Question 1

What are your opening hours?

Accepted Answer

Hours vary by branch:

• Green Street (Forest Gate, E7) — Monday to Saturday 9am–8pm, Sunday 11am–5pm. Open on bank holidays.
• Queens Crescent (Kentish Town, NW5) — Monday to Friday 8:30am–6pm (with a lunch break 1pm–1:30pm), Saturday 9am–3pm. Closed Sundays.
• Leytonstone (E11) — Monday to Saturday 9am–6:30pm. Closed Sundays.

Green Street has the longest hours and is the only branch open on Sundays and bank holidays. Visit our branches page for maps and contact details.

Question 2

When is the quietest time to visit?

Accepted Answer

Weekday mornings between 9am and 11am are generally our quietest period across all branches. Friday afternoons and Saturday midday can get very busy. If you need to deal with something complex like a passport application or document certification, a mid-week morning visit is ideal.

Question 3

Are you open on bank holidays?

Accepted Answer

Our Green Street branch (Forest Gate, E7) is open every bank holiday as normal — same hours as any other day. Queens Crescent and Leytonstone are closed on most UK bank holidays. If you need to visit on a bank holiday, Green Street is your best option.

Question 4

Are you open on Sundays?

Accepted Answer

Our Green Street branch is open every Sunday from 11am to 5pm. Our other branches — Queens Crescent and Leytonstone — are both closed on Sundays. Full services are available at Green Street on Sundays: posting, banking, bill payments, travel money, and more.

Question 5

Do you close for lunch?

Accepted Answer

Most branches are open continuously with no lunch break. The exception is Queens Crescent, which closes for lunch every weekday Monday to Friday from 1pm to 1:30pm. Our other branches — Green Street and Leytonstone — provide continuous counter service throughout the day.

Question 6

What happens if I arrive just before closing time?

Accepted Answer

If you arrive before we close, we'll serve you. We don't turn customers away at the door before closing time. For more involved services like passport applications or document certification, arriving at least 30 minutes before close is sensible so there's no rush.

Question 7

Can I drop off DPD and Evri parcels here?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We're an official drop-off point for both DPD and Evri. If you have a pre-labelled parcel from either carrier, just hand it over at the counter and we'll take care of it. You'll receive a receipt as proof of drop-off.

Question 8

Can I send a parcel internationally?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We offer Royal Mail International Tracked and Signed, International Tracked, and International Standard. We can also help with Parcelforce for larger or heavier parcels. The right service depends on your budget and how quickly you need it to arrive — come in and we'll help you choose.

Question 9

What is Drop & Go?

Accepted Answer

Drop & Go is a Royal Mail account for regular senders. You pre-pay and pre-label your items, then drop them off at the counter without needing to queue for a full service transaction. It's particularly useful for small businesses and regular online sellers. Ask us in-branch for details.

Question 10

What's the cheapest way to send a large parcel?

Accepted Answer

For heavier or bulky items, Parcelforce Express or Royal Mail's large parcel options are usually the most cost-effective. Check our price list for a rough idea, then come in for an accurate quote based on the actual weight and dimensions.

Question 11

Do you sell packaging — boxes, padded bags, tape?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We stock a range of Royal Mail boxes and padded bags in various sizes, as well as packing tape. If you're unsure what size you need, bring your item in and we'll help you find the right packaging.

Question 12

What is Special Delivery and when should I use it?

Accepted Answer

Royal Mail Special Delivery Guaranteed is a next-day tracked service with delivery by 1pm. It comes with £750 compensation as standard (higher cover available up to £2,500) and requires a signature on delivery. Use it for anything valuable, urgent, or irreplaceable — legal documents, jewellery, or time-sensitive items.

Question 13

Do I need to fill in a customs form for international parcels?

Accepted Answer

Yes — any parcel leaving the UK needs a customs declaration (CN22 or CN23 depending on value). We'll complete this with you at the counter. You'll need to accurately describe the contents and declare their value. Don't undervalue items — it can cause delays or seizure at customs.

Question 14

Can I track my parcel after I've posted it?

Accepted Answer

Yes, if you use a tracked service (Royal Mail Tracked 24 or 48, Special Delivery, or International Tracked). Standard 1st and 2nd Class letters and parcels don't include tracking. You'll receive a tracking reference at the counter — use our Track page to look it up. Tracking usually activates within a few hours of drop-off.

Question 15

Have Royal Mail prices changed recently?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Royal Mail updated their online prices from 7 April 2026. Key changes include: Royal Mail Tracked 48 for a small parcel is now £3.65, Tracked 24 is £4.65, and both Tracked 24 and Tracked 48 are also available for large letters. See our price list for a full breakdown, or call into any of our branches for an exact price on your item.

Question 16

Can I send fragile or valuable items?

Accepted Answer

Yes. For fragile items, make sure they're well-packed with padding (we sell bubble wrap and boxes in-branch). For valuable items, we recommend Special Delivery for UK destinations, or International Tracked and Signed for overseas — both include compensation cover.

Question 17

Do you do passport photos?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We take compliant passport photos in-branch — printed and ready in minutes. Our photos meet all UK government requirements. If your photos are ever rejected by the Passport Office (which is rare), we'll retake them at no charge.

Question 18

What is the Check & Send service?

Accepted Answer

Check & Send is a Post Office service where a trained member of our team reviews your passport application — form, photos, and supporting documents — before it's submitted to HM Passport Office. We offer both the traditional paper format and the newer digital Check & Send. Applications submitted this way are less likely to be rejected, saving you weeks of delays.

Question 19

How long does a passport application take?

Accepted Answer

HM Passport Office typically processes standard applications within three weeks from receipt. During peak periods — especially spring and summer — this can extend to six to ten weeks. Don't leave it until the week before you travel. If you need a passport urgently, you can book a Fast Track or Online Premium appointment at a Passport Office directly.

Question 20

Can you help with a child's passport?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We handle first-time applications and renewals for children's passports. You'll need both parents' details and, for a first application, a countersignatory to confirm the child's identity. Children's passports are valid for five years. Bring all relevant documents and we'll walk you through the process.

Question 21

What is a countersignatory and do I need one?

Accepted Answer

A countersignatory is someone who can confirm your identity for a passport application — typically a professional (teacher, doctor, solicitor, etc.) who has known you for at least two years and holds a valid British or Irish passport. You need one for a first adult passport or a child's first passport. You don't need one for a standard adult renewal.

Question 22

Can you certify copies of documents?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We certify copies of passports, driving licences, birth and marriage certificates, bank statements, utility bills, and most other official documents. The certified copy is stamped and signed by a member of staff confirming it is a true copy of the original. Bring the original document and we can take a copy here if needed. Our fee is £5 per document.

Question 23

Do you handle SIA licence applications?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If you work or plan to work in the security industry, we can process SIA (Security Industry Authority) licence applications in-branch. Bring your ID documents and we'll guide you through the process.

Question 24

Can you verify my identity for a DBS check or savings account?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We're a registered in-branch ID verification service. This is useful for DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checks, savings account applications, and other processes that require formal identity confirmation. The organisation requesting your check will advise which documents to bring.

Question 25

Which banks can I use here?

Accepted Answer

We support everyday banking for most major UK banks, including Barclays, HSBC, Lloyds, NatWest, Santander, TSB, Halifax, Bank of Scotland, Co-operative Bank, Nationwide, and Yorkshire Bank. You can deposit cash and cheques, make withdrawals, and check your balance. Bring your bank card or paying-in slip.

Question 26

Can I deposit cash into my bank account here?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Bring your debit card or paying-in slip and we'll process your cash deposit over the counter. This service is available for most major UK banks. It's particularly useful now that many local bank branches have closed.

Question 27

Can I make a cash withdrawal here?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You can withdraw cash at the counter using your debit card and PIN at any of our branches — useful for larger amounts or if you prefer not to use an ATM. Green Street and Queens Crescent also have 24-hour ATMs located outside their entrances, available around the clock even when the branch is closed.

Question 28

Is there a cash machine at the branch?

Accepted Answer

Green Street (Forest Gate) and Queens Crescent (Kentish Town) both have 24-hour ATMs outside, available at all times. Leytonstone does not have an ATM on site, but cash withdrawals are available over the counter during opening hours.

Question 29

Can I send money internationally via Western Union?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We offer Western Union international money transfers at the counter. Funds are typically available for collection within minutes at the other end. You'll need valid photo ID and the recipient's full name and country. You do not need a bank account to send or receive via Western Union.

Question 30

Can a business deposit cash takings here?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We're experienced in handling business-volume cash deposits. If you regularly bring in cash takings, just come in during opening hours with your paying-in slip. No appointment needed — though mid-week mornings tend to be the least congested.

Question 31

Do you offer foreign currency exchange?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We stock a range of popular foreign currencies over the counter — including euros (EUR), US dollars (USD), UAE dirhams (AED), Pakistani rupees (PKR), Indian rupees (INR), Polish zloty (PLN), and Turkish lira (TRY). For less common currencies, it's worth calling ahead on 020 8471 4994 to check availability.

Question 32

Do I need to order currency in advance?

Accepted Answer

For the most popular currencies — euros, US dollars, and a handful of others — no, you can buy over the counter the same day. For less common currencies, we may need to order ahead. Call us to check before making the trip.

Question 33

What is the Post Office Travel Money Card?

Accepted Answer

It's a prepaid Mastercard that lets you load one or more foreign currencies before you travel. You can use it to spend abroad or withdraw cash at international ATMs. It locks in your exchange rate when you load it, which protects you against rate movements between now and your trip. If it's lost or stolen, your balance is protected.

Question 34

Is the Post Office a good place to buy currency compared to the airport?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Airport bureau de change rates are typically 5–15% worse than Post Office branch rates. Even a small difference in rate on a £1,000 exchange adds up to a real saving. We're open until 8pm Monday to Saturday, so you can pick up your currency the evening before you fly.

Question 35

Do you also sell travel insurance?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We offer Post Office Travel Insurance at the counter — both single-trip and annual multi-trip policies. Cover includes medical emergencies, trip cancellation, baggage loss, and more. No appointment needed. Check whether your existing bank account or credit card already provides travel insurance before purchasing a new policy.

Question 36

Can I renew my photocard driving licence here?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We process DVLA photocard driving licence renewals at the counter. You'll need your current licence, a valid UK passport (or a passport-style photo if you don't have one), and your National Insurance number. The renewal fee is currently £17. Your new licence typically arrives within two to three weeks.

Question 37

Can I apply for a provisional driving licence here?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We handle provisional licence applications in-branch. You'll need proof of identity (passport or equivalent) and your National Insurance number. The fee for a provisional car licence is currently £34.

Question 38

Can I update my address on my driving licence here?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You're legally required to update your address on your driving licence when you move. We process address changes at the counter at no charge. Bring your current licence and proof of your new address.

Question 39

Can I renew my vehicle tax (road tax) here?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Bring your V5C logbook (vehicle registration certificate) or the V11 renewal reminder letter from the DVLA, along with a valid MOT certificate and proof of insurance. We'll process the renewal at the counter and you'll receive confirmation on the spot. You can renew up to two months before the current tax expires.

Question 40

What bills can I pay at the counter?

Accepted Answer

Any bill with a barcode can usually be paid here — gas and electricity bills, water bills, council tax, TV Licence, parking fines, penalty charge notices, and some rent payments via housing associations. Show us the barcode (on paper or on your phone screen) and we'll scan and process it.

Question 41

Can I pay my council tax here?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Bring your council tax bill or a payment slip with a barcode and we'll process it over the counter. Cash and debit card are accepted. You'll receive a printed receipt as proof of payment.

Question 42

Can I top up my prepayment gas or electricity meter here?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Bring your prepayment meter key, card, or fob and the amount you'd like to top up. Top-ups are processed instantly and available from as little as £5. We support all major prepayment energy suppliers including British Gas, E.ON, EDF, and Scottish Power.

Question 43

Can I top up my mobile phone here?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We offer top-ups for all major UK mobile networks including EE, O2, Vodafone, Three, Giffgaff, Tesco Mobile, and iD Mobile. Just tell us your network and the amount.

Question 44

Can I pay with a credit card for bill payments?

Accepted Answer

No. Bill payments at the Post Office counter are accepted by cash or debit card only. Credit cards are not accepted for bill payments.

Question 45

Do I need to make an appointment for any service?

Accepted Answer

No appointments are needed for any service at any of our branches. Everything is walk-in. If you're planning something more involved — such as a passport application with multiple documents — a mid-week morning visit tends to be the most comfortable time.

Question 46

Do you have Wi-Fi in the branch?

Accepted Answer

Free Wi-Fi is available at Green Street. For Wi-Fi availability at other branches, ask a member of staff on arrival.

Question 47

Can I use the AI assistant on your website?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The chat button in the bottom-right corner of our website is an AI assistant that can answer questions about opening hours, services, postage prices, passport applications, and more — any time of day. Your conversation is saved during your session so you can pick up where you left off, and you can start a new chat or browse past conversations using the history button at any time. For anything complex or time-sensitive, always confirm with the branch directly.

Question 48

Is the branch wheelchair accessible?

Accepted Answer

All three of our branches have step-free access and wheelchair-accessible counters. Green Street and Queens Crescent also have accessible 24-hour ATMs outside. If you have any specific requirements before visiting, feel free to call ahead and the team will make sure everything is ready for you.

Question 49

Can I open a Post Office savings account here?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We can help you open a Post Office savings account at the counter, including completing your ID verification in-branch free of charge. Application forms are available at the counter. Our team will walk you through the process step by step.

Question 50

Do you have a photocopier or scanner I can use?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We can photocopy and scan documents in-branch. This is particularly useful when you need a copy for document certification or to keep a record before submitting important paperwork.

Questions we get asked every single day.

Opening Times

Posting & Parcels

Passports & Documents

Banking & Cash

Travel Money & Currency

Driving & Vehicle

Bill Payments & Top-Ups

General

Still not sure? Just ask us.