When you must send a letter or a parcel by express mail, ask the post office assistant for the cost by DataPost as well as by Special Delivery. DataPost promises next-day delivery to most locations, but it is expensive. If your deadline is not critical, consider sending your item by Special Delivery. It usually takes a day for the item to reach its destination, but the charges are much cheaper.
If you are sending important documents or valuable items in the post, send them by Registered Post. At least they will be insured if they are lost in transit. The post office is legally liable for loss, damage or delay only if the items are registered.
If a letter or parcel is lost or damaged, ask your local post office for an Enquiry form. Fill it in, take a copy, and send it to the local head postmaster. If you don't get a satisfactory reply, send it to the postal regional director. You can also raise a grievance with the local Post Office Advisory Committee (you will find the address in the front of the telephone directory).
The post office will refund the cost of stamps that have been damaged before being used.
Before you go on holiday, type addresses for postcards on gummed labels. You'll be more likely to send the promised cards.
A cigar box is perfect for sending small items. It is worth asking tobacconists if they have an old one they are prepared to give you at no cost, or ask friends who smoke to keep their empty cigarette packets for you.
