Underpaid Postage
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Guernsey Post charging for underpaid post?
Underpaid postage is a growing problem for us and each year we handle a significant number of items that don't have enough postage paid. It has become necessary to ensure that this lost revenue is recovered to ensure that all of its costs are covered.
What happens with local underpaid post?
Local underpaid items are held at our Forms Left Counter and an 'Underpaid Items' form is sent to the recipient. The recipient will then need to take the form to the Forms Left Counter, along with photographic I.D., to view the item. The item cannot be opened until the necessary payment has been made. If you chose not to accept the item we will hold the item for an additional 30 days before we destroy it.
What do I have to pay to receive my item?
We charge twice the difference of the postage plus a handling fee of £1.
Why do I have to pay to receive my item?
We receive a growing number of items each day that either have insufficient stamps to cover the postage or no stamps at all. The charges that we impose are necessary to cover the cost and handling of underpaid or unpaid items.
What happens with UK, Jersey and IOM underpaid post?
If you post an item, which has been underpaid, to these areas we will indicate on the item the necessary charges. These will be collected by the local delivery office from the recipient.
What happens with international underpaid post?
International items will be returned to the sender - this is why using a Return Address is so important. We will indicate on the item how much additional postage is required to successfully send the item.
Why are international items handled differently?
These items cost us the most to send and therefore the cost to us is significant. By sending the item back to the sender we hope to educate the sender of the importance of using the correct postage and therefore avoid any future reoccurances. It is also very difficult for the receiving post office to understand how much money to recover, as they will be using a different currency.
What happens if I am a local business?
If you are a local business sending a large number of underpaid items we will contact directly if you are using a Return Address. If you haven't included a Return Address then we will handle them using the processes mentioned above for local, UK, Jersey, IOM and international items.
I've received a yellow 'Underpaid Item' form, what do I do now?
Return the form to our Forms Left Counter at Envoy House and make sure you bring the appropriate photographic I.D..
If I come to see the item am I obliged to take it, is there a choice?
There is no obligation to take and pay for the item. You can view the item and decide whether you want to accept it. It is only when you chose to accept that we will charge you.
How long will you hold onto the item?
We hold all items for 90 days.
What if I am away, what happens then?
All items are held for 90 days. However, if you have a Keepsafe active then we will hold the item for 90 days after the Keepsafe expires.
Why should I use a Return Address?
All items should include a Return Address. It ensures that, if anything happens to the item, it can always be returned to you. Using a Return Address is particularly important if you are posting something internationally, as it will be returned to you if the postage has been underpaid. If you do not use a Return Address your item will be held for 90 days and then destroyed.
I regularly receive underpaid items, what can I do?
The best way to reduce the number of underpaid items is to contact the sender immediately and explain that they have sent you an underpaid item. It is only by you (the recipient) making them aware of the issue that is likely to make them take notice.