, 6 or 12 months from just £45.00. The exact price depends on the duration and the number of people included in the application.

Prices correct as of May 2026. Check Royal Mail’s website for the latest rates before you apply.

Business redirection and international options are available at different rates. If you are in receipt of Universal Credit or Pension Credit, you can apply for the Concession Redirection service where prices start from £22.50.

When should I apply?

Royal Mail recommends applying at least five working days before your move date. That said, the earlier the better. If you can sort it a couple of weeks ahead, do it. It gives Royal Mail time to process the application and means you’re not scrambling in the final few days before moving day.

Updating your address permanently

While redirection is a great temporary solution, you’ll eventually need to notify organisations of your new address directly. This includes banks, utilities, HMRC, your GP, the DVLA, and any subscriptions.

• Create a checklist of essential contacts to update.
• Use online change-of-address forms where possible.
• Set calendar reminders to follow up on updates that require extra steps, like ID changes.

Some services even let you set up an online account to manage your address details, making future updates easier in case you move again.

What redirection does not cover

The service covers standard UK letters. It does not cover:

• Parcels or signed-for deliveries
• International post sent from abroad
• Unaddressed mail, like leaflets or catalogues

For parcels, you’ll need to update your address directly with the sender or retailer. For anything coming from overseas, contact the sender to let them know your new address separately.

Pro tips for a smooth transition

• Use it as a backup, not a replacement. Redirection is a safety net. Still update your address with banks, utilities, your GP, HMRC, and any subscriptions before you move.
• Set a reminder before it expires. If you need more time, extend the redirection before it runs out rather than scrambling after the fact.
• Check all names are included. If you share a home, make sure everyone’s post is covered in the same application.
• Keep your confirmation handy. If any post goes missing during the redirection period, you’ll want your reference number to query it with Royal Mail.

What about your contents insurance?

While you’re ticking things off your moving checklist, it’s worth making sure your contents insurance is updated too. Your belongings need to be covered at your new address from the moment you move in, not just your old one.

Lemonade offers straightforward contents insurance for renters, and switching your address or getting a new quote takes minutes online.

Before we go

Redirecting your post is one of those simple admin tasks that makes a real difference when you’re moving. It takes minutes to set up, costs less than most people expect, and gives you breathing room to update everyone properly without the worry of missing something important. Sort it early, use it alongside updating your address directly, and you’ll be well covered.

Post redirection FAQs