Send a card, gift or flowers online - without the post office queue
Sometimes it's easier to have a card or present posted for you. Here's how sending online compares with posting it yourself, and when each makes sense.
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Posting it yourself vs sending online
| Post it yourself | Send online | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Card + stamp (91p 2nd Class, £1.80 1st Class) | Usually more - the price includes the card, printing and postage |
| Effort | Buy a card and stamp, write it, find a postbox | A few minutes on your phone |
| Personal touch | Your own handwriting | Typed message; many cards can be personalised with names and photos |
| Best for | Cards you've already bought, bulk Christmas cards | Last-minute birthdays, sending from abroad, gifts and flowers |
When sending online makes sense
- You've remembered late. Order before the shop's daily cut-off and it's usually posted the same day.
- You don't have stamps or a printer, or the post office is closed.
- You want to add a gift or flowers without packing and posting a parcel yourself.
- You live abroad and want a card posted within the UK.
When posting it yourself is better
- You're sending lots of cards, such as at Christmas - a book of 2nd Class stamps is far cheaper. Work out the cost with our Christmas card calculator.
- You've already got the card - see how much it costs to post a birthday card.
- You're sending a parcel - use our postage calculator to find the cheapest service.
Frequently asked questions
Is it cheaper to post a card myself or send one online?
Posting it yourself is usually cheapest: a card plus a 2nd Class stamp (91p) or 1st Class stamp (£1.80). Online card shops cost more because the price includes printing and postage, but you save buying stamps and finding a postbox.
How quickly do cards ordered online arrive?
Most online card shops post the same day if you order early enough, usually by 1st Class. Check the cut-off time and delivery options on the shop's website before ordering.
Can I send a card online at Christmas after the last posting date?
Online shops need to post cards too, so Royal Mail's last posting dates still apply. Order a day or two before the 1st Class date to be safe. See our Christmas posting dates.