NewsUK NewsRoyal Mail Ltd.Royal Mail has recently made a number of changes10:49, 04 Aug 2026Updated 10:52, 04 Aug 2026Royal Mail delivers billions of items to households across the UK every year, and the company recently announced several changes to its service.‌Second class items will now only be delivered on alternate days, while standard bulk business letters will move to a three-day delivery target, Royal Mail confirmed. First class post will continue to be delivered six days a week, with the overhaul designed to bring Royal Mail's service into the modern age.‌Royal Mail will also now aim to deliver 90% of first class letters the next day (previously 93%), and 95% of second class mail within three days (previously 98.5%).‌Most of us know the feeling of eagerly awaiting an important letter or parcel, only to miss its delivery because we've nipped out or failed to reach the door in time. Royal Mail uses a specific code - P739 - to flag a failed delivery attempt.If you receive a P739 card, you'll need to collect the item from the sorting office yourself, which could mean waiting until the following day depending on when you spot the card. In some circumstances, however, you may be able to arrange a redelivery instead.‌Royal Mail also continues to remind dog owners that "even the most lovable dog can be a danger to postal workers". Households with dogs are urged: "Please help us to deliver your post safely by keeping your dog secure and out of the way before the post person arrives."Dog owners are urged to ensure their pet is kept out of the way before the postal worker arrives, and to avoid opening the door with their dog standing behind them.Owners should also make certain that dogs cannot reach delivery staff when they call at the door – this may mean securing any access between the back and front garden and ensuring dogs in front gardens are safely contained.Article continues belowIt may be worth giving your dog food or a toy to keep them occupied while the post is being delivered. Keeping the dog in a separate room before answering the door is also advisable, and children should not be allowed to answer the door, as dogs can push past them and attack.Royal Mail guidance adds: "If your dog likes to attack your mail, consider installing a wire letter receptacle. It will protect your post, and your postman's or postwoman's fingers."If it's not practical for you to keep your dog away from a postman or postwoman delivering your mail, please consider fitting a secure mailbox on the edge of your property."Choose Daily Mirror as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.‌Royal Mail Ltd.AnimalsPost Office