Postage Costs for Wedding Invites – Simple Ways to Keep Shipping Cheap
When you start planning a wedding, the invitation list can feel huge. The cost of mailing each card adds up fast, especially if you’re sending save‑the‑dates, RSVPs and thank‑you notes. Knowing exactly how to calculate postage and where to cut costs can keep your budget on track.
How to Calculate the Right Postage
First, weigh a sample envelope with a typical card inside. In the UK, a standard 100 g letter costs £1.10 with Royal Mail’s Royal Mail Tracked 24 service, but a plain first‑class letter under 100 g is just £1.07. If you’re using a padded envelope or a larger card, you’ll need to move to the 250 g band, which costs £1.70. Use a kitchen scale or a postal scale to get an accurate weight.
Next, count how many pieces you’ll send. Multiply the number of envelopes by the cost per band. Add a small buffer for any extra cards that might be heavier (think photos or extra inserts). This simple math gives you a solid baseline before you look for discounts.
Bulk Rates and Discounts
Royal Mail offers bulk discounts for businesses and large orders. If you’re sending more than 250 pieces, you can apply for a Business Mail account and get rates up to 20 % cheaper. The process takes a few days, so set up the account early in your planning.
Many printers include postage in their package deals. Ask your invitation supplier if they have a bulk mailing service. Some will handle the printing, addressing, and posting for you at a flat rate, which can be cheaper than doing everything yourself.
Smart Packaging Tricks
Use lightweight, recycled envelopes. A standard A5 envelope weighs about 12 g. If you add a thin card, you stay under 100 g for most invitations. Avoid bulky boxes unless you’re sending a cake topper or a big welcome gift.
Seal envelopes with a simple glue stick instead of tape. Tape adds weight and can push you into the next postage band. Also, print addresses directly onto the envelope or use a clear label to keep the surface smooth and light.
Alternative Delivery Methods
Digital save‑the‑dates are a fast way to cut out postage entirely. Email or a wedding website can share the date, venue and RSVP link. If you still want a physical reminder, send a small card that says “Details on our website – link inside.” This reduces the number of mailed pieces dramatically.
For thank‑you notes, consider a single batch of cards sent a few weeks after the big day. Grouping them saves on handling costs and lets you use the same postage band for all cards.
Final Tips to Keep Costs Low
Plan your mailing schedule early so you can order bulk postage in advance. Keep an eye on seasonal rate changes—postage often rises in January. Finally, track your spending in a simple spreadsheet: list item, weight, cost per piece, total. Seeing the numbers helps you spot where a small change (like switching to a lighter envelope) can save pounds.
By measuring properly, using bulk discounts, and being smart about packaging, you can keep postage costs low without sacrificing the look of your invitations. Your wedding budget will thank you, and your guests will still get beautiful cards that arrive on time.
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