An Post stamp and counter parcel prices rise from 3 February

The national stamp increase is 20 cent. It follows a 25 cent rise the previous February. For letters to Europe, including Britain, the increase is 85 cent.

The new Rest of World rate is €3.95, according to The Irish Post. Use the rate for your letter’s destination when budgeting for postage.

For example, buying 2 national stamps at the new rate costs €3.70, compared with €3.30 at the current rate. That adds 40 cent to the cost of posting those letters.

According to BreakingNews.ie, the services and products increasing from 3 February include:

• Meter post and most bulk mail rates.
• Stamp booklets, large envelopes and packets.
• Over-the-counter parcels and Registered Post.

If you sell goods and pay for parcels at the counter, review the postage cost included in your delivery charges before the change takes effect. Include Registered Post in that review if you use it.

Small businesses can still get parcel discounts through the An Post Advantage Card, according to the Irish Examiner. Use your discounted parcel rate when calculating postage for orders. You can also compare parcel prices for your parcel’s weight and destination.

Existing N and W stamps remain valid after 3 February, as do stamps showing euro values. Check your existing supply before buying more stamps for letters you plan to post.

Free delivery continues for letters and parcels up to 1kg posted to residents of nursing and care homes. If you are sending to a resident, check the weight of your parcel against that limit.