End of self-service in Post Offices, longer queues

GadgetGuru

My PO never had these, but we've just had a new post box installed outside for pre-labelled packages.

You press a button to activate the scanner - scan your barcode - and once it's verified the package it opens a tray for you to place the package into, and then close the tray for it to fall into the post box. There's a small camera also capturing everything, and you get the tracking update online to say its been dropped off.

Never used it yet TBH, but interesting concept……

Crumbum

I hope it works. It could really improve the service. But it sounds a bit vulnerable to misuse.

jon81uk

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/81987722#Comment_81987722

The new smart postboxes need the barcode to be scanned to prevent misuse, without scanning the barcode the slot is the same as the old postbox so only letters will fit. Scanning allows small parcels to fit.

But in general as Soolin says, just buy postage directly from Royal Mail now. I've stopped using Post Office, just buy on the Royal Mail website and print my own label, or scan the QR code at the sorting office for them to print it.

Pollycat

I take my Royal Mail parcels to my local post office which is also a Morrisons.

I enjoy the chat with the staff and whenever I have a parcel to pick up (RM, EVRI, DPD) they know what I've come for and get it ready for me.

Norphil

Many of the SSK machines are on their last legs and are being withdrawn because it is not possible to repair them. See the 2026 reports of my readers here.

https://blog.norphil.co.uk/2026/01/post-go-and-self-service-kiosk-news-for.html

There ares similar reports in a 2025 and earlier posts.

Norphil

Post Office Ltd is, of course, government owned - but they need to keep costs down so they have outsourced. It's a poor state for public services.

TimeLord1

TG Jones is shutting lots of locations, regardless if they have a post office in them mass debt apparently not surprising, but the new contract they negotiated with WHSmiths stopped the post office from carrying on inside the location if they leave. 60 locations currently closing down.

Pollycat

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/82145954#Comment_82145954

Including the one in my bigger town.

Will still use my local post office as they are really friendly and I use them for DPD/Evri/Royal Mail parcels for purchases.

TimeLord1

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/82145969#Comment_82145969

Yes I believe all are main town post offices and councils although warned but sat back and made no backup plans. Now scrambling around trying to find a new host that can handle the staff also. But the 60 is just main Post Offices, quite a lot going as just shops also. Local ones are ok but they won't cover certain things.

NBLondon

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/82008681#Comment_82008681

The hybrid postboxes require A valid barcode to open the hatch. You can re-use one that's been posted to you - or a barcoded stamp will work (I tested with a Large Letter 1st).