Royal Mail's 2026 postage rates take effect from 7 April 2026. From that date all UK franking machines must use the new prices, and Mailmark franking machines can save up to 13.33% compared with stamp prices on many letter formats. The full First and Second Class rates are listed in the tables below.
Franking Ink can now provide you with the latest Royal Mail postage rates 2026 that are effective from 7th April 2026. As of 7th April 2026, all franking machines in the UK will have to start using the latest Royal Mail 2026 postage rates. If you do not know how to update your franking machine or postal scales, or need assistance in doing so, please contact your franking machine supplier immediately, as the new Royal Mail 2026 rates should be installed on your franking machine. You can also read Royal Mail's guidance on franking machines and Mailmark.
Postage rates 2026 announced
Starting from 7th April 2026, UK Mailmark franking machines can benefit from the new rates. Franking Ink can confirm that up to 13.33% can be saved when sending mail via a Mailmark franking machine.
Royal Mail First Class postage rates 2026
Franking Ink can confirm the latest First Class postage rates for 2026 in the table below. Compare stamp and Mailmark prices below.
| 1st Class Postage Rates | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | Weight up to and including | Stamp Prices | Mailmark™ Prices |
| Letter | 0-100g | £1.80 | £1.77 |
| Large Letter | 0-100g | £3.30 | £2.86 |
| 101-250g | £3.60 | £3.28 | |
| 251-500g | £3.60 | £3.30 | |
| 501-750g | £3.60 | £3.30 | |
| Small Parcel | 0-1kg | £5.45 | £5.45 |
| 1-2kg | £5.45 | £5.45 | |
| Medium Parcel | 0-1kg | £8.05 | £8.05 |
| 1-2kg | £8.05 | £8.05 | |
| 2-5kg | £10.05 | £10.05 | |
| 5-10kg | £10.05 | £10.05 | |
| 10-20kg | £15.45 | £15.45 | |
Royal Mail Second Class postage rates 2026
Franking Ink can confirm the latest Second Class postage rates for 2026 in the table below. Compare stamp and Mailmark prices below.
| 2nd Class Postage Rates | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | Weight up to and including | Stamp Prices | Mailmark™ Prices |
| Letter | 0-100g | 91p | 88p |
| Large Letter | 0-100g | £1.55 | £1.52 |
| 101-250g | £1.90 | £1.81 | |
| 251-500g | £2.40 | £2.30 | |
| 501-750g | £2.70 | £2.50 | |
| Small Parcel | 0-1kg | £4.25 | £4.25 |
| 1-2kg | £4.25 | £4.25 | |
| Medium Parcel | 0-1kg | £6.95 | £6.95 |
| 1-2kg | £6.95 | £6.95 | |
| 2-5kg | £8.75 | £8.75 | |
| 5-10kg | £8.75 | £8.75 | |
| 10-20kg | £13.15 | £13.15 | |
Download our Postage Rates 2026 PDF to view the prices a little more clearly.
Frequently asked questions
When do the 2026 Royal Mail postage rates start?
The new Royal Mail 2026 postage rates take effect from 7th April 2026. All UK franking machines must use the new prices from that date.
How much can I save by franking instead of using stamps in 2026?
Mailmark franking machines can save up to 13.33% compared with stamp prices on certain letter formats. For example, a First Class letter up to 100g costs £1.77 by Mailmark franking versus £1.80 by stamp.
Do I need to update my franking machine for the 2026 rates?
Yes. Mailmark machines receive automatic tariff updates, but if yours does not update or you are unsure, contact your franking machine supplier so the new rates are installed before 7th April 2026.
What is the cheapest way to send a First Class letter in 2026?
A Mailmark franking machine, at £1.77 for a letter up to 100g, is cheaper than the £1.80 stamp price.
Benefit from low cost franking ink
Top up your franking ink today with low cost franking machine inks and labels. View our range of franking ink here.