Sending A Parcel To Post Office

[Cloverjo]

A few months ago, I sent a parcel to my son in London. He is usually out all day, so I sent it to his nearest PO to be collected by him. I remember filling in an online form with his email address so he could be told when it had arrived. I printed out the label with the Post Office address and his name on. This worked perfectly well, and I'd like to do it again, but I can't find the service online now. Does anyone know how to find it, or would it be ok to just send the parcel to the PO anyway with his name on?

[alavahalf]

I think this is what you are after ....

http://www.royalmail.com/business/services/sending/efficiency/local-collect

[Cloverjo]

Thanks, alavahalf, but that seems to be for online retailers, and requires setting up an account by phoning a help line and installing software. This will just be a one-off send. Im sure it was easier before. Thanks, anyway.

[alavahalf]

oops ... sorry .. what about this one ... http://www.royalmail.com/personal/receiving-mail/choose-local-collect

[EDDIE51]

Use CollectPlus it give you the option to send the parcel to a local shop where it can be collected. Cheaper than the post office and tracking and insurance are included free.
https://www.collectplus.co.uk/

[Cloverjo]

I think that's the same thing. Thanks again, though. I think I might phone the Local PO myself and ask if they'd be prepared to take it in if I sent it direct to them. It doesn't appear to be a regular service anymore.

[Cloverjo]

Thanks, Eddie. I think that would work.

[EDDIE51]

I use collectplusa lot as the drop off /receiving shop
(open 7.30am to10 pm 7 days a week) is just 50 yds from my door. Post Office is 2 miles away.

[Buenchico]

I also use CollectPlus, which enables you to choose between direct delivery to the recipient or delivery to a local collection point. I've found them to be totally reliable (and with better tracking than Royal Mail offers).

If you want to stick with Royal Mail though, you can send mail for collection in almost any Post Office in the world by labelling it 'Poste Restante':
http://www.postoffice.co.uk/mail/poste-restante