Postage Centre

1. Calculate your postage

   Buyers always want to know the total cost of what they're buying before they buy, so it is very important that you set the Postage and Packing costs properly when you list an item.

   First, you need to decide how to send your item: First or Second Class? Should it be signed for? Do you need insurance? Find out more about postage services on the Royal Mail and Parcelforce Worldwide sites.

   Next, automatically calculate your Royal Mail and Parcelforce Worldwide postage rates using a Postage Calculator:
   Royal Mail Postage Calculator

   Parcelforce Worldwide has simple, discounted rates available through Paypal:

   • Parcelforce 24 - £11.99 per parcel up to 30kg for next day UK delivery, £150 inclusive compensation cover, and tracked online with electronic signature. Or two day delivery through Parcelforce 48 for £10.99
   • International services are available ? with £1 off published prices; look for International Datapost and Global Priority; tracked to major destinations and inclusive of £150 compensation cover.

   For more details, check out the eBay page on the Parcelforce Worldwide site.

   Please bear in mind that sellers not permitted to charge excessive postage and packaging on eBay. Sellers who are found to be doing this may find their listings are ended or they are suspended from the site.

   Some specialist couriers may charge extra for delivery to certain parts of the UK, e.g. Northern Ireland and some parts of the Highlands and Islands. If you are using a specialist courier (e.g. for bulky items) and offering UK delivery, you should make buyers aware in your listing that extra delivery charges may apply to certain parts of the UK. You are not allowed to add the surcharge after the listing has completed.

2. Pack your item

   Make sure you pack your item well so that it won't be damaged in the post. You may want to pass a reasonable cost as compensation for quality packaging materials on to the buyer. Don't forget you can buy all your P&P supplies on eBay.

3. Print your postage from home
   

Save time by printing your postage at home. All you need is a computer, a printer, a Paypal account and some paper. The service is free (you pay the normal postage price through your PayPal account), and easy to use.
More information on this service.
Terms and Conditions apply.

Log in to PayPal - the service is only accessible if you have a PayPal account.
Create the postage label. Provide the weight, dimensions of the item and select the postal service you want to use. The postage rate will automatically be calculated for you. You will be able to purchase additional postal compensation on a range of Royal Mail postal and Parcelforce Worldwide Services. If customs declaration forms are needed, they will automatically be generated for you.
Print the postage label.
Post your item or request a collection if you are using Parcelforce Worldwide so you never have to leave your home or office. You will need to go to the Post Office® to pick up a tracking number for Royal Mail Recorded (Signed For), Special Delivery and Airsure packages.
4. Track your item
   Track your parcel online at royalmail.com or at parcelforce.com if applicable with the postage service you have selected.You can also track your parcel in My eBay or in the PayPal Account Overview.