How to Redirect Mail When Moving House

Moving house comes with a list as long as your arm. Pack the kitchen, collect the keys, update your address… and make sure your post doesn’t keep turning up at your old home.

Setting up a mail redirect is a quick job, but an important one. It helps you avoid missing bank statements, medical letters and other important documents while giving you time to update everyone with your new details.

How to Redirect Mail to a New Address

The easiest way to redirect mail is through the Royal Mail Redirection service. You can apply online or complete an application by post or at a Post Office. You’ll need:

• The full address and postcode of your old and new homes
• The full names and dates of birth of everyone moving
• A valid credit or debit card registered at either address

Royal Mail recommends applying around three weeks before moving day, although it needs at least five working days to arrange the service. You can currently apply up to six months before your move or up to six months afterwards.

Yes, even if you’ve already moved and your post is currently enjoying its own little holiday at your old address, it isn’t too late.

How to Redirect Post for Everyone in Your Household 

Each person receiving post needs to be named on the application, even if everyone shares the same surname. There’s no additional fee for children under 16, but each adult is charged.

You can initially redirect post for 3, 6 or 12 months. This gives you time to update your address with your bank, employer, GP, utility providers, insurers, subscriptions and anyone else who regularly sends you post.

It’s still worth contacting these organisations directly. A Royal Mail redirect is a helpful safety net, rather than a permanent substitute for changing your details.

How Much Does It Cost to Redirect Mail?

The cost of redirecting your mail depends on how long you need the service, how many adults are included and whether your post is being redirected within the UK or overseas. At the time of writing, prices start from £45 for three months for one adult. Children under 16 can be added at no extra cost

As prices may change, check the Royal Mail website for the latest costs before applying. Reduced rates are available for eligible customers receiving Universal Credit or Pension Credit.

What Mail Can’t Be Redirected?

While most everyday post can follow you to your new home, there are a few exceptions. Royal Mail cannot redirect:

• Items addressed simply to ‘The Occupier’
• Post delivered by other couriers or delivery services
• Mail for anyone who didn’t live at your old address
• Certain government correspondence
• Mail sent from some shared accommodation, including hotels, hospitals and student halls

There are also restrictions on certain items being redirected overseas. If you’re unsure whether something is covered, check the Royal Mail Redirection guidance before applying.

Why Should You Set Up a Mail Redirect? 

Redirecting your post isn’t just about making sure birthday cards reach the right doormat. It can also help you:

1. Reduce the risk of identity fraud by keeping personal information out of the wrong hands
2. Avoid missing bills, appointment letters and other important documents
3. Give yourself time to update your address with banks, utility providers and other organisations
4. Enjoy a little extra peace of mind while you settle into your new home

Redirected mail may take a little longer to arrive as it travels via the delivery office serving your old address first, so bear this in mind if you’re expecting anything urgent.

Redirecting Mail to a New Build Home 

When moving into a new build, double-check that your full address and postcode are recognised before setting up your mail redirect. New addresses can sometimes take a little time to appear across every company’s system, so confirm the correct details with your developer first.

At Sky-House, our team will make sure you have the information you need ahead of moving day, leaving you with one less job to worry about.

Ready to Make Your Move?

Once your mail redirect is sorted, you can get back to the more enjoyable parts of moving in, like deciding where the sofa goes and discovering which box contains the mugs.

Still searching for the address you’ll soon call home? Explore our available Sky-House homes and discover thoughtfully designed, sustainable spaces made for modern living.